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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.
Strokes16Frequency#2927DifficultyHard
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
16Strokes
—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.
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.
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.
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Pronunciation of 经典
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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.
When to use 经典
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.
经典 or something close to it
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.
What learners get wrong
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.
Write 经典
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.
