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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.
Strokes23Frequency#3267DifficultyVery Hard
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
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 理智
理智Simplified
23Strokes
—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.
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.
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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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.
When to use 理智
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).
理智 or something close to it
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.
What learners get wrong
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).
Write 理智
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。
