Definitions

zhēn (adjective) real; true; genuine
zhēn (adverb) really; truly; indeed

Etymology

Based on the original meaning "precious", now written as . The meaning later shifted to "genuine" and "true".

About

The character 真, central to conveying notions of truth and authenticity, derives from an etymological foundation suggesting a fundamental or unadulterated state, with its structural composition historically integrating elements related to perception and transformation that emphasize a discernment of reality. Over time, its written form stabilized into a configuration that visually combines components implying examination and completeness, which aligns with its conceptual weight. The semantic range of 真 initially centered on concrete genuineness and actual existence, later extending into abstract realms such as philosophical purity and sincere essence, particularly within contexts discussing innate nature or unwavering honesty. This evolution reflects a continuous adaptation where the character's core meaning of veracity persisted while accommodating broader applications in both descriptive and evaluative language.

Etymology Hide

Bronze etymology image
Bronze Early Western Zhou (~1000 BC)
Bronze etymology image
Bronze Early Western Zhou (~1000 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Chu (Warring States: 475-221 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Chu (Warring States: 475-221 BC)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Seal etymology image
Seal Shuowen (~100 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Qin dynasty (221-206 BC)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Seal etymology image
Seal Western Han dynasty (202 BC-9 AD)
Clerical etymology image
Clerical Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD)
Traditional Modern
Simplified Modern

Example Sentences Hide

今天天气好。

Jīntiān tiānqì zhēn hǎo.

Today's weather is really nice.

的喜欢吗?

Nǐ zhēn de xǐhuān ma?

Do you really like it?

他说的是话。

Tā shuō de shì zhēn huà.

What he said is the truth.

这是我正的家。

Zhè shì wǒ zhēnzhèng de jiā.

This is my real home.

相终于大白了。

Zhēnxiàng zhōngyú dàbái le.

The truth finally came out.

诚的心最重要。

Zhēnchéng de xīn zuì zhòngyào.

A sincere heart is the most important.

没想到会这样。

Zhēn méi xiǎngdào huì zhèyàng.

I really didn't expect it to be like this.

对于这件事,他的实想法是什么?

Duìyú zhè jiàn shì, tā de zhēnshí xiǎngfǎ shì shénme?

Regarding this matter, what is his real opinion?