Understanding "义务" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 义务
• Pinyin: yì wù
• Literal Meaning: "义" (yì) means "duty" or "moral obligation," and "务" (wù) means "task" or "affair." Together, they form the concept of "obligation" or "responsibility."
• Primary Meaning: Refers to a duty, obligation, or responsibility that one is morally or legally bound to fulfill. It can also describe voluntary work done without payment (e.g., "volunteer service").

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• Legal/Moral Duty: Used to describe responsibilities required by law or ethics (e.g., paying taxes, parental duties).
• Voluntary Work: Refers to unpaid services or activities done for the benefit of others (e.g., community service).

• Often appears in phrases like "履行义务" (lǚ xíng yì wù, "fulfill an obligation") or "义务教育" (yì wù jiào yù, "compulsory education").

• Character Breakdown:

• 义 (yì): Righteousness, morality, or duty.
• 务 (wù): Task, work, or affair.
  Together, they emphasize a task tied to moral or societal expectations.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 公民有纳税的义务。
   Pinyin: Gōngmín yǒu nàshuì de yìwù.
   English: Citizens have the obligation to pay taxes.

2. Chinese: 他周末参加义务劳动。
   Pinyin: Tā zhōumò cānjiā yìwù láodòng.
   English: He volunteers for community service on weekends.

3. Chinese: 父母有抚养孩子的义务。
   Pinyin: Fùmǔ yǒu fǔyǎng háizi de yìwù.
   English: Parents have the duty to raise their children.

Cultural Notes

• In China, "义务" is strongly tied to Confucian values, which emphasize societal and familial duties.
• The term "义务教育" (compulsory education) reflects the government's emphasis on education as a societal obligation.
• Volunteerism (义务工作, yìwù gōngzuò) is increasingly promoted in modern Chinese society, especially among youth.

Conclusion

"义务" (yì wù) encapsulates both mandatory duties and voluntary contributions, reflecting moral, legal, and societal expectations. Remember it as a blend of "obligation" and "service," depending on context.