道
dào · the Way / path / Tao💡 How to pronounce
d → like the 'd' in 'day'. ào → like 'ow' in 'now' but with a falling tone.
📖 The Story
道 is the most important word in Chinese philosophy. It means the Way — the natural order of the universe, the path that everything follows. The character combines 'to go' (辶) and 'head' (首) — the path that your head follows.
🎬 In Culture Today
Daoism (道教) is one of China's native religions, and its influence is everywhere — in martial arts, medicine, painting, and poetry. In movies like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, the characters aren't just fighting — they're following their '道'.
📚 Words
📝 Example Sentences
我知道这个道理。
I understand this principle.
人生是一条漫长的道路。
Life is a long road.