性善 (xìngshàn) refers to the concept of inherent goodness in human nature. It suggests that people are born with a natural inclination towards kindness and morality. This idea is often discussed in the context of Confucian philosophy, where it contrasts with the belief in innate selfishness.
HSK 7, 16 strokes, Hard
xìngshàn(xing4shan4) T4
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May 27, 2026
性善xìngshàn(xing4shan4)
性善 (xìngshàn) refers to the concept of inherent goodness in human nature. It suggests that people are born with a natural inclination towards kindness and morality. This idea is often discussed in the context of Confucian philosophy, where it contrasts with the belief in innate selfishness.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
性善 is a fundamental concept in Confucianism, which has shaped Chinese moral thought for centuries. It emphasizes the belief that education and environment are crucial in cultivating the inherent goodness within individuals.
Memory Tip
Think of '性' (xìng) as 'nature' and '善' (shàn) as 'goodness.' Imagine a baby born with a glowing heart, symbolizing their innate goodness. The baby’s '性' (nature) shines brightly with '善' (goodness), reminding you that '性善' means 'inherent goodness.'
About 性善
性善Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 性善
Podcast: 性善
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AI Study Notes for 性善
Quick Contrast
性恶 (xìng'è) - use 性善 when discussing the belief in inherent goodness, as 性恶 refers to the belief in inherent evil.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of '性' (xìng) as 'nature' and '善' (shàn) as 'goodness.' Imagine a baby born with a glowing heart, symbolizing their innate goodness. The baby’s '性' (nature) shines brightly with '善' (goodness), reminding you that '性善' means 'inherent goodness.'
Usage Notes
When using 性善, it is often in philosophical discussions or debates about human nature. Be cautious not to confuse it with '性恶' (xìng è), which means 'inherent evil.' It is more commonly used in formal contexts rather than casual conversation.
HSK Study Tips
At HSK level 7, students should focus on understanding the philosophical implications of 性善 and how it relates to other concepts in Confucianism. Connect it with terms like '仁' (rén, benevolence) and '义' (yì, righteousness) to deepen comprehension.
Cultural Note
性善 is a fundamental concept in Confucianism, which has shaped Chinese moral thought for centuries. It emphasizes the belief that education and environment are crucial in cultivating the inherent goodness within individuals.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 性善 with similar terms. For example, saying '人性是性恶' (rénxìng shì xìng è, 'human nature is evil') instead of understanding the discussion around 性善. Remember, 性善 emphasizes the potential for goodness in people.
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 性善
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Cultural Notes for 性善
🏮Cultural insight
性善 is a fundamental concept in Confucianism, which has shaped Chinese moral thought for centuries. It emphasizes the belief that education and environment are crucial in cultivating the inherent goodness within individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions about 性善
The opposite of 性善 is 性恶 (xìng è), which means inherent evil, suggesting that human nature is naturally selfish.
性善 is often referenced in debates about morality and ethics, particularly in discussing the impact of society on individual behavior.
性善 is frequently discussed in Confucian texts, such as 'The Analects,' where Confucius elaborates on the idea of cultivating goodness through education.
