经典

• Pinyin: jīng diǎn
• Hanzi breakdown: 经 = 纟 (silk radical) + 圣 simplified phonetic — scripture, classic + 典 = 册 (book) + 几 (table) — a book placed on a stand, a canon

Meaning

Classic; classical; a masterpiece. Refers to something of enduring quality and recognized excellence.

Used as both a noun (a classic work) and an adjective (classic, timeless). Applies to literature, music, film, fashion, design, and any cultural product that has stood the test of time. Also used colloquially to praise something as outstanding or memorable.

Examples

1. 这部电影是二十世纪最经典的作品之一。 This film is one of the most classic works of the twentieth century.
2. 老师让我们读几本经典小说。 The teacher asked us to read several classic novels.
3. 他说了一句非常经典的话，大家都记住了。 He said a very classic line that everyone remembered.

Usage Guide

Context: culture, literature, entertainment, praise

Tone: appreciative

Do Say

• 这首歌真是太经典了！(This song is truly a classic!)
• 你应该看看这部经典电影。(You should watch this classic film.)

Don't Say

• 这个菜很经典好吃 (Don't stack 经典 with another adjective directly — say 这个菜做得很经典 or 这是一道经典的菜)

Origin & History

Composed of 经 (scripture, warp threads, fundamental) and 典 (canon, standard text), originally referring to authoritative Confucian texts, later broadened to mean any enduring masterwork.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal