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March 24, 2026
原则(原則)yuánzé(yuan2ze2)
原则 (yuánzé) refers to a fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior. It is commonly used in contexts such as ethics, philosophy, and governance to describe guiding rules or standards that influence decision-making.
Frequency#3265DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, principles are often seen as essential for maintaining harmony and balance in society, reflecting Confucian values that emphasize moral integrity and ethical behavior.
Memory Tip
Think of 原 (yuán) as the 'source' or 'origin' and 则 (zé) as 'rules' or 'regulations'. Imagine a tree (the source) with branches (the rules) guiding its growth—this visual helps connect the meaning of 'principles' to the characters.
Meanings of 原则
yuánzé(yuan2ze2)
1principle
2doctrine
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 原则
原则Simplified
原則Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#3265Frequency Rank
个Measure Word
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L5IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 原则
Podcast: 原则
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AI Study Notes for 原则
Quick Contrast
原则 (yuánzé) vs 规范 (guīfàn) — use 原则 for fundamental truths or propositions, while 规范 refers to specific norms or standards.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 原 (yuán) as the 'source' or 'origin' and 则 (zé) as 'rules' or 'regulations'. Imagine a tree (the source) with branches (the rules) guiding its growth—this visual helps connect the meaning of 'principles' to the characters.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 原则 with 规则 (guīzé), which means 'rules' and may imply a stricter enforcement. It's generally used in a formal context, so be mindful of your audience when using it. Collocations include '道德原则' (moral principles) and '科学原则' (scientific principles).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, 原则 connects to other abstract nouns related to concepts and ideas. Focus on using it in sentences that discuss ethics or decision-making frameworks to solidify understanding.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, principles are often seen as essential for maintaining harmony and balance in society, reflecting Confucian values that emphasize moral integrity and ethical behavior.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistakenly use 原则 interchangeably with 规则 (guīzé). For example, saying '遵循规则' (to follow principles) instead of '遵循原则'. Remember, 原则 is more about underlying beliefs, while 规则 refers to specific rules.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 原则
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Grammar Patterns of 原则
原则 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 3 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
No matter who it is, we'll act according to principle.
Cultural Notes for 原则
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, principles are often seen as essential for maintaining harmony and balance in society, reflecting Confucian values that emphasize moral integrity and ethical behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions about 原则
You can say, '我总是遵循我的原则' (I always follow my principles).
While it's more formal, you might hear it in discussions about ethics or business practices.
Yes, it can refer to personal principles or values that guide an individual's actions.
