Definition
大臣 (dàchén) is a general term for a high-ranking official in a monarchy, like a minister or court official. 功臣 (gōngchén) is a narrower term: a minister who has performed meritorious service for the emperor, often with historical recognition; today it can also mean a key contributor in any field.
noun
high-ranking official in a monarchyminister
Examples
- 大臣，。Gǔdài dà chén de quánlì hěn dà, yǒushí shènzhì chāoguò huángdì.In ancient times, ministers had great power, sometimes even surpassing the emperor.
- 大臣。Zhè wèi dà chén xiàng guówáng tíchū le gǎigé jiànyì.This minister proposed reform suggestions to the king.
- 大臣。Cháotíng zhōng jǐ wèi dà chén yīnwèi yìjiàn bù hé ér zhēngchǎo.Several ministers in the court argued because of differing opinions.
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