noun HSK 5
morality · ethics · virtue
Meaning
道德 refers to the principles of right and wrong behavior, moral standards, and ethical conduct in society. It encompasses both personal virtue and societal norms about what is considered morally good or bad.
Usage
This is a formal term commonly used in academic, philosophical, and serious social discussions. It appears frequently in contexts discussing social responsibility, character education, and ethical issues. Native speakers use it when talking about moral standards, ethical dilemmas, or someone's moral character.
Examples
- 01作为医生，他有很高的职业道德。, .As a doctor, he has high professional ethics.
- 02这种行为违背了基本的社会道德。.This kind of behavior violates basic social morality.
Characters
Common collocations
- 道德标准moral standards
- 道德观念moral concepts
- 社会道德social morality
- 职业道德professional ethics
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters have deep roots in Chinese philosophy. 道 (way/path) comes from Daoist philosophy, while 德 (virtue) is central to Confucian thought. Together they formed a compound expressing moral principles and virtuous conduct.