致敬

• Pinyin: zhì jìng
• Hanzi breakdown: 致 = express; 敬 = 苟 + 攵 (careful action — respect)

Meaning

To pay tribute; to salute; to show respect. A formal expression of honour or admiration.

Used for honouring heroes, predecessors, or achievements. 向英雄致敬 (pay tribute to heroes), 致敬经典 (pay homage to classics). Common in ceremonies, media, and commemorations. Implies sincere, often public respect.

Examples

1. 全国人民向在抗疫中牺牲的医护人员致敬。 People across the country paid tribute to the medical workers who sacrificed their lives during the pandemic response.
2. 这部电影向经典武侠片致敬，融入了许多怀旧元素。 This film pays tribute to classic martial-arts movies, incorporating many nostalgic elements.
3. 运动员在领奖台上向国旗致敬，眼中满含热泪。 On the podium, the athlete saluted the national flag, tears welling in their eyes.

Usage Guide

Context: commemoration, ceremonies, media

Tone: respectful

Do Say

• 让我们向所有默默奉献的劳动者致敬。(Let us pay tribute to all the workers who contribute silently.)
• 这首歌曲是向已故音乐家的致敬之作。(This song is a tribute to the late musician.)

Don't Say

• 我向老师致敬了 — in daily life, use 表示敬意 or 感谢; 致敬 is for formal, public expressions of respect

Origin & History

致 (express/deliver) + 敬 (respect)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal