义务 — meaning in English: obligation

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Guess the translation for obligation

沙漠

shāmò

短缺

duǎnquē

梁

liáng

采访

cǎifǎng

义务

yìwù

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use '义务' when discussing responsibilities in both personal and professional settings. For instance, a parent might explain the obligation to take care of their children, or a manager might discuss the obligations employees have to meet project deadlines.

Synonyms & nuances

'义务' generally refers to a moral or social obligation, while '责任' (zérèn) signifies a responsibility often tied to specific roles or tasks. You would choose '义务' when discussing broader ethical duties, whereas '责任' is more about designated responsibilities.

Culture

'义务' is rooted in Confucian philosophy, which emphasizes duty and responsibility towards family and society. This term reflects the deep-seated values in Chinese culture regarding interpersonal obligations and social harmony, making it essential in conversations about ethics and morality.

FAQ

Q.What does '义务' mean in English?

'义务' translates to 'obligation' in English, indicating a duty or a moral responsibility one should fulfill.

Q.How is '义务' used in a sentence?

You might say, '作为父母，我们有义务教育孩子。' which means, 'As parents, we have the obligation to educate our children.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using '义务'?

'义务' should not be confused with '责任'; while they are related, using them interchangeably can lead to misunderstandings about the type of duty being discussed.

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