兼爱 refers to the concept of 'universal love' or 'inclusive love' in Chinese philosophy, particularly associated with the teachings of Mozi (Mo Tzu). It emphasizes the importance of loving all individuals equally, transcending familial or social boundaries, and promoting harmony in society.
HSK 6, 16 strokes, Hard
jiānài(jian1ai4) T1
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May 27, 2026
兼爱jiānài(jian1ai4)
兼爱 refers to the concept of 'universal love' or 'inclusive love' in Chinese philosophy, particularly associated with the teachings of Mozi (Mo Tzu). It emphasizes the importance of loving all individuals equally, transcending familial or social boundaries, and promoting harmony in society.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
The concept of 兼爱 is foundational to Mohism, a school of thought in ancient China that advocated for social harmony through equal love. This idea reflects the broader Chinese value of communal harmony over individual interests.
Memory Tip
Imagine a giant heart (representing love) that encompasses everyone around it, without borders or limitations. The character 兼 (jiān) looks like a person holding two things, symbolizing the idea of embracing everyone equally, while 爱 (ài) is a heart, conveying love. Together, they form 'universal love.'
About 兼爱
兼爱Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRC1
Podcast: 兼爱
Podcast: 兼爱
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AI Study Notes for 兼爱
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a giant heart (representing love) that encompasses everyone around it, without borders or limitations. The character 兼 (jiān) looks like a person holding two things, symbolizing the idea of embracing everyone equally, while 爱 (ài) is a heart, conveying love. Together, they form 'universal love.'
Usage Notes
兼爱 is more commonly used in philosophical discussions and texts rather than everyday conversation. Be careful not to confuse it with similar terms like 爱 (love) or 友爱 (friendship), which have different scopes. It is often used in formal contexts.
HSK Study Tips
At HSK 6, students should focus on understanding the philosophical implications of 兼爱 and how it contrasts with other forms of love. Connecting this word to previously learned vocabulary about relationships and ethics will deepen comprehension.
Cultural Note
The concept of 兼爱 is foundational to Mohism, a school of thought in ancient China that advocated for social harmony through equal love. This idea reflects the broader Chinese value of communal harmony over individual interests.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 兼爱 with 爱, thinking they are interchangeable; however, 兼爱 emphasizes a broader, more inclusive love. For example, saying '我兼爱我的家人' (I universally love my family) is incorrect; it should be '我爱我的家人' (I love my family).
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 兼爱
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Cultural Notes for 兼爱
🏮Cultural insight
The concept of 兼爱 is foundational to Mohism, a school of thought in ancient China that advocated for social harmony through equal love. This idea reflects the broader Chinese value of communal harmony over individual interests.
Frequently Asked Questions about 兼爱
It means to extend love and care to all people without discrimination, promoting equality and social harmony.
No, it is typically found in philosophical contexts or discussions about ethics rather than everyday speech.
While 兼爱 promotes universal love, other forms like 亲情 (family love) or 友情 (friendship) focus on specific relationships.
