Meaning
臣民 refers to the people who live under the rule of a monarch or emperor, essentially the subjects of a kingdom or empire. It emphasizes the hierarchical relationship between ruler and ruled in traditional political systems. This term is primarily used in historical or literary contexts when discussing feudal societies, ancient dynasties, or monarchies.
Usage
This is a formal, classical term rarely used in modern everyday conversation. It appears mainly in historical texts, period dramas, classical literature, or when discussing ancient political systems. In contemporary contexts, it might be used metaphorically or in discussions of monarchy systems in other countries.
Examples
- 01皇帝关心他的臣民，希望他们过上安定的生活。, .The emperor cared about his subjects and hoped they would live stable lives.
- 02在古代中国，臣民必须服从君主的命令。, .In ancient China, subjects had to obey the monarch's commands.
Characters
Common collocations
- 全体臣民all subjects
- 爱护臣民to care for one's subjects
Antonyms
Origin
The compound combines 臣 (minister/subject) with 民 (people), literally meaning 'officials and common people' together referring to all subjects under imperial rule in ancient China.