纲常

noun

three cardinal guides and five constant virtues; Confucian ethical code

Refers to the core ethical principles and social norms in traditional Confucian thought. The 'three cardinal guides' define hierarchical relationships: ruler guides subject, father guides son, husband guides wife. The 'five constant virtues' are benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and fidelity. This term is primarily used in historical or philosophical contexts.