廉洁

• Pinyin: lián jié
• Hanzi breakdown: 廉 = 广 + 兼 (restrained/honest — shelter with moderation); 洁 = 氵 + 吉 (clean — water with auspiciousness)

Meaning

Honest and clean; incorrupt; free from greed or wrongdoing. Describes a person or organisation that does not engage in corruption or abuse of power.

Central value in Chinese political discourse, especially regarding public officials. Often appears in 廉洁奉公 (honest in serving the public) and 廉洁自律 (self-disciplined and incorrupt). A key term in anti-corruption campaigns and party discipline contexts.

Examples

1. 这位官员以廉洁著称，从未利用职权谋取私利。 This official is known for integrity and has never used his position for personal gain.
2. 廉洁从政是每一位公职人员必须坚守的基本原则。 Governing with integrity is a basic principle every public servant must uphold.
3. 公司建立了完善的廉洁管理制度，杜绝了各种违规行为。 The company established a robust integrity management system, preventing all kinds of violations.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, governance, anti-corruption

Tone: serious

Do Say

• 他始终保持廉洁本色，即便在权力最集中的岗位上也未曾动摇。(He always maintained his incorrupt character, never wavering even in positions of greatest authority.)
• 廉洁文化的建设需要制度约束与价值引导双管齐下。(Building a culture of integrity requires both institutional restraints and value guidance working in tandem.)

Don't Say

• 用'廉洁'形容商品或服务的卫生状况 — 描述物品清洁应用'干净'或'洁净'，廉洁专指人的品格或组织的作风

Origin & History

廉 (frugal/honest) + 洁 (clean/pure)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal