Meaning
荣 conveys the concept of honor, glory, and flourishing prosperity. It describes both the state of thriving (like plants flourishing) and the social concept of receiving honor or bringing glory to oneself or one's family. This character appears frequently in formal contexts, names, and expressions related to achievement and recognition.
Usage
荣 is relatively formal and is commonly used in compound words rather than alone. It frequently appears in contexts of awards, achievements, and formal recognition. Common in expressions like 光荣 (glorious), 荣誉 (honor), and 荣幸 (honored/privileged). Also popular in personal and business names due to its positive connotations.
Examples
- 01能为国家争光是我的荣幸。.It's my honor to bring glory to the country.
- 02他荣获了今年的最佳员工奖。.He was honored with this year's Best Employee Award.
Common collocations
- 荣获to be honored with (an award)
- 引以为荣to take pride in
- 虚荣vanity, vainglory
- 欣欣向荣thriving, flourishing
Antonyms
Origin
The traditional form 榮 shows the grass radical 艹 (plants) over 火 (fire), with additional components suggesting brightness and flourishing. The imagery evokes plants thriving vigorously, extending metaphorically to human prosperity and honor.