柱子

• Pinyin: zhù zi
• Hanzi breakdown: 柱 = 木 (wood) + 主 (phonetic); 子 is a common noun suffix

Meaning

Pillar; column; post; a vertical structural element that supports a building or structure.

Refers to vertical supports in architecture, from traditional wooden pillars in Chinese temples to modern concrete columns. Often used metaphorically to describe someone who is a pillar of support for a family, organization, or cause.

Examples

1. 这座古庙的柱子上雕刻着精美的龙纹，据说已有五百年历史。 The pillars of this ancient temple are carved with exquisite dragon patterns, said to be five hundred years old.
2. 他一直是家里的顶梁柱子，父母和妹妹都依赖他的收入生活。 He has always been the pillar of the family — his parents and sister all depend on his income.
3. 地震过后，这栋楼的几根承重柱子出现了裂缝，需要紧急加固。 After the earthquake, several load-bearing columns of this building showed cracks and need urgent reinforcement.

Usage Guide

Context: architecture, construction, everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 这根柱子是大理石做的。(This pillar is made of marble.)
• 他是我们团队的柱子。(He is the pillar of our team.)

Don't Say

• 把东西靠在柱子旁边。(Awkward phrasing — better to say 把东西靠在柱子上)

Origin & History

Compound of 柱 (pillar, column) and 子 (noun suffix). 柱 contains the 木 (wood) radical, reflecting traditional wooden construction.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal