下台

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The term "下台" (xiàtái) literally means "to step down from the stage." It is commonly used both in a literal sense—referring to actors or performers leaving the stage—and figuratively, to describe political or organizational leaders resigning or being forced to leave their positions.

Common Contexts

  1. Literal stage use: When an actor or performer finishes their part and leaves the stage.
  2. Political/organizational use: When a leader resigns or is removed from office.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 下台 (xiàtái xièmù): to step down and take a final bow, often used in theatrical contexts.
  • 被迫下台 (bèi pò xiàtái): to be forced to step down, commonly used in political or corporate contexts.
  • 宣布下台 (xuānbù xiàtái): to announce stepping down.

Nuances

Using 下台 in political contexts often implies a loss of power or forced resignation, sometimes with negative connotations. In contrast, the literal use on stage is neutral or positive, indicating the end of a performance.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 下台 with 退 (tuìchǎng), which means to leave a venue or exit a scene but lacks the connotation of stepping down from a position or role.

Example Sentences

This leader was forced to step down because of a scandal.

After finishing the performance on stage, the actor gracefully stepped off.

The company chairman announced he will step down at the end of the year, to