靶子

• Pinyin: bǎ zi
• Hanzi breakdown: 靶 = 革 (leather) + 巴 (phonetic); 子 = noun suffix

Meaning

Target (for shooting); something or someone used as a target for criticism.

Literally a shooting target. Figuratively used for someone who becomes a target of criticism, attack, or blame. The figurative use is common in political and social contexts.

Examples

1. 射击场上摆着一排靶子，每个距离不同。 A row of targets is set up at the shooting range, each at different distances.
2. 他总是成为媒体攻击的靶子，习惯了被批评。 He's always a target for media attacks — he's used to being criticized.
3. 别把自己当靶子，不必每条评论都回应。 Don't make yourself a target — you don't need to respond to every comment.

Usage Guide

Context: sports, criticism

Tone: descriptive

Do Say

• 他成了众人攻击的靶子。(He became everyone's target.)
• 瞄准靶子射击。(Aim at the target and shoot.)

Don't Say

• 把目标(goal)说成'靶子' (Don't use 靶子 for abstract goals — it's for physical or criticism targets)

Origin & History

靶 (target) + 子 (noun suffix). 靶 is composed of 革 (leather) + 巴 (phonetic).

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal