经济

• Pinyin: jīng jì
• Hanzi breakdown: 经 = 纟(silk) + 巠 (phonetic), meaning to pass through or manage; 济 = 氵(water) + 齐 (even), meaning to aid or cross

Meaning

Economy; economic. Refers to the system of production, trade, and wealth, or describes something as financially affordable.

As a noun, 经济 refers to the economy of a country or region. As an adjective, it means economical, affordable, or cost-effective. Very frequently used in news, business, and daily conversation about money and living costs.

Examples

1. 中国的经济发展得很快。 China's economy has developed very quickly.
2. 坐火车比坐飞机更经济。 Taking the train is more economical than flying.
3. 经济条件好了以后，他买了一套房子。 After his financial situation improved, he bought an apartment.

Usage Guide

Context: business, news, daily life

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 今年的经济情况比去年好。(This year's economic situation is better than last year.)
• 这家店的东西又好又经济。(This shop's goods are both good and affordable.)

Don't Say

• 他是一个很经济的人。(Don't use 经济 to describe a person as thrifty — use 节约 or 节俭 instead)

Origin & History

Shortened from classical 经世济民 (to manage the world and help the people). 经 (to manage) + 济 (to aid). The modern economic meaning was influenced by Japanese usage during the Meiji era.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal