出路

chūlù

a way out (lit. and fig.)

HSK 7

漢字分解

Meaning and Usage

"出路" literally means "exit road" or "way out," and it is commonly used both in a literal sense (an actual exit or path) and figuratively (a solution or way to overcome difficulties).

Common Contexts

It often appears in contexts involving problem-solving, business challenges, or personal dilemmas where someone is seeking a solution or escape from a difficult situation.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 出路 (where is the way out): used when asking for a literal or figurative exit.
  • 寻找出路 (to look for a way out): common phrase for seeking solutions.
  • 唯一出路 (the only way out): emphasizes exclusivity of the solution or exit.

Usage Notes

When using 出路 figuratively, it implies hope or possibility of overcoming a problem. It is more formal and often used in written or semi-formal spoken Chinese. Avoid confusing 出路 with 出口, which strictly means a physical exit or exit sign.

Summary

Use 出路 to talk about both physical exits and metaphorical solutions. It is a versatile noun that helps express the idea of finding a path forward in difficult circumstances.

例文

面对困境,他终于找到了出路。

Miànduì kùnjìng, tā zhōngyú zhǎodào le chūlù.

Facing difficulties, he finally found a way out.

经济不景气让很多企业寻找新的出路。

Jīngjì bù jǐngqì ràng hěn duō qǐyè xúnzhǎo xīn de chūlù.

The economic downturn has made many companies look for new ways out.

这条小路是通向山外的唯一出路。

Zhè tiáo xiǎolù shì tōng xiàng shān wài de wéiyī chūlù.

This small path is the only exit leading outside the mountain.