Definition
担子 (dàn zi) refers to a carrying pole with loads on both ends, a traditional way to carry goods. Figuratively, it means a heavy responsibility or task one must bear — stronger and more concrete than 负担 (fù dān 'burden'), and unlike 包袱 (bāo fu 'mental burden'), 担子 often implies a duty or assignment. It also differs from 担 (dàn), which is a classifier or the load itself, not the whole setup.
noun
carrying pole with loads on both ends (a traditional way to carry goods)(noun, figurative) burdenresponsibilityor task that one must bear
Measure word · 副
Examples
- 担子。Tā yòng dàn zi tiāo zhe liǎng kuāng shuǐguǒ.He used a carrying pole to carry two baskets of fruit.
- 担子。Zhège dàn zi duì tā lái shuō tài zhòng le.This burden is too heavy for him.
- ，担子。Zuòwéi jīnglǐ, tā jiānfù zhe hěn dà de dàn zi.As a manager, he bears a great responsibility.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.