Definition
出发点 (chūfādiǎn) is a versatile noun meaning 'starting point' — both literally (a trip) and figuratively (the basis of an argument or the motive behind an action). It differs from 起点 (qǐdiǎn), which is a more neutral 'starting point' without the connotation of purpose; and from 动机 (dòngjī), which specifically refers to the inner motive or reason, while 出发点 can also imply the broader foundation or intention.
noun
starting point (literal, e.g. of a trip)(figurative) basisfoundation (of an argument, theory, etc.)(figurative) motiveintention (the reason for doing something)
Examples
- ，出发点。Cóng Shànghǎi dào Běijīng de huǒchē, chū fā diǎn shì Shànghǎi.The starting point of the train from Shanghai to Beijing is Shanghai.
- 出发点。Tā de yánjiū chū fā diǎn shì kēxué shùjù.The basis of his research is scientific data.
- 出发点。Nǐ bìxū liǎojiě tā xíngdòng de shíjì chū fā diǎn.You must understand the actual motive behind his actions.
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