绪 (xù) - Thread & clue

绪Tone 4

xù ｜ 11 strokes ｜ radical:

信嫣

绪 · xù

Thread;

clue;

mental state;

beginning;

end (as in 头绪);

often used metaphorically for thoughts, emotions, or the start of something.

Threadcluemental state

Usage highlights

EmotionThoughtsClueBeginningWork preparationMental state

Synonyms

  • 端— Beginning; start
  • 线— Thread; line
  • 情— Feeling; emotion

Antonyms

  • 乱— Chaos; disorder
  • 末— End; conclusion

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • I have no clue about this matter (对这件事没有头绪).
  • She is in a low mood (情绪低落).
  • We need to prepare for the start of the work (准备工作绪).
  • He is organizing his thoughts (理清思绪).

Collocations

  • Emotion(情绪)
  • Thoughts(思绪)
  • Clue(头绪)
  • Beginning(端绪)
  • Work preparation(工作绪)
  • Mental state(心绪)

Idioms

  • All clues lead to the same point(千头万绪)
  • In low spirits(情绪低落)
  • A complete mess(茫无头绪)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Derived from the meaning of 'silk thread end', used metaphorically for the beginning or clue of things.
  • In traditional Chinese thought, '绪' is often associated with the order and logic of thinking.
  • Commonly used in modern psychology and literature to describe emotional states.

FAQ