鉴定

• Pinyin: jiàn dìng
• Hanzi breakdown: 鉴 = 金 (metal) + 监, mirror/examine; 定 = 宀 (roof) + 疋, to determine

Meaning

To appraise; to authenticate; appraisal; identification.

The process of examining and determining the authenticity, quality, or nature of something. Used for antiques, artwork, DNA, handwriting, and other items requiring expert evaluation. Can be a verb or noun.

Examples

1. 这幅画需要送到专业机构进行真伪鉴定。 This painting needs to be sent to a professional institution for authenticity appraisal.
2. 法医通过DNA鉴定确认了受害者的身份。 The forensic doctor confirmed the victim's identity through DNA identification.
3. 他是圈内公认的古董鉴定专家，眼光非常准。 He is a recognized antique appraisal expert in the field with very accurate judgment.

Usage Guide

Context: authentication, legal, professional

Tone: technical

Do Say

• 能帮我鉴定一下这块玉是真是假吗？(Can you help me authenticate whether this jade is real or fake?)
• 鉴定结果需要三到五个工作日。(The appraisal results will take three to five business days.)

Don't Say

• 用鉴定形容简单的判断 (鉴定 implies expert analysis — use 判断 for everyday assessments)

Origin & History

Compound of 鉴 (mirror/to examine) + 定 (to determine). Together meaning 'to examine and determine.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal