指出

• Pinyin: zhǐ chū
• Hanzi breakdown: 指 = 扌(hand) + 旨 (purpose); 出 = depicts a foot stepping out of an enclosure

Meaning

Point out; indicate. To explicitly identify or call attention to something, especially a problem, error, or important point.

Used when someone explicitly identifies or draws attention to something, often a problem, mistake, or important observation. Slightly more formal than casual criticism, carrying a tone of authority or helpfulness. Commonly used in academic, professional, and official contexts. Often followed by a clause describing what was pointed out.

Examples

1. 老师指出了我作文里的几个错误。 The teacher pointed out several mistakes in my essay.
2. 她指出这个方案还需要改进。 She pointed out that this plan still needs improvement.
3. 专家指出运动对健康很重要。 Experts point out that exercise is very important for health.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, professional, feedback

Tone: direct

Do Say

• 他指出了报告中的问题。(He pointed out the problems in the report.)
• 请指出我哪里做错了。(Please point out where I went wrong.)

Don't Say

• 他指出了窗外。(Don't use 指出 for physically pointing — use 指向 or 指着; 指出 is for abstract 'pointing out' of ideas or problems)

Origin & History

指 (point) + 出 (out). Literally 'to point out,' meaning to call attention to something specific.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal