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March 24, 2026
经典(經典)jīngdiǎn(jing1dian3)
经典 (jīngdiǎn) refers to works that are highly regarded and have enduring significance, often in literature, philosophy, or religious texts. It is used to describe classical literature as well as exemplary cases or models in various fields, denoting something that is timeless and of high quality.
Frequency#2927DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
经典 works are highly valued in Chinese culture, often including Confucian texts and classical poetry, which are integral to education and cultural identity. Understanding these texts is crucial in grasping Chinese philosophy and ethics.
Memory Tip
Think of 经典 as 'the classic' where '精' (jīng) means essence or spirit, and '典' (diǎn) refers to a standard or canon. Imagine a classic book that distills the essence of knowledge, becoming a beacon for future generations.
Meanings of 经典
jīngdiǎn(jing1dian3)
1the classics
2scriptures
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About 经典
经典Simplified
經典Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名形词xíngróngcíadj-noun (adj.-n.)Part of Speech
#2927Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L5IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 经典
Podcast: 经典
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AI Study Notes for 经典
Quick Contrast
经典 (jīngdiǎn) vs 传世 (chuánshì) — use 经典 for works that are timeless and universally acknowledged, whereas 传世 emphasizes works that have been passed down through generations.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 经典 as 'the classic' where '精' (jīng) means essence or spirit, and '典' (diǎn) refers to a standard or canon. Imagine a classic book that distills the essence of knowledge, becoming a beacon for future generations.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 经典 with similar terms like '传统' (chuántǒng), which means tradition but lacks the same emphasis on quality. It is often used in both formal and informal contexts, so it can be applied in academic discussions as well as casual conversations about films or literature.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, 经典 connects well with other literary and cultural terms like '文化' (wénhuà, culture) and '艺术' (yìshù, art). Focus on how it is used to describe both written works and exemplary behaviors or models.
Cultural Note
经典 works are highly valued in Chinese culture, often including Confucian texts and classical poetry, which are integral to education and cultural identity. Understanding these texts is crucial in grasping Chinese philosophy and ethics.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 经典 when they mean 'modern' or 'current', saying things like '这是一个经典的电影' (This is a classic movie) when referring to a recent film. To correct this, ensure the context truly aligns with the qualities of timelessness or exemplary standards.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 经典
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Grammar Patterns of 经典
经典 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 5 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.
Some styles are so flattering that they instantly become classics.
6
每周结束节目时他都会说那句经典的话，“下周见！”。
měi zhōu jié shù jié mù shí tā dū huì shuō nà jù jīng diǎn de huà，“ ，“ xià zhōu！”。
He would sign off each week with the catch-phrase, "I'llsee thee!"
7
“他们演奏经典摇滚乐，”她的男朋友说道，“我爸爸也喜欢他们。”
“ “ tā mén yǎn zòu jīng diǎn yáo gǔn，” lè ，” tā de nán péng yǒu，“ shuō dào ，“ wǒ bà bà yě xǐ。”
"They play classic rock'n"roll,' states her boyfriend, "My dad digs them too."
8
他的经典作品和最新创作都很独特。
tā de jīng diǎn zuò pǐn hé zuì xīn chuàng zuò dū hěn dú tè。
Featured are both his classics and his latest creations.
9
他的儿童书非常经典，应该为更多人所知晓。
tā de ér tóng shū fēi cháng jīng diǎn， ， yīng gāi wéi gēng duō rén suǒ zhī。
His children's books are classics that deserve to be much better known.
10
在这一问题上它特别参照了赫尔曼·诺丁1928年的经典之作。
zài zhè yī wèn tí shàng tā tè bié cān zhào le hè ěr màn· · nuò1928 dīng 1928 nián de jīng diǎn。
It specifically referenced Hermann Noordung's classic 1928 book on this subject.
Cultural Notes for 经典
🏮Cultural insight
经典 works are highly valued in Chinese culture, often including Confucian texts and classical poetry, which are integral to education and cultural identity. Understanding these texts is crucial in grasping Chinese philosophy and ethics.
Frequently Asked Questions about 经典
It can describe anything from classic literature to a typical example of a good practice in a profession.
Yes, it can be used to describe modern pieces that are considered timeless or exemplary.
No, it can also refer to classic examples in various fields like music, art, and philosophy.
