宪

憲

xiàn

先 + 宀

Definitions

xiàn (noun) constitution; law; statute

Etymology

Phonosemantic compound. 宀 represents the meaning and 先 represents the sound. Simplified form of 憲.

Semantic: 宀 Phonetic: 先

About

The character 宪 corresponds to the traditional complex form 憲, which evolved from an ideogram into a phono-semantic compound. Its traditional structure combines the roof radical 宀 (mián), an eye 目 (mù), a heart 心 (xīn), and a component resembling 丰, conveying a sense of focused scrutiny or official decree issued from an important structure. The simplified form 宪 retains the roof radical but replaces the lower elements with 先 (xiān, meaning "first" or "prior"), which serves as the phonetic component. Originally, the character meant to promulgate laws, establish standards, or present a model for emulation. Its meaning later narrowed to refer specifically to fundamental statutes, governmental laws, and ultimately a nation's constitution.

Etymology Hide

Oracle (~1250-1000 BC)

Traditional Modern

Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

我们学习宪法。

Wǒmen xuéxí xiànfǎ.

We study the constitution.

宪法具有最高法律效力。

Xiànfǎ jùyǒu zuìgāo fǎlǜ xiàolì.

The constitution has the highest legal effect.

国家必须遵守宪法。

Guójiā bìxū zūnshǒu xiànfǎ.

The country must abide by the constitution.

宪政是民主的保障。

Xiànzhèng shì mínzhǔ de bǎozhàng.

Constitutional government is the guarantee of democracy.

这部宪章规定了基本权利。

Zhè bù xiànzhāng guīdìng le jīběn quánlì.

This charter stipulates basic rights.

宪法修正案需要经过严格程序。

Xiànfǎ xiūzhèng'àn xūyào jīngguò yángé chéngxù.

Constitutional amendments require strict procedures.

宪制秩序对于社会稳定至关重要。

Xiànzhì zhìxù duìyú shèhuì wěndìng zhìguān zhòngyào.

Constitutional order is crucial for social stability.

宪法法院负责审查法律是否违宪。

Xiànfǎ fǎyuàn fùzé shěnchá fǎlǜ shìfǒu wéixiàn.

The constitutional court is responsible for reviewing whether laws are unconstitutional.

Related Characters

Component: 先

Component: 宀

宪