主权

• Pinyin: zhǔ quán
• Hanzi breakdown: 主 = 丶 + 王 (master); 权 = 木 + 雚 (power, rights)

Meaning

Sovereignty; sovereign rights. The supreme authority of a state over its territory and affairs.

A fundamental concept in international law and politics referring to a nation's independent authority. Includes territorial sovereignty, political sovereignty, and economic sovereignty. Highly sensitive term in diplomatic contexts.

Examples

1. 每个国家都有维护主权的权利。 Every country has the right to safeguard its sovereignty.
2. 领土主权不容侵犯。 Territorial sovereignty must not be violated.
3. 这涉及国家主权问题，不容谈判。 This involves national sovereignty and is not negotiable.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, diplomacy, law

Tone: serious

Do Say

• 国家主权和领土完整是不可触碰的底线。(National sovereignty and territorial integrity are untouchable bottom lines.)
• 联合国尊重各成员国的主权独立。(The United Nations respects the sovereign independence of all member states.)

Don't Say

• 公司主权 — use 自主权 or 决策权 for organizational autonomy

Origin & History

主 (master, primary) + 权 (power, rights)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal