主体

• Pinyin: zhǔ tǐ
• Hanzi breakdown: 主 = lamp with flame (master); 体 = 亻(person) + 本 (root) — body, structure

Meaning

Main body; subject; principal part. Refers to the core or essential part of something, or the main agent in a situation.

Used in philosophy, law, architecture, and general contexts. In philosophy, it refers to the 'subject' as opposed to 'object.' In architecture, it refers to the main structure of a building.

Examples

1. 这座建筑的主体结构已经完工了。 The main structure of this building has been completed.
2. 学生是课堂学习的主体。 Students are the main agents in classroom learning.
3. 报告的主体内容是关于环境保护的。 The main content of the report is about environmental protection.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, architecture, law

Tone: technical

Do Say

• 合同的主体是双方当事人。(The subjects of the contract are the two parties involved.)
• 大楼的主体工程预计明年竣工。(The main structure of the building is expected to be completed next year.)

Don't Say

• 说'饭的主体是米' (Don't use 主体 for simple food components — use 主要成分 or just say 主要是 instead)

Origin & History

主 (main, primary) + 体 (body, structure). Together they mean the main body or primary component.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal