high government post; pivot; key mechanism; cardinal
Meanings
3 senses · 9 examplesnoun
important government position or institution (in feudal dynasties)
archaicHistorical term referring to high-ranking positions in imperial courts, often involving significant political power and close proximity to the emperor.
He rose to the rank of枢机, with power spanning the entire court and countryside.
Throughout the ages,枢机ministers were all personally selected by the emperor.
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The position of枢机is no trivial matter.
noun
the crux; the pivot; key mechanism (of things)
literaryLiterary usage indicating the central or crucial point of a matter; often used in formal or classical-style writing to denote the hinge or pivotal point upon which something turns.
The crux of this matter lies in employing the right people.
Where the pivot lies must be carefully observed.
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This sentence hit the nail on the head, revealing the crux of the problem.
noun
cardinal (high-ranking ecclesiastical leader in the Catholic Church)
formalOften shortened to 枢机 in context, though the full term is 枢机主教. Refers to the princes of the Church who elect the Pope and advise him.
The Pope appointed three new cardinals.
The College of Cardinals held a secret conclave.
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He is a venerable and highly respected cardinal.