sacrifice one's life; authorize a command
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesverb
to sacrifice one's life; to lay down one's life
literaryLiterary and formal usage. Often used in classical or formal contexts to describe dying for one's country or duty. Common collocations include 见危授命 (to sacrifice one's life when facing danger) and 临危授命 (to lay down one's life in the face of peril). Distinguished from 受命 (to receive orders), which sounds identical but means the opposite.
To sacrifice one's life when facing danger is the true character of a loyal minister.
The general laid down his life in the face of peril, dying a heroic death.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
He gave his life to save the drowning child.
verb
to authorize; to commission; to issue orders (esp. by a head of state)
formalFormal usage. Typically refers to a president, monarch, or other head of state formally ordering or authorizing someone to undertake a task, such as forming a cabinet. Must be distinguished from 受命 (to receive orders), which is a homophone but represents the opposite action.
The president authorized the prime minister to form a cabinet.
The king commissioned him to establish a new government.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
The president ordered the ambassador to proceed to negotiations.