Meaning and Usage
The character 局 (jú) primarily refers to an office or bureau, such as a government agency or department. It also commonly denotes a specific stage or phase in a process or event, especially in competitions or situations, where it means 'a situation' or 'a phase.' Additionally, it can refer to a physical place like a post office.
Common Collocations
- 公安局 (gōng'ān jú): Public Security Bureau, a government office responsible for police affairs.
- 邮局 (yóujú): post office, a place to send and receive mail.
- 关键局面 (guānjiàn júmiàn): critical situation or turning point, often used in sports or negotiations.
Usage Notes
When 局 refers to an office, it usually implies an official or administrative function. When used to describe a situation or phase (局面), it highlights a particular stage that is important or decisive. This word is formal and often appears in news reports, official documents, or formal speech.
Common Confusions
Don't confuse 局 with 局部 (júbù), which means 'local' or 'partial.' 局 alone is more about an entire office or a whole phase, not a part of something.
Summary
Use 局 when talking about official bureaus, departments, or when describing a significant phase or situation in an event. It is a versatile word that appears in both administrative and figurative contexts.