支柱

• Pinyin: zhī zhù
• Hanzi breakdown: 支 = 十 + 又 (branch — support); 柱 = 木 + 主 (wooden pillar)

Meaning

A pillar; a mainstay. Something or someone that provides crucial support, whether physical, economic, or emotional.

Used both literally (architectural pillars) and figuratively (支柱产业 — pillar industry, 精神支柱 — spiritual pillar). Implies indispensable, foundational importance.

Examples

1. 制造业是该地区经济发展的重要支柱。 Manufacturing is a key pillar of the region’s economic development.
2. 父亲一直是这个家庭的精神支柱，支撑着全家度过难关。 His father has always been the family’s emotional anchor, carrying everyone through hard times.
3. 这几根石柱是整座建筑的主要承重支柱。 These stone pillars are the building’s main load-bearing supports.

Usage Guide

Context: economics, family, architecture

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 旅游业已成为许多国家的支柱产业。(Tourism has become a pillar industry for many countries.)
• 她是团队的核心支柱，大家都信赖她的判断。(She is the core pillar of the team — everyone trusts her judgement.)

Don't Say

• 他是我的小支柱 — 支柱 implies major, fundamental support; for minor help, use 帮手 or 助力

Origin & History

支 (support/prop up) + 柱 (pillar/column)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal