民意

• Pinyin: mín yì
• Hanzi breakdown: 民 = people/citizens; 意 = 音 (sound) + 心 (heart), meaning/intention. The people's intentions.

Meaning

Public opinion; the will of the people; popular sentiment.

Refers to the collective views, wishes, and sentiments of ordinary citizens on public matters. Often used in political and social contexts: 民意调查 (opinion poll), 尊重民意 (respect public opinion), 违背民意 (go against the will of the people). Important concept in discussions of governance and policy.

Examples

1. 这项政策的出台充分考虑了民意，得到了广泛支持。 This policy was introduced with full consideration of public opinion and has received widespread support.
2. 网络时代，民意的表达渠道比以前多得多了。 In the internet age, there are far more channels for expressing public opinion than before.
3. 市长承诺会认真倾听民意，解决老百姓最关心的问题。 The mayor promised to listen carefully to public opinion and address the issues that concern ordinary people most.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, governance, media

Tone: serious

Do Say

• 民意调查显示支持率很高。(Opinion polls show high approval ratings.)
• 政府应该尊重民意。(The government should respect public opinion.)

Don't Say

• 把个人意见称为民意 (民意 refers to collective opinion, not individual views)

Origin & History

Compound of 民 (people) + 意 (meaning/intention/will). The will or intention of the people.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal