Common Meanings
1
yì义
Righteousness; justice; moral principle; a righteous or just act. Often implies a strong sense of moral obligation or public spiritedness, as in defending justice or fulfilling a duty.
面对不公，他总是仗义执言，为弱者争取正义
When faced with injustice, he always speaks out for what is right, fighting for justice for the vulnerable.
Righteousness or public good; pertaining to justice, duty, or charity.
我们应该鼓励大家见义勇为，帮助有需要的人。
We should encourage everyone to act courageously for justice, helping those in need.
Refers to a strong sense of loyalty, righteousness, friendship, or moral obligation to others, often seen in contexts like 'loyalty/chivalry' (义气), 'kindness and obligation' (恩义), or 'obligation as weighty as a mountain' (义重如山).
他这个人很有义气，朋友有难时他一定会伸出援手。
He is a very loyal person; when his friends are in trouble, he will definitely lend a helping hand.
Meaning; significance; the content or implications perceived by people about things.
他提出的建议很有意义。
The suggestion he put forward is very meaningful.
Used to indicate a relationship that is not biological but is treated as such, for example, a sworn father or godparent.
他认张大爷为义父。
He acknowledged Uncle Zhang as his godfather.
Artificial (referring to parts of the human body)
爷爷装了义齿，吃饭方便多了
Grandpa got dentures, and eating is much more convenient now.