Meaning
气节 refers to a person's moral integrity and steadfast adherence to principles, especially in the face of adversity or temptation. It describes someone who maintains their ethical standards and refuses to compromise their values for personal gain or under pressure.
Usage
This is a formal, literary term often used in historical or political contexts to praise someone's moral character. It commonly appears when discussing people who refuse to betray their principles despite threats, bribes, or hardship. The term carries strong positive connotations and is associated with traditional Chinese values of loyalty and righteousness.
Examples
- 01这位学者一生保持气节，从不向权贵低头。, .This scholar maintained his integrity throughout his life and never bowed to the powerful and wealthy.
- 02文天祥宁死不屈，表现出了崇高的民族气节。, .Wen Tianxiang would rather die than submit, displaying lofty national integrity.
Characters
Common collocations
- 有气节to have integrity/principles
- 保持气节to maintain one's integrity
- 民族气节national integrity
Antonyms
Origin
The term combines 气 (vital spirit/character) with 节 (integrity/節制), creating a concept central to Confucian ethics. Historically used to describe scholars and officials who refused to serve corrupt rulers or compromise their moral standards.