权威
How to Understand
权威 (quán wēi) refers to a person or institution that is recognized as having legitimate power, influence, or expertise in a particular field. It conveys the idea of respected leadership and the ability to make decisions that are widely accepted.
The character 权 (quán) originally meant 'power' or 'right,' while 威 (wēi) means 'might' or 'dignity.' Together, they form a compound that emphasizes both authority and respect, suggesting a position of high status and influence.
权威 is commonly used in contexts such as politics, academia, and professional settings. In Chinese culture, respecting authority is important, and 权威 often represents figures like government officials, experts, or leaders. It can also be used metaphorically to describe established norms or standards.