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中文
目录 — meaning in English: table of Contents
mùlù · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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catalogue
食品
shípǐn
创业
chuàngyè
事业
shìyè
脚跟
jiǎogēn
目录
mùlù
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neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 目录 (mùlù) when discussing books, reports, or any written material that features a structured outline of contents. You might hear it in a classroom setting when a teacher points out the table of contents in a textbook, or in a business meeting when referencing a detailed report.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 纲要 (gāngyào), which means 'outline' or 'summary'. While 目录 (mùlù) refers specifically to a table of contents, 纲要 (gāngyào) is more about the overarching structure or main points of a document. Use 目录 when you want to emphasize the order of sections within a book or report.
Culture
The term 目录 (mùlù) combines the characters 目 (mù), meaning 'eye' or 'to see', and 录 (lù), meaning 'to record'. This rich etymology emphasizes the idea of a visual guide that records important information. In Chinese culture, where literature and education are highly valued, a well-organized 目录 is seen as a mark of professionalism and clarity.
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