Confucius

[kuhn-fyoo-shuhs]

noun

1. Kǔng Qiū, 551? b.c.–478? b.c., Chinese philosopher and teacher.

Confucius

/ kənˈfjuːʃəs /

noun

1. Chinese name Kong Zi or K'ung Fu-tse. 551–479 _bc , Chinese philosopher and teacher of ethics (see Confucianism ). His doctrines were compiled after his death under the title The Analects of Confucius

Confucius

1. A Chinese philosopher of the sixth century b.c.; the founder of Confucianism. His teachings have come down to us as a collection of short sayings.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Confucius¹

First recorded in 1770–80; Latinization of Chinese Kǔng Fūzǐ “Master Kung” (birth name Kǔng Qiū ) by European Jesuits in China in the 17th century

Example Sentences

In her book, Dunlop cites one of her readers suggesting that Beijing could more effectively project its soft power by "changing its controversial overseas Confucius Institutes into top-notch Chinese restaurants".

From BBC

Some academics reported intimidation by visiting scholars or other Chinese officials, as well as by staff at Confucius Institutes.

From BBC

China has slowly expanded its soft power by opening its first Confucius Institute in the country and providing a grant to build a railway.

From BBC

The sprawling complex reportedly includes a Confucius Institute, workshops, exhibitions, offices, residential space and a hotel.

From Seattle Times

Joan of Arc is an angsty Goth, and Confucius is sweet and a little dim, with a fondness for social media.

From Seattle Times