条约

• Pinyin: tiáo yuē
• Hanzi breakdown: 条 = 夂 + 木 — clause; 约 = 纟(silk) + 勺 — agreement, bind

Meaning

Treaty; pact; formal agreement between nations.

A formal written agreement between countries or sovereign entities, often concerning peace, trade, borders, or alliances. More solemn and binding than 协议 (agreement). Historical examples include 不平等条约 (unequal treaties).

Examples

1. 两国签订了和平条约，结束了长达十年的战争。 The two countries signed a peace treaty, ending a decade-long war.
2. 这份贸易条约对双方都有利，促进了经济合作。 This trade treaty benefits both sides and promotes economic cooperation.
3. 近代史上，中国被迫签订了许多不平等条约。 In modern history, China was forced to sign many unequal treaties.

Usage Guide

Context: international relations, history, diplomacy

Tone: official

Do Say

• 签订条约。(Sign a treaty.)
• 遵守条约。(Abide by the treaty.)

Don't Say

• 用'条约'指普通商业合同 (Don't use 条约 for regular business contracts — it's for international agreements; use 合同 instead)

Origin & History

条 means item or clause, 约 means agreement or promise — an agreement with specific terms.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal