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March 24, 2026
钻空子(鑽空子)zuānkòngzi(zuan1kong4zi5)
The phrase 钻空子 (zuān kòng zi) literally translates to 'drill a hole', but it is commonly used to describe the act of exploiting a loophole or taking advantage of a situation, often in a negative or unethical context. It suggests a clever or cunning maneuver to benefit oneself, particularly when the action is considered morally dubious.
Frequency#36033DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 'face' (面子, miànzi) is very important, and exploiting opportunities unethically can lead to loss of face. Thus, while some might see 钻空子 as clever, it can also lead to social repercussions.
Memory Tip
Imagine a clever mouse (the character 钻, zuān) drilling a tiny hole (空子, kòng zi) in a wall to sneak into a pantry full of cheese. This visual helps you remember that 钻空子 involves sneaking in or exploiting an opportunity, often in a crafty way.
Meanings of 钻空子
zuānkòngzi(zuan1kong4zi5)
1lit. to drill a hole
2to take advantage of a loophole
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About 钻空子
钻空子Simplified
鑽空子Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 钻空子
Podcast: 钻空子
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AI Study Notes for 钻空子
Quick Contrast
利用漏洞 (lìyòng lòudòng) — choose 钻空子 when emphasizing cunning or unethical exploitation, while 利用漏洞 focuses more on practical use of loopholes.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a clever mouse (the character 钻, zuān) drilling a tiny hole (空子, kòng zi) in a wall to sneak into a pantry full of cheese. This visual helps you remember that 钻空子 involves sneaking in or exploiting an opportunity, often in a crafty way.
Usage Notes
This phrase is typically used in informal contexts and can carry a negative connotation. A common mistake is to use it in situations where someone is genuinely taking an opportunity without malice; instead, it should be reserved for cases of exploitation or unethical advantage-taking.
HSK Study Tips
Although 钻空子 isn't part of the official HSK vocabulary, it connects with themes of strategy and negotiation found in HSK Level 4. Students should focus on understanding the nuances of exploiting situations and how it relates to discussions about ethics in business or personal contexts.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 'face' (面子, miànzi) is very important, and exploiting opportunities unethically can lead to loss of face. Thus, while some might see 钻空子 as clever, it can also lead to social repercussions.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 钻空子 with more neutral terms for 'seizing an opportunity'. For example, saying '他在工作中钻空子' (He is taking opportunities in work) can imply a positive action, while it should indicate unethical behavior. Use it in contexts where exploitation is clear.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 钻空子
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Cultural Notes for 钻空子
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 'face' (面子, miànzi) is very important, and exploiting opportunities unethically can lead to loss of face. Thus, while some might see 钻空子 as clever, it can also lead to social repercussions.
Frequently Asked Questions about 钻空子
Yes, it typically carries a negative connotation, suggesting unethical exploitation.
Yes, it is often used to describe actions that exploit loopholes in contracts or regulations.
It translates to 'drill a hole', but metaphorically refers to taking advantage of a situation.
