把柄

bǎ bǐng

CL 个 gè

HSK 3.0 Level 7 Noun Uncommon

Definitions

1. handle
2. (fig.) information that can be used against sb

Word relationships

Related words

4 items

• 把子 bà zi 把子 bà zi handle tool or object handle: handle
• 抓手 zhuā shǒu 抓手 zhuā shǒu starting point handle or handhold: starting point
• 弱点 ruò diǎn 弱点 ruò diǎn weak point weakness usable against someone: weak point
• 把持 bǎ chí 把持 bǎ chí to control control or grasp (fig.): to control

Usage notes

Common mistakes

把柄 in the figurative sense is typically used with verbs like 抓 (to grab) or 留 (to leave), forming phrases such as 抓把柄 or 留把柄, meaning to have leverage over someone.

Cultural notes

The concept of 把柄 is deeply embedded in Chinese social dynamics, often implying a hidden piece of information that can be exploited for personal gain or coercion.

Example Sentences

1 shown

他抓住了我的 把柄 ，让我不得不听他的。

He got something on me, forcing me to obey him.

AI-generated examples are marked with this icon.

Child Words of 把柄

• 把 把 bǎ: handlebar
• 把 把 bà: handle
• 柄 柄 bǐng: handle or shaft (of an axe etc)