批准

• Pinyin: pī zhǔn
• Hanzi breakdown: 批 = 扌(hand) + 比 (compare); 准 = 冫(ice) + 隹 (bird), phonetic component

Meaning

To approve; to ratify. Used when an authority formally permits or authorises a request or plan.

Typically used in formal or semi-formal contexts when a superior, government, or organisation gives official approval. Common in workplace, administrative, and legal settings. The subject is usually someone in a position of authority — a manager, committee, or government body.

Examples

1. 领导已经批准了我的请假申请。 The leader has already approved my leave application.
2. 这个建设项目还没有被政府批准。 This construction project has not been approved by the government yet.
3. 经理批准我下周去出差。 The manager approved my business trip next week.

Usage Guide

Context: workplace, government, administration

Tone: official

Do Say

• 你的申请已经批准了。(Your application has been approved.)
• 这件事需要校长批准才行。(This matter requires the principal's approval.)

Don't Say

• 我批准你吃这个苹果。(Don't use 批准 for casual everyday permission between equals — it sounds overly formal. Say 你可以吃 or 你吃吧 instead.)

Origin & History

批 originally meant to strike or slap, later evolving to mean to comment on or judge (as in marking documents). 准 means to permit or allow. Together they mean to officially approve after review.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal