制定

• Pinyin: zhì dìng
• Hanzi breakdown: 制 = simplified from 製, depicting cutting cloth; 定 = 宀 (roof) + 正 (correct), meaning to settle or fix

Meaning

Formulate; draw up; establish. To create rules, plans, policies, or standards in a systematic way.

Used in formal contexts for the creation of plans, regulations, policies, and standards. Implies a deliberate, systematic process of creation, often by authorities or organisations. Different from 制作 (to make/produce physical things) — 制定 is for abstract plans and rules. Commonly appears in phrases like 制定计划 (formulate a plan) and 制定政策 (establish a policy).

Examples

1. 公司制定了新的工作制度。 The company established a new work system.
2. 政府正在制定新的环保政策。 The government is formulating new environmental policies.
3. 我们需要制定一个详细的计划。 We need to draw up a detailed plan.

Usage Guide

Context: business, government, planning

Tone: authoritative

Do Say

• 学校制定了新的校规。(The school established new school rules.)
• 我们制定了一个旅行计划。(We drew up a travel plan.)

Don't Say

• 我制定了一个蛋糕。(Don't use 制定 for making physical objects — use 制作 for that; 制定 is for plans, rules, and policies)

Origin & History

制 (make, control) + 定 (fix, decide). Together they mean 'to fix by making,' hence 'to formulate' or 'establish.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal