Meanings of 公道
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 公道
Podcast: 公道
Podcast: 公道
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 公道
公平 (gōngpíng) refers specifically to fairness in treatment or judgment, while 公道 (gōngdào) encompasses a broader sense of justice that may include legal and moral implications.
Imagine a judge in a courtroom, holding a scale (representing fairness) while standing on a wide, open road (公道) that everyone can access. The character 公 (gōng) resembles a person standing with arms open, welcoming all to fairness, while 道 (dào) can remind you of a path or road.
Common mistakes include confusing 公道 with similar terms like 正义 (zhèngyì, justice), which has a slightly different nuance. The term is more formal and is often used in legal discussions, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Be careful with the tones, as mispronouncing them can change meanings.
As an HSK 6 word, 公道 connects with other advanced vocabulary related to ethics, law, and social issues. Students should focus on understanding its applications in various contexts, especially in debates or discussions about fairness and justice.
In Chinese culture, the concept of 公道 is deeply rooted in Confucian values, where fairness and justice are essential for harmonious social relations. Discussions about 公道 often arise in the context of community and family, reflecting collective values over individual rights.
Learners often confuse 公道 with 公平 (gōngpíng), thinking they are interchangeable, but 公道 implies a legal or moral judgment while 公平 is more about equality. For example, saying '这不是公平' (zhè bù shì gōngpíng) instead of '这不是公道' (zhè bù shì gōngdào) can lead to misunderstandings.
Pronunciation of 公道
Drill the tone of 公道 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Component Characters
Write 公道
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 公道 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar Patterns of 公道
公道 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.
Complete the Sentence
这家店向来价格____，深受顾客信赖。
This shop has always had fair prices and is deeply trusted by its customers.
Example Sentences for 公道 (3)
Cultural Notes for 公道
In Chinese culture, the concept of 公道 is deeply rooted in Confucian values, where fairness and justice are essential for harmonious social relations. Discussions about 公道 often arise in the context of community and family, reflecting collective values over individual rights.
In Western cultures, the concept of justice often emphasizes individual rights, whereas in Chinese culture, there is a stronger emphasis on communal harmony and collective fairness.
Frequently Asked Questions about 公道
You can say '这个决定不公道' (zhège juédìng bù gōngdào), meaning 'This decision is not fair.'