Meaning
和谐 describes a state of balance, agreement, and peaceful coexistence between elements, people, or ideas. It conveys the Confucian ideal of social and natural harmony where different parts work together smoothly without conflict. The term is used broadly in social, political, environmental, and interpersonal contexts.
Usage
This word carries positive connotations and is frequently used in formal contexts, official discourse, and descriptions of ideal social relations. The Chinese government notably promoted the concept of '和谐社会' (harmonious society) as a policy goal. In everyday speech, it describes relationships, atmospheres, colors, or sounds that blend well together.
Examples
- 01他们一家人相处得很和谐。.Their family gets along very harmoniously.
- 02保护环境对建设和谐社会非常重要。.Protecting the environment is very important for building a harmonious society.
Characters
Common collocations
- 和谐社会harmonious society
- 家庭和谐family harmony
- 和谐相处to get along harmoniously
- 色彩和谐harmonious colors
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters relate to harmony. 和 originally depicted a mouth and grain, suggesting satisfaction and peace. 谐 combines the speech radical 讠 with 皆 (all), suggesting words that bring everyone together in agreement.