贤人 (xiánrén) refers to a wise and virtuous person, often someone who possesses moral integrity and knowledge. This term is commonly used in philosophical and literary contexts to describe individuals who lead by example and are respected for their wisdom and ethical character.
HSK 6, 16 strokes, Hard
xiánrén(xian2ren2) T2
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May 27, 2026
贤人xiánrén(xian2ren2)
贤人 (xiánrén) refers to a wise and virtuous person, often someone who possesses moral integrity and knowledge. This term is commonly used in philosophical and literary contexts to describe individuals who lead by example and are respected for their wisdom and ethical character.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of a 贤人 has roots in Confucian philosophy, where moral integrity and wisdom are highly valued. The portrayal of 贤人 in classic literature often serves as a moral compass for society.
Memory Tip
Imagine a wise sage sitting atop a mountain, surrounded by books and scrolls, embodying the essence of virtue. The character 贤 combines the radical for 'money' (贝) with 'worthy' (贤), suggesting that true richness comes from wisdom and virtue rather than material wealth.
About 贤人
贤人Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRC1
Podcast: 贤人
Podcast: 贤人
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AI Study Notes for 贤人
Quick Contrast
贤士 (xiánshì) - use 贤人 when emphasizing moral integrity and virtue, while 贤士 focuses more on wisdom and scholarly achievements.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a wise sage sitting atop a mountain, surrounded by books and scrolls, embodying the essence of virtue. The character 贤 combines the radical for 'money' (贝) with 'worthy' (贤), suggesting that true richness comes from wisdom and virtue rather than material wealth.
Usage Notes
This term is typically used in formal contexts, such as literature or discussions about philosophy. Learners should be cautious not to confuse it with 贤良 (xiánliáng), which also means virtuous but carries a more specific connotation of goodness and kindness. The tone of '贤' is rising, which can be a challenge for learners.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, learners should focus on understanding its use in classical texts and modern literature. Connecting this term to other HSK 6 vocabulary, such as 智者 (zhìzhě, wise person) or 君子 (jūnzǐ, gentleman), can enhance comprehension and contextual usage.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of a 贤人 has roots in Confucian philosophy, where moral integrity and wisdom are highly valued. The portrayal of 贤人 in classic literature often serves as a moral compass for society.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mix up 贤人 with similar terms like 英雄 (yīngxióng, hero), which implies bravery rather than wisdom. Using 贤人 in a context that requires a term for a brave person would be incorrect.
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 贤人
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Cultural Notes for 贤人
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of a 贤人 has roots in Confucian philosophy, where moral integrity and wisdom are highly valued. The portrayal of 贤人 in classic literature often serves as a moral compass for society.
Frequently Asked Questions about 贤人
While both terms refer to wise individuals, 贤人 emphasizes moral virtue and integrity, whereas 智者 focuses more on intelligence and knowledge.
It's typically used in more formal or literary contexts, so it might not be appropriate for casual conversations.
The term is gender-neutral in modern usage, but historically, terms like 贤女 (xiánnǚ) have been used to refer to virtuous women.
