斩

• Pinyin: zhǎn
• Hanzi breakdown: 斩 = 车 (cart) + 斤 (axe) — cutting decisively

Meaning

To chop; to behead; to cut down. To sever with a blade in a decisive manner.

Historically used for executions: 斩首 (beheading). Now commonly used figuratively: 斩断 (to sever completely), 斩草除根 (to eradicate completely), 斩钉截铁 (resolute and decisive). In gaming: 斩杀 (to slay).

Examples

1. 古代对于谋反者的刑罚往往是斩首示众。 In ancient times, the punishment for rebels was often beheading and putting the head on public display.
2. 他决心斩断与过去的一切联系，开始全新的生活。 He made up his mind to cut off all ties with the past and start a brand-new life.
3. 领导表态斩钉截铁，绝不姑息任何违规行为。 The leader stated firmly and unequivocally that no violations would be tolerated.

Usage Guide

Context: history, decisive action, gaming

Tone: strong/decisive

Do Say

• 遇到问题要斩钉截铁地做出决定，不要犹豫不决。(When facing problems, make decisions resolutely without hesitation.)
• 想要彻底解决这个隐患，必须斩草除根。(To completely eliminate this hidden danger, you must eradicate it at the root.)

Don't Say

• 斩菜 for chopping vegetables — use 切 or 剁 for kitchen cutting; 斩 implies heavier, more violent action

Origin & History

车 (cart/wheel) + 斤 (axe) — to cut with an axe

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal