About
The character "孝" is structurally composed of the element 老, meaning old, positioned above 子, meaning child, visually conveying the idea of a younger generation supporting the elder. Etymologically, this formation directly represents the concept of filial piety, specifically the duty of children to their parents. Over centuries, the meaning extended from this foundational familial responsibility to encompass a more comprehensive ethical principle within Confucian philosophy, involving reverence for ancestors and the observance of proper family roles. The character's form, built from these two components, has consistently conveyed this semantic focus without alteration.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
孝道是中华民族的传统美德。
他非常孝顺自己的父母。
子女对父母要有孝心。
尽孝的方式有很多种。
现代社会的孝道观念有所变化。
他将孝的精神延伸到尊敬师长。
赡养父母是法律规定的孝行。
真正的孝在于理解和尊重，而不仅仅是义务。