classical standard language; correct words
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
standard language in ancient times; classical lingua franca
Refers specifically to the standardized spoken and written language used in ancient China, particularly during the Zhou dynasty and Han dynasties, as opposed to regional dialects. It served as the medium for classical texts, official communication, and Confucian teaching.
Confucius used the standard language when teaching, rather than the dialect of the State of Lu.
During the Zhou dynasty, the standard language was the lingua franca of the Central Plains region.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
The standard language of ancient times was equivalent to today's Putonghua (Mandarin).
noun
correct and proper words; words of reason; valid statements
literaryUsed in literary or formal contexts to describe speech or writing that is correct, reasonable, and well-founded. Often implies moral or intellectual correctness and is contrasted with vulgar or nonsensical speech.
What is recorded in the book consists entirely of correct and proper words, and is worth reading.
The reasonable words he spoke at the meeting won the approval of everyone present.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
As the ancients said, proper language does not enter the marketplace.