脊梁 jǐliáng backbone
backbone; spine; Taiwan pr.
How to remember 脊梁: 脊 spine + 梁 bridge = backbone.
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How it is used
- The backbone / spine - literal, and figuratively the mainstay of a nation or family - 民族的脊梁 (mínzú de jǐliáng) the backbone of the nation.
- The figurative use honors those who bear the weight and give strength; 挺直脊梁 = stand tall with dignity.
- Colloquial reading; 脊梁骨 is the literal spinal column.