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少数服从多数

shǎoshù fúcóng duōshù
idiom★Intermediate💡 the minority must submit to the majority◆idiom
◆ What It Really Means
A principle prioritizing group consensus over individual dissent, emphasizing collective decision-making in organizational or political settings.
¶ Literal Meaning
The minority submits to the majority.
Literal Breakdown
少数minority+服从submit to+多数majority
◇ Mental Image
A mental picture of a small group (minority) yielding to a larger group (majority) in a structured decision-making process, symbolizing harmony through unity.
◈ When to Use
During a company meeting, a small group of employees opposes a proposal, but the majority supports it. The chairperson invokes '少数服从多数' to proceed with the majority's decision.
◉ Cultural Note
This idiom is deeply rooted in Chinese political philosophy, reflecting the Confucian idea of '和为贵' (harmony is precious). It is widely used in both traditional and modern governance structures.
formal

A principle or rule stating that when a group makes a decision, the opinion of the majority should prevail, even if a minority disagrees.

公司决定采用少数服从多数的投票方式来解决分歧。

The company decided to resolve disagreements using a 'the minority must submit to the majority' voting system.

民主社会的核心是少数服从多数,但也要保护少数权利。

The core of a democratic society is 'the minority must submit to the majority,' but minority rights must also be protected.

💡

Often used in organizational decision-making, democratic processes, and group governance.

Collocations

遵循少数服从多数follow the principle of 'the minority must submit to the majority'少数服从多数原则principle of 'the minority must submit to the majority'实行少数服从多数implement the principle of 'the minority must submit to the majority'

Synonyms

少数服从多数原则多数决定制民主决策

Antonyms

一言堂独裁专断

Related Phrases

民主集中制phrase
democratic centralism (a system combining democracy and centralization)
下级服从上级phrase
lower levels must obey higher levels

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This idiom reflects the Chinese cultural emphasis on collective harmony and group cohesion. It is often cited in political or organizational contexts to justify majority decisions.

⚡Gold Rule

When to Use

Use this idiom when discussing decision-making processes in groups, organizations, or democratic systems. It is not used in casual conversations.

📖Word Origin

The phrase originates from Chinese political and organizational contexts, emphasizing collective decision-making. It reflects the Confucian idea of harmony through consensus, where group cohesion is prioritized over individual dissent.

📝Usage Notes

This idiom is commonly used in formal settings such as meetings, organizations, and governance to justify majority rule. It does not imply suppression of minority voices but rather a structured way to reach decisions.

Word Breakdown

少数
minority
word
+
服从
submit to / obey
word
+
多数
majority
word
汉英词典

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