noun HSK 6
jǐng
aphorism · maxim · 警句 · epigram

Meaning

警句 refers to a concise, memorable statement that expresses a truth, principle, or moral lesson. These are pithy sayings designed to warn, advise, or enlighten. The term literally combines 'warning/alert' (警) with 'sentence' (句), indicating statements that serve to caution or instruct.

Usage

This is a formal, literary term commonly used in written Chinese, academic discussions, and literary analysis. It refers to profound sayings found in classical literature, philosophical texts, or created by writers and thinkers. Native speakers use it when discussing literary devices or quoting wise sayings.

Examples

  1. 01
    这本书里收录了许多古代哲学家的警句
    Zhè běn shū shōu le duō dài zhé xué jiā de jǐng .
    This book contains many aphorisms from ancient philosophers.
  2. 02
    他在演讲中引用了几句警句来说明自己的观点。
    zài yǎn jiǎng zhōng yǐn yòng le jǐng lái shuō míng de guān diǎn.
    He quoted several maxims in his speech to illustrate his viewpoint.

Characters

Measure words

  • 一句警句
  • tiáo几条警句

Common collocations

  • 人生警句
    rén shēng jǐng
    life aphorisms
  • 经典警句
    jīng diǎn jǐng
    classic maxims
  • 一句警句
    jǐng
    an aphorism

Origin

The word combines 警 (warning, alert) with 句 (sentence), literally meaning 'warning sentence' or 'cautionary phrase,' reflecting the instructional and moral nature of aphorisms.

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