荣誉
róngyù
The English word "honor" translates to Chinese as 荣誉 (róngyù).
荣誉 refers to the concept of honor, specifically the recognition and esteem granted for outstanding achievements, virtues or contributions.
Meaning: excellence of character, high moral worth, virtue (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Hokkien dialect, the term 榮幸 is often used to express honor.
How do you pronounce it?
róngyù
Did you know?
- In Chinese, the concept of honor is deeply tied to the character 荣 (róng), which originally depicted a plant with flourishing leaves. This botanical origin suggests that honor is viewed as a type of blooming or spreading vitality.
- In many formal contexts, losing 'face' is the exact opposite of gaining 荣誉. While 'honor' feels like a positive achievement, 'face' (miànzi) is a social currency that can be lost or gained through one's actions.
- While 荣誉 is a noun, Chinese speakers often use the word 光荣 (guāngróng) to describe honor as a state of being 'radiant' or 'glorious', linking moral honor to physical light.
Examples in context
- 我对你的贡献表示尊敬。I honor your contributions.
- 这是我的荣誉，我为此感到非常自豪。This is my honor, and I feel extremely proud of it.
- 我尊重你的决定。I honor/respect your decision.
- 我们要维护家族的荣誉。Wǒmen yào wéihù jiāzú de róngyù.We must uphold the honor of the family.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about a community award.
- 浩然 Haoran佳怡，你获得这个奖项是很大的荣誉。Jiāyí, nǐ huòdé zhège jiǎngxiàng shì hěn dà de róngyù.Jiayi, receiving this award is a great honor.
- 佳怡 Jiayi谢谢你，浩然。Xièxiè nǐ, Hàorán.Thank you, Haoran.
- 浩然 Haoran你的善良让大家都佩服。Nǐ de shànliáng ràng dàjiā dōu pèifú.Everyone admires your kindness.
- 佳怡 Jiayi我很开心能帮到别人。Wǒ hěn kāixīn néng bāng dào biérén.I am very happy to be able to help others.
