归宿

guīsù

place to return to

HSK 7

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"归宿" refers to a place where one ultimately settles down or finds rest, often implying a sense of emotional or spiritual belonging rather than just a physical location. It can describe a home, a city, or even an abstract concept like a state of mind.

Common Collocations

  • 心灵归宿 (spiritual home): emphasizes emotional comfort and belonging.
  • 最后归宿 (final resting place): often used metaphorically for where one ends up in life.
  • 归宿 (home is the place to return): highlights the idea of home as a safe haven.

Usage Notes

"归宿" is often used in a poetic or sentimental context, expressing deep feelings about belonging and stability. It is more formal and literary than simply saying "" (home). Avoid confusing it with "" which means "to go home"; "归宿" focuses on the destination or state of settling.

Tone and Register

The word carries a warm, reflective tone and is suitable for both spoken and written Chinese, especially in emotional or philosophical discussions about life and belonging.

Example Sentences

他终于找到了心灵的归宿。

Tā zhōngyú zhǎodào le xīnlíng de guīsù.

He finally found a spiritual home.

这座城市成了他们的归宿。

Zhè zuò chéngshì chéng le tāmen de guīsù.

This city became their final home.

无论走到哪里,家永远是归宿。

Wúlùn zǒu dào nǎlǐ, jiā yǒngyuǎn shì guīsù.

No matter where you go, home is always the place to return to.