Looking up...
原意
yuányì
original meaning
他说话的原意并不是这个。
His original intention in speaking wasn't this.
formal
The original or intended meaning of a word, phrase, or statement before it was altered, misunderstood, or used in a different context.
这个词在古代的原意和现在不同。
The original meaning of this word in ancient times differs from its modern usage.
请你说明一下这句话的原意。
Please explain the original meaning of this sentence.
Often used to clarify misinterpretations or historical shifts in meaning.
Pro Tip
Distinguishing 原意 from 本意
While both 原意 and 本意 can mean 'original intention,' 原意 emphasizes the historical or linguistic original meaning, whereas 本意 focuses more on the speaker's personal original intention or purpose.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
When discussing 原意, always consider the historical, cultural, or situational context in which the word or phrase was used to avoid anachronistic interpretations.
Word Origin
Composed of 原 (yuán, 'original') and 意 (yì, 'meaning/intention'), reflecting the concept of the earliest or intended meaning of a word or statement.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in discussions about language evolution, translations, or correcting misinterpretations. Often appears in academic, legal, or literary contexts where precision in meaning is critical.
Word Breakdown
原
original, primary, or earliest
root意
meaning, intention, or idea
root汉英词典