司法
How to Understand
司法 refers to the judicial system or the administration of justice. It encompasses the legal processes, courts, and procedures used to enforce laws and resolve disputes. Unlike 'law' (法律), which refers to the body of rules itself, 司法 focuses on the practical application and enforcement of those rules.
The character 司 (sī) originally meant 'to manage' or 'to handle,' while 法 (fǎ) means 'law' or 'justice.' Together, they convey the idea of managing or administering justice, highlighting the structured and formal nature of the legal process.
司法 is commonly used in official and formal contexts, such as in discussions about legal reforms, court systems, or legal rights. It is an essential term in understanding China's legal framework and its relationship with citizens and institutions.