臣
official; subject; royal self-reference
Meanings
3 senses · 15 examplesnoun
official (in feudal times); subject
formal, archaicUsed exclusively in pre-modern Chinese contexts referring to feudal court officials or common subjects under a monarch.
A loyal official will defend his country to the death.
In ancient times, monarchs discussed state affairs with their officials.
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Only when the monarch and his officials share the same goal can the country be well governed.
In ancient times, 'chen' also referred to ordinary common people.
This loyal official left behind many传世 stories.
noun
self-reference of officials to emperor
archaic, formalUsed exclusively by feudal officials when addressing or submitting documents to the emperor, equivalent to 'your servant' or 'I' in formal royal address.
Your servant reports to Your Majesty, this matter needs to be carefully considered over time.
I, your servant, am reporting this to Your Majesty.
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When facing the emperor, officials often refer to themselves as 'chen'.
Your servant dare not speak recklessly, please make the final decision, Your Majesty.
In memorials to the emperor, officials often start with 'chen'.
noun
surname Chen
neutralA common Chinese family name.
Mr. Chen is my colleague.
Teacher Chen teaches history at the university.
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The Chen family name is one of the older surnames in China.
I know a friend named Chen Ming.
My family's ancestral home is in Henan.