Definitions

qián to act with reverence; reverent

Etymology

About

The character "虔" is structured with the component "虍", denoting a tiger, and "文", signifying pattern or cultivated refinement, a combination that initially conveyed a sense of fierce intensity or austere force. Etymologically, this configuration suggested actions akin to cutting or vigorous exertion, derived from the symbolic power of the tiger. Its early meanings associated with formidable strength gradually transitioned toward notions of earnest solemnity, eventually crystallizing into its modern sense of devout piety and sincere reverence, a semantic shift reflecting the influence of evolving cultural and philosophical values on the character's interpretation. Throughout this development, the traditional form has maintained its integral components, with "虍" and "文" preserving the character's historical visual identity.

Etymology Hide

Bronze etymology image
Bronze Mid Western Zhou (~900 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

她是一个诚的信徒。

Tā shì yī gè qiánchéng de xìntú.

She is a devout believer.

诚地跪在神像前。

Tā qiánchéng de guì zài shénxiàng qián.

He kneels devoutly before the idol.

信徒们诚地诵经。

Xìntúmen qiánchéng de sòngjīng.

The believers chant scriptures devoutly.

他的诚感动了所有人。

Tā de qiánchéng gǎndòngle suǒyǒu rén.

His devoutness moved everyone.

她以诚的心态对待生活。

Tā yǐ qiánchéng de xīntài duìdài shēnghuó.

She treats life with a devout attitude.

在寺庙里,人们都表现得非常诚。

Zài sìmiào lǐ, rénmen dōu biǎoxiàn dé fēicháng qiánchéng.

In the temple, people all behave very devoutly.

唯有诚才能获得内心的平静。

Wéiyǒu qiánchéng cáinéng huòdé nèixīn de píngjìng.

Only devoutness can attain inner peace.

他对信仰的诚程度令人钦佩。

Tā duì xìnyǎng de qiánchéng chéngdù lìngrén qīnpèi.

The degree of his devoutness to faith is admirable.