B1 noun, adjective Neutral

核心

/xɤ˧˥ ɕin˥/

The central or most important part of something. In academic contexts, it refers to the primary argument or essence.

Examples

3 of 5
1

这个苹果的核儿不能吃。

The core of this apple isn't edible. (Literal use of 核)

2

我们要加强核心竞争力。

We must strengthen our core competitiveness.

3

问题的核心是你没说实话。

The core of the problem is that you didn't tell the truth.

Word Family

Noun
核心
Adjective
核心的
💡

Memory Tip

核 (pit/seed) + 心 (heart) = the heart of the seed.

Quick Quiz

创新的___是人才。

Correct!

The correct answer is: 核心

Examples

1

这个苹果的核儿不能吃。

everyday

The core of this apple isn't edible. (Literal use of 核)

2

我们要加强核心竞争力。

formal

We must strengthen our core competitiveness.

3

问题的核心是你没说实话。

informal

The core of the problem is that you didn't tell the truth.

4

作者在文章的核心论点中提到...

academic

The author mentioned in the core argument of the article...

5

核心员工是公司的财富。

business

Core employees are the company's wealth.

Word Family

Noun
核心
Adjective
核心的

Common Collocations

核心问题 core issue
核心价值 core values
核心成员 core member
核心技术 core technology
核心内容 core content

Common Phrases

核心家庭

nuclear family

核心期刊

core journal

地核

Earth's core

Often Confused With

核心 vs 中心

中心 is 'center' (geographical or general); 核心 is 'core' (implies essential essence).

📝

Usage Notes

Often used to describe the most vital part of a system or argument.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Don't use it for just any 'middle' point; use it for the 'most important' point.

💡

Memory Tip

核 (pit/seed) + 心 (heart) = the heart of the seed.

📖

Word Origin

From '核' (pit/nucleus) and '心' (heart/center).

Grammar Patterns

S + 的核心是... 核心 + Noun

Quick Quiz

创新的___是人才。

Correct!

The correct answer is: 核心

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