和睦

• Pinyin: hé mù
• Hanzi breakdown: 和 = 禾 + 口 — harmony; 睦 = 目 (eye) + 坴 component — to regard one another kindly and amicably

Meaning

Harmonious; peaceful and amicable in relations. Describes a state of mutual goodwill, tranquility, and absence of conflict.

Primarily used to describe family relationships, neighborly relations, or group dynamics. 家庭和睦 is a deeply valued cultural ideal in Chinese society. Also applied to community relations, interethnic relations, and diplomatic relations. Conveys a stable, warm atmosphere of mutual respect and genuine affection.

Examples

1. 家庭和睦是幸福生活的基础，任何财富都无法取代家人间的温情与信任。 A harmonious family is the foundation of a happy life; no amount of wealth can replace the warmth and trust between relatives.
2. 这个多民族聚居的小镇各族居民和睦相处，从未发生过严重的民族纠纷。 In this small town where many ethnic groups live together, residents have always gotten along peacefully, and there have never been serious ethnic disputes.
3. 邻里关系和睦，生活才会更加安心舒适，这是古今中外共同认可的道理。 When neighbors get along, life feels safer and more comfortable—something people everywhere have recognized throughout history.

Usage Guide

Context: family, community, social relations, diplomacy

Tone: warm

Do Say

• 父母关系和睦，对孩子的心理健康发展有着深远而积极的影响。(Harmonious parental relations have a profound and positive impact on the psychological development of children.)
• 各部门之间和睦协作、互相支持，是这家公司高效运转的关键所在。(Harmonious cooperation and mutual support between departments is the key to this company's efficient operation.)

Don't Say

• 和睦 for harmony in abstract or mechanical systems — use 协调 or 统一; 和睦 specifically describes interpersonal or relational harmony among people

Origin & History

和 (harmonious; gentle; peaceful) + 睦 (close and harmonious — as between brothers; amicable in a kinship sense)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal