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March 24, 2026
理智lǐzhì(li3zhi4)
理智 refers to the ability to think logically and make rational decisions. It encompasses both reason and intellect, often used in contexts where clear, sound judgment is necessary, such as in discussions about morality or decision-making. The term suggests a balanced approach to situations, valuing logic over emotion.
Frequency#3267DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 理智 is often emphasized in education and personal conduct, reflecting the Confucian value of rationality and ethical decision-making. It is seen as critical for maintaining harmony in relationships and society.
Memory Tip
Imagine a wise owl (representing 理, reason) sitting on a stack of books (representing 智, intellect). The owl uses its knowledge to make thoughtful decisions, symbolizing the harmony between reason and intellect. The pronunciation, 'li3 zhi4', can be remembered by picturing the owl saying 'lee, zhi (wisdom)' when asked a question.
Meanings of 理智
lǐzhì(li3zhi4)
1reason
2intellect
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 理智
理智Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
名形词xíngróngcíadj-noun (adj.-n.)Part of Speech
#3267Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRC1
Podcast: 理智
Podcast: 理智
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AI Study Notes for 理智
Quick Contrast
理性 (lǐxìng) refers specifically to rationality in terms of reasoning, while 理智 (lǐzhì) emphasizes a broader capacity for sound judgment that includes emotional understanding.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a wise owl (representing 理, reason) sitting on a stack of books (representing 智, intellect). The owl uses its knowledge to make thoughtful decisions, symbolizing the harmony between reason and intellect. The pronunciation, 'li3 zhi4', can be remembered by picturing the owl saying 'lee, zhi (wisdom)' when asked a question.
Usage Notes
When using 理智, be careful not to confuse it with 感情 (emotion), as the former emphasizes rational thought. It is generally used in formal contexts, such as academic discussions or serious conversations. Common collocations include '保持理智' (to maintain reason) and '缺乏理智' (to lack rationality).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, 理智 connects with other advanced vocabulary regarding emotions and decision-making. Students should focus on how to use it in complex sentences to express nuanced thoughts, particularly in philosophical or psychological discussions.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 理智 is often emphasized in education and personal conduct, reflecting the Confucian value of rationality and ethical decision-making. It is seen as critical for maintaining harmony in relationships and society.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 理智 with 感情, using them interchangeably when they are distinct concepts. For example, saying '她很理智，情绪化' (She is very rational but emotional) is incorrect. Instead, clarify by saying '她很理智，但有时候会受感情影响' (She is very rational, but sometimes is influenced by emotions).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 理智
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Grammar Patterns of 理智
理智 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 4 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
噢，好了，____一点。
Oh, come on, be reasonable.
Example Sentences for 理智 (7)
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1
噢，好了，理智一点。
ō， ， hǎo， le ， lǐ zhì。
Oh, come on, be reasonable.
2
那是个集体丧失理智、谋杀与暴力合法化的时期。
nà shì gè jí tǐ sāng shī lǐ zhì、 、 móu shā yǔ bào lì hé fǎ huà de shí。
It was a period of collective insanity, of legalized murder and mayhem.
3
他会用事实和数据蒙蔽你的理智。
tā huì yòng shì shí hé shù jù mēng bì nǐ de lǐ zhì。
I tended to mistrust my emotions and intellectualize everything.
5
设置“理智饮酒日”的主要目的是让人们了解酗酒的恶果。
shè zhì“ “ lǐ zhì yǐn jiǔ” rì ” de zhǔ yào mù de shì ràng rén mén le jiě xù jiǔ de。
Drinkwise Day is mainly designed to educate people about the destructive effects of alcohol abuse.
6
甚至连一向理智的弗兰克都被她迷住了。
shèn zhì lián yī xiàng lǐ zhì de fú lán kè dū bèi tā mí zhù le。
Even sensible Frank had fallen under her spell.
7
全是理智的心,恰如一柄全是锋刃的刀.
quán shì lǐ zhì de xīn, , qià rú yī bǐng quán shì fēng rèn de.
A mind all logic is like a knife all blade.
Exercise 1 of 1
Reorder the Sentence
Oh, come on, be reasonable.
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Cultural Notes for 理智
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 理智 is often emphasized in education and personal conduct, reflecting the Confucian value of rationality and ethical decision-making. It is seen as critical for maintaining harmony in relationships and society.
Frequently Asked Questions about 理智
You can say '在做决定时，我们应该保持理智' (When making decisions, we should maintain our reason).
Yes, traditionally, rationality is often prioritized over emotions in decision-making, reflecting Confucian principles.
Yes, you can describe someone as '理智的人' (a rational person) to highlight their logical thinking.
