率先

shuàixiān

to take the lead

HSK 6

漢字分解

Meaning and Usage

The word 率先 (shuàixiān) means to take the lead or to act first in doing something. It often implies a positive initiative where someone or a group sets an example by being the first to act.

Common Contexts

It is frequently used in contexts such as leadership, innovation, social activities, or any situation where leading by example is important. For example, a person might 率先提出 (take the lead in proposing) an idea, or a company might 率先采用 (be the first to adopt) new technology.

Collocations and Patterns

These collocations emphasize the proactive and leading role of the subject.

Nuances

Using 率先 highlights not just being first in time but also the responsibility and courage to lead others. It is more formal and positive than simply saying 'first'. Avoid confusing it with (xiān) alone, which only indicates temporal order without the leadership nuance.

例文

他在项目中率先提出了创新的想法。

Tā zài xiàngmù zhōng shuàixiān tíchūle chuàngxīn de xiǎngfǎ.

He took the lead in proposing innovative ideas in the project.

在环保活动中,我们应该率先行动,带动更多人参与。

Zài huánbǎo huódòng zhōng, wǒmen yīnggāi shuàixiān xíngdòng, dàidòng

In environmental protection activities, we should take the initiative and

公司率先采用了最新的技术,提升了生产效率。

Gōngsī shuàixiān cǎiyòngle zuìxīn de jìshù, tíshēngle shēngchǎn xiàolǜ.

The company was the first to adopt the latest technology, improving