Definition
挂钩 (guà gōu) has two main uses: as a noun meaning 'hook (for hanging things)', more specific than the general 钩 (gōu); and as a verb meaning 'to link, couple, or connect' — often used in economic/policy contexts (e.g., linking bonuses to performance). As a verb, it is more concrete than the abstract bond 纽带 (niǔ dài), and differs from 勾 (gōu) which means 'to hook/attract/outline'.
verb
to linkto coupleto connect (one thing to another, especially in economic or policy contexts)to establish contact with (a person or organization)
noun
hookpeg (for hanging things)
Examples
- 挂钩。Tāmen bǎ liǎng jié huǒchē chēxiāng guà gōu qǐlái le.They hooked the two train cars together.
- 挂钩。Gōngsī jiāng jiǎngjīn yǔ yuángōng jìxiào guà gōu.The company links bonuses to employee performance.
- 挂钩，。Mén shàng zhuāng le yí gè guà gōu, fāngbiàn guà yàoshi.A hook was installed on the door to conveniently hang keys.
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