民主

• Pinyin: mín zhǔ
• Hanzi breakdown: 民 = pictograph of an eye with something inserted — the common people; 主 = lamp with flame — master

Meaning

Democracy; democratic. A system of government by the people or the principle of political equality.

Refers to both the political system where citizens have power and the quality of being open to input from others. In political contexts, describes democratic governance. In everyday contexts, can describe leadership styles that welcome participation and input from group members.

Examples

1. 我们团队的决策过程很民主，每个人都有发言的机会。 Our team's decision-making process is very democratic — everyone has a chance to speak.
2. 民主与法治是现代社会的重要基石。 Democracy and rule of law are important cornerstones of modern society.
3. 他管理公司的方式很民主，鼓励员工提出不同意见。 His way of managing the company is very democratic, encouraging employees to voice different opinions.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, management, social discussion

Tone: formal

Do Say

• 这个决定是民主讨论的结果。(This decision was the result of democratic discussion.)
• 领导应该更民主一些。(Leadership should be more democratic.)

Don't Say

• 我很民主你的意见。(民主 is not a verb — say 我尊重你的意见 or 我欢迎你的意见)

Origin & History

Compound of 民 (people, citizens) and 主 (master, main). Literally 'people as masters,' translating the Western concept of democracy in the late 19th century.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal