Meaning
道理 refers to the underlying reason, logic, or principle behind something. It represents what makes sense or what is reasonable in a situation. The word combines 道 (way/path) and 理 (principle/logic) to express the idea of fundamental truths or rational explanations that govern how things work.
Usage
Commonly used in everyday conversation when discussing whether something makes sense or is reasonable. Often appears in phrases like 有道理 (makes sense) or 讲道理 (to reason with someone, to be reasonable). Native speakers use it both to acknowledge valid points and to appeal to logic in discussions or arguments.
Examples
- 01你说的很有道理，我应该听你的建议。, .What you said makes a lot of sense, I should listen to your advice.
- 02这个孩子不讲道理，总是乱发脾气。, .This child is unreasonable and always throws tantrums.
Characters
Measure words
- 个一个道理
Common collocations
- 有道理makes sense, reasonable
- 讲道理to reason, to be reasonable
- 明白道理to understand the principle/reason
- 没道理doesn't make sense, unreasonable
Antonyms
Origin
Combines the classical concepts of 道 (the Way, from Daoist philosophy) and 理 (principle/pattern, from Neo-Confucian philosophy), creating a term that represents fundamental truths or rational principles.