陣 (zhèn) - battle formation & array

陣Tone 4

zhèn ｜ 9 strokes ｜ radical:

丈志

陣 · zhèn

battle formation;

array;

position;

front;

a period of time;

measure word for events or states.

battle formationarrayposition

Usage highlights

battle formationfront linearray of troopsmoment of dizzinessthunderclapbreak the enemy formation

Synonyms

  • 列— row; line; array
  • 队— team; line; formation

Antonyms

  • 散— scatter; disperse (opposite of forming an array)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The army formed a battle formation (阵形).
  • He was in a difficult situation (处于困境).
  • A gust of wind blew (一阵风吹过).
  • The enemy lines broke (敌军阵线崩溃).

Collocations

  • battle formation(阵形)
  • front line(阵线)
  • array of troops(阵列)
  • moment of dizziness(一阵头晕)
  • thunderclap(一阵雷声)
  • break the enemy formation(破阵)

Idioms

  • A formidable array(严阵以待)
  • Break through the enemy's line(冲锋陷阵)
  • A well-laid-out plan(摆龙门阵)
  • A sudden burst of activity(一阵风)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Originates from military terminology, referring to tactical deployments in ancient Chinese warfare.
  • Used metaphorically to describe situations, periods of time, or sudden occurrences.
  • Common in historical and wuxia (martial arts) contexts, symbolizing strategy and confrontation.

FAQ