违反

• Pinyin: wéi fǎn
• Hanzi breakdown: 违 = 辶 (walk) + 韦, to violate; 反 = 厂 + 又, opposite/contrary

Meaning

To violate; to go against; to breach.

A general term for violating rules, regulations, agreements, or principles. Broader than 违法 which specifically refers to laws. Can apply to contracts, company policies, social norms, or any established rules. Common in both formal and everyday contexts.

Examples

1. 他因为违反公司规定被开除了。 He was fired for violating company regulations.
2. 这种做法违反了合同条款，我们有权追究责任。 This practice violates the contract terms, and we have the right to pursue liability.
3. 违反交通规则可能导致严重的事故。 Violating traffic rules may lead to serious accidents.

Usage Guide

Context: rules, agreements, workplace

Tone: serious

Do Say

• 违反规定。(Violate regulations.)
• 违反合同。(Breach the contract.)

Don't Say

• 违反他 to mean opposing a person — use 反对 for opposing someone; 违反 is for rules and agreements

Origin & History

Compound of 违 (violate/go against) + 反 (oppose/contrary), meaning to act contrary to.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal