脊梁（jǐ liáng）

Pronunciation: jǐ liáng

Basic Meaning: backbone

Detailed Explanation: The idiom "脊梁" refers to the spine, which is the central supporting structure of the human body. Metaphorically, it represents the backbone or the most essential part of something.

Usage Scenarios: This idiom is often used to describe someone's strong character, courage, or sense of responsibility. It can also be used to describe the most important or fundamental part of an organization, a team, or a country.

Story Origin: The origin of this idiom can be traced back to ancient times when people believed that the spine was the most vital part of the body, symbolizing strength and stability. It was later extended to represent the core values and principles that hold a society or a group together.

Structure of the Idiom: Subject + 脊梁

Example Sentences:

1. 他是我們團隊的脊梁，始終堅持正確的道路。（He is the backbone of our team, always sticking to the right path.）

2. 她的勇氣和堅韌精神是她家庭的脊梁。（Her courage and resilience are the backbone of her family.）

Memory Techniques: To remember the meaning of this idiom, you can imagine a strong and straight backbone supporting a person or a structure. Visualize the image of a backbone symbolizing strength and stability.

Extended Learning: To further understand the concept of "脊梁," you can explore related idioms such as "挺直腰桿" (to stand tall and straight) and "骨氣" (pride and backbone).

Example Sentences from Students of Different Age Groups:

1. Elementary school student: 我的媽媽是我家的脊梁，她總是幫助我克服困難。（My mom is the backbone of our family, she always helps me overcome difficulties.）

2. Middle school student: 老師是我們班級的脊梁，他們教育我們成為有責任心的人。（Teachers are the backbone of our class, they educate us to be responsible individuals.）

3. High school student: 每個國家的年輕人都是國家的脊梁，他們承擔著國家的未來發展。（The young people of every country are the backbone of their nation, they bear the responsibility for the country's future development.）