起跑线 qǐpǎoxiàn the starting line (of a race)
the starting line (of a race); scratch line (in a relay race)
How to remember 起跑线: 起 rise up + 跑 run + 线 line = the starting line (of a race).
Characters
How it is used
- The starting line of a race; figuratively one's starting point in life - 别让孩子输在起跑线上 (bié ràng háizi shū zài qǐpǎoxiàn shàng) don't let your child lose at the starting line.
- The figurative use is extremely common in education/parenting discourse about early advantage.
- Literal in athletics; the metaphor frames life/competition as a race from a common start.