Definition
牵线 is a separable verb (离合词) with both literal and figurative meanings. Literally it means 'to pull strings or wires,' like operating a puppet. Figuratively, it means 'to act as a go-between' — arranging introductions, often for marriage or business deals. In the abstract sense, it can also mean 'to pull strings behind the scenes' to influence an outcome. Like other separable verbs, you can insert words between 牵 and 线, e.g., 牵了一条线 ('pulled a string/acted as a go-between once').
v.o.
to pull strings/wires (literally, e.g., puppetry or fishing)to act as a go-between (matchmaking or arranging deals)to pull strings (influence)
Examples
- 牵线，。Tā tíxiàn mù'ǒu shí shúliàn de qiān xiàn, guānzhòng dōu hěn jīngyà.When he manipulated the marionette, he skillfully pulled the strings, and the audience was amazed.
- ，。Zhè cì hézuò shì tā qiān de xiàn, wǒmen cáinéng hé nà jiā gōngsī qiānyuē.This cooperation was thanks to his introduction; that's why we could sign a contract with that company.
- 牵线，。Tāmen xīwàng tōngguò yí gè gòngtóng de shúrén qiān xiàn, cùchéng zhè cì liányīn.They hope to arrange this marriage through a mutual acquaintance who will act as a go-between.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.