通行证

• Pinyin: tōng xíng zhèng
• Hanzi breakdown: 通 = through; 行 = go; 证 = 讠 + 正 — certificate, permit

Meaning

Pass; permit; laissez-passer; travel document.

An official document granting permission to enter, pass through, or access a restricted area. Used literally for border passes, building access permits, or metaphorically for qualifications that grant access.

Examples

1. 进入施工现场必须出示通行证，否则保安不会放行。 You must show a pass to enter the construction site — otherwise security won't let you through.
2. 港澳通行证的有效期是十年，记得及时续签。 The Hong Kong-Macau travel permit is valid for ten years — remember to renew it on time.
3. 在这个行业，人脉就是最好的通行证。 In this industry, connections are the best pass you can have.

Usage Guide

Context: travel, security, bureaucracy

Tone: practical

Do Say

• 办通行证。(Apply for a pass.)
• 出示通行证。(Show your pass.)

Don't Say

• 把普通身份证叫'通行证' (通行证 is for special access permits — regular ID is 身份证)

Origin & History

通行 means to pass through, 证 means certificate — a certificate to pass through.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal