noun HSK 5
xué wèi
acupuncture point · acupoint · pressure point

Meaning

穴位 refers to specific points on the body used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), particularly in acupuncture and acupressure. These are believed to be locations where qi (vital energy) can be accessed and manipulated to promote healing and balance. Each acupoint has a specific name and function in TCM theory.

Usage

穴位 is primarily used in medical and health contexts, especially when discussing TCM treatments like acupuncture (针灸) or massage (按摩). It's commonly heard in hospitals, clinics, wellness centers, and conversations about alternative medicine. The term is relatively formal and technical compared to everyday vocabulary.

Examples

  1. 01
    针灸师准确地找到了病人背部的穴位
    Zhēn jiǔ shī zhǔn què de zhǎo dào le bìng rén bèi de xué wèi.
    The acupuncturist accurately located the acupoints on the patient's back.
  2. 02
    按摩这个穴位可以缓解头痛。
    Àn zhè ge xué wèi huǎn jiě tóu tòng.
    Massaging this acupoint can relieve headaches.

Characters

Measure words

  • 三个穴位

Common collocations

  • 按压穴位
    àn xué wèi
    to press acupoints
  • 找准穴位
    zhǎo zhǔn xué wèi
    to locate acupoints accurately
  • 刺激穴位
    xué wèi
    to stimulate acupoints
  • 主要穴位
    zhǔ yào xué wèi
    main acupoints

Origin

穴 originally meant 'cave' or 'hollow,' representing the idea of specific points or 'holes' on the body's surface. 位 means 'position' or 'location.' Together they form 'acupoint location,' reflecting the TCM concept of precise bodily positions where energy channels can be accessed.

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