Definition
中心 (zhōngxīn) is the most general word for 'center' — it can mean the physical middle of an area, the core of an issue, or an institution (research center). 中央 (zhōngyāng) is more formal and often refers to the exact middle of a large area or the central government; 核心 (héxīn) emphasizes the 'nucleus' or most essential part, like the core of a problem or team.
noun
center (of a place or area)core (of an issue or problem)center (institution, e.g., research center, shopping center)
Measure word · 个
Easily confused
- 忠心zhōng xīnsound-alikeloyalty, devotion, faithfulness
- 衷心zhōng xīnsound-alikeheartfelt; wholehearted; cordial
- 重心zhòng xīnsound-alikecenter of gravity (physics)
Examples
- 中心。Zhège guǎngchǎng zài chéngshì de zhōng xīn.This square is in the center of the city.
- 中心。Wǒmen yào zhuāzhù wèntí de zhōng xīn.We need to grasp the core of the problem.
- 中心。Tā zài yì jiā yánjiū zhōng xīn gōngzuò.She works at a research center.
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