Meaning
经典 refers to something that is classic, timeless, or of enduring quality and influence. It can describe works of literature, art, music, or film that have stood the test of time. The word also carries the original meaning of sacred or canonical texts, particularly Buddhist and Confucian scriptures.
Usage
Used both as a noun (a classic work) and as an adjective (classic, classical). Common in discussions of culture, art, and literature. Native speakers frequently use it to praise something as timeless or of exceptional quality, such as 经典电影 (classic film) or 经典名著 (classic literary work).
Examples
- 01这是一部经典电影，值得反复观看。, .This is a classic film worth watching repeatedly.
- 02红楼梦是中国文学的经典之作。.Dream of the Red Chamber is a classic work of Chinese literature.
Characters
Measure words
- 部一部经典
- 本一本经典
Common collocations
- 经典作品classic work
- 经典电影classic film
- 经典音乐classical music
- 经典名著classic literary masterpiece
Antonyms
Origin
Originally referred to authoritative canonical texts and scriptures in ancient China. 经 meant 'warp threads' in weaving (suggesting fundamental structure) and came to mean 'classic texts,' while 典 meant 'standards' or 'laws.' Together they denoted the foundational texts of Chinese civilization.