焉
equivalent to 'thereupon'; where; then; modal particle; surname
Meanings
5 senses · 25 examplesparticle
equivalent to 'in this'; 'thereupon'
literaryUsed in classical Chinese to combine a preposition and pronoun, indicating location or circumstance.
The mind is not here.
There is no greater kindness than this.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
To recognize a mistake and correct it—there is no greater kindness than this.
To err and correct it—there is no greater kindness than this.
Only after learning do you know your deficiencies; only after teaching do you know your difficulties. Knowing deficiencies allows self-reflection; knowing difficulties allows self-improvement. Thus, teaching and learning enhance each other—this is what it means.
pronoun
where; how (rhetorical)
literaryUsed in classical Chinese rhetorical questions to express doubt or emphasis.
How could this day have come?
How can I not go?
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
If you don’t enter the tiger’s den, how can you get its cub?
No one is a sage—who can be without fault? To err and correct it is the greatest kindness; how can we blame them too much?
The world is vast—how can there be such an unfair thing?
conjunction
then; thus; thereupon
literaryUsed in classical Chinese to indicate sequence or result.
Only when you know where chaos arises can you治理 it.
You know the fact, then you know the reason behind it.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
When you see a virtuous person, strive to be like them; when you see an unvirtuous person, reflect on yourself internally.
He who gains the people’s hearts gains the world; he who loses them loses it—how can we not be careful?
Think thrice before acting—how can there be regret?
particle
modal particle (affirmative tone)
literaryUsed in classical Chinese to end a sentence with an affirmative or conclusive tone.
There are high expectations.
Thus, it was used as a title.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
When the great way prevails, the world is shared by all. Virtuous and capable people are chosen; trust is emphasized and harmony cultivated. Thus, people do not only love their own parents or only care for their own children. The elderly have a secure end, the strong have work, the young are nurtured, widows, orphans, the disabled are cared for. Men have roles, women have homes. Goods are not wasted, nor hoarded. Effort is not held back, nor done for self. Thus, plots vanish, thefts cease, doors need not be locked—this is the Great Harmony.
His words are good—I will follow them.
This is the truth.
noun
surname Yan
neutralRefers to the Chinese surname Yan.
His surname is Yan.
Mr. Yan is our teacher.
Show 3 more examplesShow fewer examples
The Yan family has three children.
I know a doctor surnamed Yan.
The surname Yan is not common in China.