Definition
大同 has two distinct meanings: first, a classical Confucian political concept describing an ideal harmonious society or utopia, often appearing in phrases like 天下大同 ('the whole world as one harmonious whole'). Second, it is the name of a major city in Shanxi province (Datong), famous for its Yungang Grottoes and coal industry. The two senses are unrelated, so context determines which one is intended.
noun
Great Harmonya Confucian ideal of a utopian societyDatonga city in Shanxi Province
Examples
- “大同”。Kǒngzǐ tíchū de “Dà tóng” sīxiǎng yǐngxiǎng le Zhōngguó jǐ qiān nián.The concept of 'Great Harmony' proposed by Confucius has influenced China for thousands of years.
- 大同。Wǒmen zuò huǒchē qù Dà tóng kàn Yúngāng Shíkū.We're taking the train to Datong to see the Yungang Grottoes.
- 大同。Shìjiè Dà tóng shì xǔduō rén de mèngxiǎng.Worldwide Great Harmony is a dream for many people.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.