出路

• Pinyin: chū lù
• Hanzi breakdown: 出 = 凵 (container) + 屮 (sprout), to go out; 路 = 足 (foot) + 各 (each), road/path

Meaning

Way out; outlet; future prospects. A path forward or solution to a situation.

Can refer to a literal exit/path out, but more commonly used metaphorically for solutions to problems, career prospects, or ways to escape difficult situations. Often appears in discussions about personal development, career choices, or problem-solving.

Examples

1. 他觉得留在小镇没有出路，决定去大城市闯一闯。 He felt there was no future in staying in the small town and decided to try his luck in a big city.
2. 传统行业必须转型升级才能找到新的出路。 Traditional industries must transform and upgrade to find a new way forward.
3. 面对困境，我们总能找到出路。 Facing difficulties, we can always find a way out.

Usage Guide

Context: career, problem-solving, everyday

Tone: hopeful or anxious

Do Say

• 你觉得这个专业有出路吗？(Do you think this major has good prospects?)
• 他正在寻找新的出路。(He's looking for a new way forward.)

Don't Say

• 具体的路线用'出口'或'通道'，'出路'多指抽象的前途 (For a specific route, use 出口 or 通道; 出路 usually refers to abstract prospects or solutions)

Origin & History

Combines 出 (to go out) with 路 (road/path), meaning a path that leads out — either literally or figuratively.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal