突破

• Pinyin: tū pò
• Hanzi breakdown: 突 = 穴 (cave) + 犬 (dog), sudden/rush; 破 = 石 (stone) + 皮 (skin), to break

Meaning

To break through; to make a breakthrough; a breakthrough or advance.

Can be used as verb or noun. Describes overcoming barriers, limits, or obstacles. Common in contexts of scientific discovery, personal growth, sports achievements, and business innovation. Implies a significant advance beyond previous boundaries. A very positive and dynamic word.

Examples

1. 科学家们在癌症治疗方面取得了重大突破。 Scientists have made a major breakthrough in cancer treatment.
2. 他终于突破了自己的心理障碍，勇敢地站上了舞台。 He finally broke through his psychological barriers and bravely stepped onto the stage.
3. 今年公司销售额首次突破一亿元。 This year the company's sales exceeded 100 million yuan for the first time.

Usage Guide

Context: science, business, personal development, sports

Tone: dynamic

Do Say

• 技术突破。(Technological breakthrough.)
• 突破自我。(Break through your limits.)

Don't Say

• 突破门 for breaking down a door — use 撞开 or 破门; 突破 is for abstract barriers, not physical doors

Origin & History

Compound of 突 (sudden/to rush) + 破 (break), meaning to suddenly break through.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal