zhèng

The Mandarin Chinese character "zhèng" (正) is a multifaceted character with a variety of meanings and uses. Primarily, it signifies "correct," "proper," or "right." This fundamental meaning extends to concepts of justice, legality, and uprightness. For example, "zhèngquè" (正确) means "correct" or "accurate," and "zhèngyì" (正义) translates to "justice."

Beyond its core meaning of correctness, "zhèng" can also indicate "straight," "upright," or "even." In this sense, it describes physical alignment or a lack of deviation. "Zhízhèng" (直正) means "straight and upright." It can also refer to the principal or main aspect of something, as in "zhèngfū" (正负), meaning "positive" (as opposed to negative).

In terms of grammar, "zhèng" can function as an adverb to emphasize that something is precisely or exactly the case. For instance, "zhèng shì" (正是) means "exactly" or "precisely." It can also be used as a verb meaning to "correct" or "rectify" something that is wrong. Furthermore, "zhèng" is frequently employed in names and as a component in many compound words, reflecting its broad utility in the Chinese language. Its prevalence underscores its importance in conveying fundamental concepts of order, truth, and correctness.