crucible

1. N-COUNT A crucible is a pot in which metals or other substances can be melted or heated up to very high temperatures. 熔炉

2. N-SING Crucible is used to refer to a situation in which something is tested or a conflict takes place, often one which produces something new. 严峻的考验[文学性] [oft N 'of' n]

...a system in which ideas are tested in the crucible of party contention. ...一个在严峻党派纷争中检验不同观点的体系。