About
The character 德, signifying virtue or moral character, derives from an early composition integrating the radical 彳, representing movement or action, with the components 直 (straight) and 心 (heart), implying upright conduct motivated by inner intention. Its structure conveys the idea of virtue as a straightforward path aligned with sincere heartedness. Originally associated with notions of ascending or progressing, the term evolved to denote abstract ethical power and personal integrity in classical philosophical texts, such as those of Confucianism and Daoism, where it referred to cultivated qualities harmonizing with cosmic or social order. Subsequently, its meaning expanded to encompass general moral excellence, benevolence, and the inherent nature of entities, establishing it as a fundamental concept in Chinese ethical discourse.
Etymology Hide
Example Sentences Hide
他的品德很好。
德国是一个欧洲国家。
道德教育很重要。
她具有高尚的美德。
德才兼备的人很难得。
他的行为体现了良好的职业道德。
在德国，人们非常注重守时和诚信的品德。
培养社会公德心是每个公民的责任。