Definition
起跑线 is the starting line of a race. Figuratively, it refers to a person's initial position in life or competition, often with a sense of advantage or disadvantage (e.g., 赢在起跑线). Unlike the neutral 起点 (starting point, any context) or 出发点 (point of departure / motive), 起跑线 retains a strong race/competition metaphor.
noun
starting line (of a race)starting pointstarting line (figurative, e.g., in life or competition)
Examples
- 起跑线。Zhè tiáo qǐ pǎo xiàn shì yòng bái xiàn huà de.This starting line is drawn with white chalk.
- 起跑线。Jiàoyù shì gǎibiàn rénshēng qǐ pǎo xiàn de guānjiàn.Education is the key to changing one's starting line in life.
- 起跑线。Bú yào bàoyuàn zìjǐ de qǐ pǎo xiàn bǐ biérén dī.Don't complain that your starting line is lower than others'.
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