正宗

• Pinyin: zhèng zōng
• Hanzi breakdown: 正 = 一 + 止 (correct); 宗 = 宀 + 示 (ancestral temple)

Meaning

Authentic; genuine; orthodox. The original lineage or true tradition.

Emphasizes authenticity and adherence to original standards, especially for food, martial arts, cultural practices, or traditional crafts. Implies legitimacy and purity of origin.

Examples

1. 这家店的川菜非常正宗。 The Sichuan food at this place is very authentic.
2. 他学的是正宗的太极拳。 He learned authentic tai chi.
3. 正宗的意大利披萨必须用柴火烤制。 Authentic Italian pizza has to be baked in a wood-fired oven.

Usage Guide

Context: food, culture, traditions

Tone: approving

Do Say

• 这位师傅做的是正宗粤式点心。(This chef makes authentic Cantonese dim sum.)
• 要学正宗的书法就得拜名师。(To learn authentic calligraphy, you must study under a renowned master.)

Don't Say

• 我正宗地去学校 — 正宗 is an adjective for authenticity, not an adverb for manner

Origin & History

正 (correct/true) + 宗 (sect/lineage)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal