Definitions
Etymology
Adapted from the cursive form of the traditional character 義. Phonosemantic compound. 羊 represents the meaning and 我 represents the sound. In ancient China sheep (羊) were associated with goodness and beauty, which is why 羊 is a component in characters like 美 (beautiful), 善 (benevolent), and 義 (justice).
About
The simplified character 义, written with a cross and a dot, derives from the cursive form of the more intricate traditional 義. 義 is a phonosemantic compound: 羊 (sheep) conveys the meaning, as sheep were associated with goodness and beauty in ancient China, hence its presence in characters like 美 (beautiful) and 善 (benevolent), while 我 provides the sound. 义 embodies the ideas of justice, righteousness, and morality, the principles of correct and honorable conduct, and by extension it can also denote 'meaning' or 'significance'.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
这本书很有意义。
正义总是会胜利。
他做事很讲义气。
我们有义务帮助别人。
这是一个主义问题。
义演是为了筹集资金。
他的义举感动了所有人。
在道义上，我们必须支持他们。
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