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Confucius

kuhn-FYOO-shuhs

Confucius (name) means a Chinese philosopher (c. 551-479 BCE) whose teachings on ethics, family, and social order shaped Chinese thought for over two thousand years. Example: “Confucius taught that respect for one's elders was the foundation of a stable society.”

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A Chinese philosopher (c. 551-479 BCE) whose teachings on ethics, family, and social order shaped Chinese thought for over two thousand years.
"Confucius taught that respect for one's elders was the foundation of a stable society."

How to use Confucius

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe famous ancient Chinese philosopher behind Confucianism.

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_____ taught that respect for one's elders was the foundation of a stable society.

Etymology

A Latinised form of the Mandarin honorific title Kong Fuzi ("Master Kong"), created by early European missionaries and scholars.

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for Confucius

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Frequently asked questions

What does “Confucius” mean?

The word “Confucius” means a Chinese philosopher (c. 551-479 BCE) whose teachings on ethics, family, and social order shaped Chinese thought for over two thousand years. In plain terms, the famous ancient Chinese philosopher behind Confucianism.

How do you pronounce “Confucius”?

“Confucius” is pronounced kuhn-FYOO-shuhs (/kənˈfju.ʃəs/ in IPA).

How do you use “Confucius” in a sentence?

Here is “Confucius” used in a sentence: “Confucius taught that respect for one's elders was the foundation of a stable society.”

What part of speech is “Confucius”?

“Confucius” is a name.

Where does the word “Confucius” come from?

The word “Confucius” comes from Latin. A Latinised form of the Mandarin honorific title Kong Fuzi ("Master Kong"), created by early European missionaries and scholars.

Is “Confucius” a common word?

“Confucius” is an uncommon word in modern English.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial