格物致知

Pronunciation: gé wù zhì zhī Literal meaning: Investigate things to gain knowledge

Origin & Usage

The idiom 格物致知 (gé wù zhì zhī) originates from the classical Confucian text 《礼记·大学》 (Lǐ Jì · Dà Xué), attributed to the Western Han period. It describes the pursuit of understanding the principles of things (格, gé) to achieve knowledge (致知, zhì zhī). The text outlines a process where one must first investigate things to extend knowledge, which then leads to sincerity of intention, rectification of the mind, cultivation of personal life, regulation of the family, governance of the state, and ultimately, peace in the world. This idiom emphasizes the importance of empirical investigation and understanding as the foundation of wisdom and moral development. In modern contexts, it is often used to encourage a scientific and methodical approach to learning and problem-solving, akin to the Western scientific method.

Examples

English: "He believes that thorough research leads to true knowledge."

Chinese: 他相信深入研究能获得真正的知识。