制度

• Pinyin: zhì dù
• Hanzi breakdown: 制 = simplified from 製, depicting cutting cloth to measure; 度 = 广 (wide) + 又 (hand)

Meaning

System; institution; regime. An established set of rules, laws, or organisational structures governing a group or society.

Refers to organised systems of rules and practices in a society or organisation. Can describe political systems (社会制度), economic structures (经济制度), or organisational rules (公司制度). More formal and structural than 规定 (regulation) or 规则 (rule). Frequently used in academic, political, and business discussions.

Examples

1. 每个国家都有自己的教育制度。 Every country has its own education system.
2. 公司的请假制度很严格。 The company's leave policy is very strict.
3. 好的制度能让工作更有效率。 A good system can make work more efficient.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, business, society

Tone: formal

Do Say

• 我们公司有一套完善的管理制度。(Our company has a complete management system.)
• 这个制度需要改革。(This system needs reform.)

Don't Say

• 我家的吃饭制度是七点。(Don't use 制度 for family habits — it sounds overly formal; use 习惯 or 规矩 for household routines)

Origin & History

制 (make, control) + 度 (measure, degree). Together they mean 'measured system of control,' hence 'system' or 'institution.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal