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March 24, 2026
道理dàolǐ(dao4li3)
道理 (dàolǐ) refers to the underlying reason or principle behind something. It is often used in contexts where justification or rationale is needed, such as in discussions, arguments, or explaining moral values.
Frequency#1867DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 道理 is deeply tied to Confucian values, which emphasize moral reasoning and the importance of understanding one's actions in a societal context.
Memory Tip
Imagine a wise old man walking a path (道, dào) while holding a scroll of principles (理, lǐ). Every step he takes reveals a new reason behind life's mysteries, making the path of understanding clearer.
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AI Study Notes for 道理
Quick Contrast
理 (lǐ) — use 道理 when emphasizing a principle or justification, while 理 is more general and can refer to reason or logic without the moral or contextual weight.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a wise old man walking a path (道, dào) while holding a scroll of principles (理, lǐ). Every step he takes reveals a new reason behind life's mysteries, making the path of understanding clearer.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 道理 with 理论 (lǐlùn), which means 'theory.' 道理 is more about practical reasoning, while 理论 is more abstract. It's used in both formal and informal contexts, but ensure the tone matches the conversation.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, understanding 道理 can enhance your comprehension of discussions involving ethics or reasoning. Focus on its usage in phrases like '讲道理' (jiǎng dàolǐ - to reason with someone) to grasp its practical application.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 道理 is deeply tied to Confucian values, which emphasize moral reasoning and the importance of understanding one's actions in a societal context.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 道理 by treating it as a synonym for 'reason' in all contexts. For example, saying '这是我道理' (This is my reason) should be corrected to '这是我的理由' (This is my reason).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 道理
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Grammar Patterns of 道理
道理 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 7 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.
Michael said reasonably, " Your casino has been losing money against all the odds.
Cultural Notes for 道理
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 道理 is deeply tied to Confucian values, which emphasize moral reasoning and the importance of understanding one's actions in a societal context.
Frequently Asked Questions about 道理
道理 refers to practical reasoning or principles, while 理论 is more theoretical or abstract.
You might say, '他讲的道理很有道理' (What he said makes a lot of sense).
Yes, 道理 can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but the context should dictate the level of formality.
