财政

• Pinyin: cái zhèng
• Hanzi breakdown: 财 = 贝 (shell/money) + 才, meaning wealth; 政 = 正 (correct) + 攵 (strike), meaning government or politics

Meaning

Public finance; fiscal affairs; government revenue and expenditure. The financial management of governments.

Specifically refers to government-level finance, including taxation, budgeting, and public spending. Common in policy discussions, economic reports, and government departments (财政部 = Ministry of Finance). Distinct from private 财务.

Examples

1. 政府正在调整财政政策以刺激经济增长。 The government is adjusting fiscal policy to stimulate economic growth.
2. 财政赤字问题引发了广泛关注。 The fiscal deficit issue has sparked widespread concern.
3. 地方财政收入主要来源于税收。 Local government revenue mainly comes from taxation.

Usage Guide

Context: government, economics, policy

Tone: official

Do Say

• 财政部发布了新规定。(The Ministry of Finance issued new regulations.)
• 这项措施会增加财政负担。(This measure will increase the fiscal burden.)

Don't Say

• 公司财政状况良好。(For company finances, use 财务 — 财政 is specifically for government)

Origin & History

财 (wealth) + 政 (government, politics). Together meaning the financial administration of government.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated/Professional