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March 24, 2026
合法héfǎ(he2fa3)
The term 合法 (héfǎ) refers to something that is lawful or legal, conforming to the laws and regulations of a particular jurisdiction. It is commonly used in legal contexts, such as discussing rights, contracts, or regulations, to indicate that an action or status is sanctioned by law.
Frequency#2429DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of legality is deeply tied to Confucian values of harmony and order, where adherence to laws is seen as essential for societal stability. Understanding 合法 can help learners navigate discussions about governance and social responsibility in China.
Memory Tip
Think of 合 (hé) as 'to combine' and 法 (fǎ) as 'law.' Visualize a legal document (法) being combined (合) with a stamp of approval, symbolizing that it is recognized and valid under the law.
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AI Study Notes for 合法
Quick Contrast
合法 (héfǎ) vs 正当 (zhèngdàng) — use 合法 for legal compliance, while 正当 emphasizes legitimacy or justification.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 合 (hé) as 'to combine' and 法 (fǎ) as 'law.' Visualize a legal document (法) being combined (合) with a stamp of approval, symbolizing that it is recognized and valid under the law.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse 合法 with 非法 (fēifǎ), which means illegal. Remember that 合法 is used in formal contexts, especially in legal discussions, so it’s important to use it appropriately. Be mindful of the tones, as mispronouncing them can change the meaning entirely.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 合法 connects well with other legal terms and vocabulary related to rights and regulations. Students should focus on understanding its usage in legal contexts and practice forming sentences that demonstrate its meaning.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of legality is deeply tied to Confucian values of harmony and order, where adherence to laws is seen as essential for societal stability. Understanding 合法 can help learners navigate discussions about governance and social responsibility in China.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is to use 合法 inappropriately in informal situations, such as saying '这是合法的' (zhè shì héfǎ de) when discussing casual activities. Instead, use simpler terms like '可以' (kěyǐ) for 'can' or 'allowed.'
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 合法
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Grammar Patterns of 合法
合法 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.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
既然出售香烟是____的，那么禁止做香烟广告就是违宪的。
Banning cigarette advertising would be unconstitutional, since selling cigarettes is legal.
Example Sentences for 合法 (8)
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1
既然出售香烟是合法的，那么禁止做香烟广告就是违宪的。
jì rán chū shòu xiāng yān shì hé fǎ de， ， nà mó jīn zhǐ zuò xiāng yān guǎng gào jiù shì wéi xiàn。
Banning cigarette advertising would be unconstitutional, since selling cigarettes is legal.
jīn tiān wǎn shàng wǒ mén biàn lùn de kè tí shì ruǎn dú pǐn hé fǎ huà.
This evening we're debating the issue of the legalization of soft drugs.
8
一名了望哨发现一艘看似合法的商船.
yī míng le wàng shào fā xiàn yī sōu kàn sì hé fǎ de shāng chuán.
A lookout spotted what appeared to be an innocent merchant ship.
Cultural Notes for 合法
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of legality is deeply tied to Confucian values of harmony and order, where adherence to laws is seen as essential for societal stability. Understanding 合法 can help learners navigate discussions about governance and social responsibility in China.
Frequently Asked Questions about 合法
合法 means legal or lawful, while 非法 means illegal or unlawful. They are opposites and are often used in discussions about regulations.
Yes, while it's more common in formal contexts, you can use 合法 in discussions about personal rights or legal matters in everyday life.
Make sure to pronounce 合 (hé) with a rising tone and 法 (fǎ) with a falling tone to convey the correct meaning.
