忠贞

• Pinyin: zhōng zhēn
• Hanzi breakdown: 忠 = 中 + 心 (devoted heart); 贞 = 贝 + 卜 (treasure + divination — constancy)

Meaning

Loyal and steadfast; unwavering fidelity. Devotion that remains constant through hardship.

Often used in romantic contexts (忠贞不渝 — unwavering loyalty) and political loyalty. More literary and elevated than 忠诚. Associated with traditional virtues and historical figures who died for their principles.

Examples

1. 她对丈夫忠贞不渝，在他落难时始终不离不弃。 She remained unwaveringly faithful to her husband and never abandoned him when he fell on hard times.
2. 历史上许多仁人志士以忠贞之心报效国家。 Throughout history, many patriots have served the country with steadfast loyalty.
3. 这对夫妻的忠贞爱情感动了无数观众。 This couple’s faithful love has moved countless viewers.

Usage Guide

Context: romance, history, virtues

Tone: elevated

Do Say

• 古代女子被要求对丈夫忠贞，这种观念已经过时。(Ancient women were required to be faithful to their husbands — this notion is outdated.)
• 他以忠贞的品格赢得了众人的敬仰。(He earned everyone's respect with his loyal and steadfast character.)

Don't Say

• 我对公司很忠贞 — too formal/archaic for workplace; use 忠诚 instead; 忠贞 is mainly for romantic or political devotion

Origin & History

忠 (loyal) + 贞 (chaste/steadfast)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal