主宰

• Pinyin: zhǔ zǎi
• Hanzi breakdown: 主 = 丶 + 王 (master); 宰 = 宀 + 辛 (to rule, minister)

Meaning

To dominate; to control; master; ruler. To have supreme power over something or someone.

As a verb, means to control or determine outcomes. As a noun, refers to the supreme controller or ruler. Often used in contexts of fate, power, or cosmic control. Carries a sense of absolute authority.

Examples

1. 他希望能主宰自己的命运。 He hopes to control his own destiny.
2. 科技巨头主宰着互联网市场。 Tech giants dominate the internet market.
3. 人类不应该试图充当自然的主宰。 Humans should not try to play the master of nature.

Usage Guide

Context: philosophy, business, literary

Tone: powerful

Do Say

• 每个人都有权主宰自己的人生。(Everyone has the right to control their own life.)
• 这家公司主宰了全球芯片市场。(This company dominates the global chip market.)

Don't Say

• 我主宰晚餐吃什么 — too grandiose; use 决定 for everyday decisions

Origin & History

主 (master, main) + 宰 (to slaughter, to rule)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal