举足轻重 (jǔ zú qīng zhòng) — (idiom) to play a decisive role; to hold the balance; to be of critical importance
Definition
A chengyu meaning 'one's move can tip the scales' — used for a person or factor whose influence is decisive. 至关重要 is a more general 'of vital importance'; 举足轻重 specifically stresses that one action shifts the outcome.
idiom
to play a decisive roleto hold the balanceto be of critical importance
Examples
- 举足轻重，。Zhè wèi jiào shòu zài guó jì xué shù jiè jǔ zú qīng zhòng, tā de guān diǎn wǎng wǎng néng gǎi biàn yán jiū fāng xiàng.This professor holds a decisive role in the international academic community; his opinions often change research directions.
- ，举足轻重，。Zài zhè ge tán pàn zhōng, zhōng fāng de tài dù jǔ zú qīng zhòng, zhí jiē jué dìng xié yì néng fǒu dá chéng.In this negotiation, the Chinese side's attitude is of critical importance, directly determining whether the agreement can be reached.
- ，举足轻重。Tā suī rán zhí wèi bù gāo, dàn zài xiàng mù jué cè shàng què shì jǔ zú qīng zhòng de rén wù.Although his position is not high, he is a pivotal figure in project decision-making.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.