锉 (cuò) - File (tool) & to file/smooth down

锉Tone 4

cuò ｜ 12 strokes ｜ radical:

橙丁

锉 · cuò

File (tool);

to file/smooth down;

to reduce/weaken;

to frustrate/discourage;

disappointment/setback.

File (tool)to file/smooth downto reduce/weaken

Usage highlights

FileTo file/smoothTo weaken/diminishSetback/frustrationTo挫败挫锐气

Synonyms

Antonyms

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • He used a metal file to smooth the rough edge (用锉刀锉平粗糙的边缘).
  • The setback did not diminish his enthusiasm (挫折没有挫伤他的热情).
  • She filed her nails with an emery board (她用指甲锉修指甲).
  • The team suffered a demoralizing defeat (队伍遭受了挫败).

Collocations

  • File (tool)(锉刀)
  • To file/smooth(锉平)
  • To weaken/diminish(挫伤)
  • Setback/frustration(挫折)
  • frustrate/defeat(To挫败)
  • dampen morale(挫锐气)

Idioms

  • Severe punishment or utter destruction(挫骨扬灰)
  • To blunt the enemy's edge(挫其锐气)
  • To suffer repeated setbacks(屡遭挫折)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Originally a metalworking tool for shaping and smoothing surfaces.
  • Extended metaphorically to describe psychological setbacks, frustrations, or weakening of spirit.
  • The character appears in idioms describing both physical filing actions and emotional discouragement.

FAQ