一贯

• Pinyin: yī guàn
• Hanzi breakdown: 一 = one; 贯 = 毌 (pierce) + 贝 (shell/money), originally meaning to string coins, now meaning consistent

Meaning

Consistent; all along; as always. Describing behavior or attitude that remains unchanged.

Emphasizes continuity and unchanging nature. Common phrases: 一贯的作风 (consistent style), 一贯主张 (consistent position), 一贯如此 (always been this way). Can be positive (reliable) or negative (stubborn) depending on context.

Examples

1. 他一贯准时，从来没迟到过。 He is always punctual and has never been late.
2. 公司一贯重视员工培训。 The company has always valued employee training.
3. 她的设计风格一贯简约大方。 Her design style has consistently been simple and elegant.

Usage Guide

Context: evaluation, policy, character

Tone: observational

Do Say

• 他一贯认真负责。(He has always been conscientious and responsible.)
• 这是我们一贯的立场。(This is our consistent position.)

Don't Say

• 一贯地好 — 一贯后面直接加形容词或动词，不需要'地'

Origin & History

From classical Chinese meaning 'strung together on one thread' (一 one + 贯 string through). Extended to mean consistent throughout.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal