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Confucianism

American  
[kuhn-fyoo-shuh-niz-uhm] / kənˈfyu ʃəˌnɪz əm /

noun

  1. the system of ethics, education, and statesmanship taught by Confucius and his disciples, stressing love for humanity, ancestor worship, reverence for parents, and harmony in thought and conduct.


Confucianism British  
/ kənˈfjuːʃəˌnɪzəm /

noun

  1. the ethical system of Confucius, emphasizing moral order, the humanity and virtue of China's ancient rulers, and gentlemanly education

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Confucianism Cultural  
  1. A system of ethics, founded on the teachings of Confucius, that influenced the traditional culture of China. Confucianism places a high value on learning and stresses family relationships.


Other Word Forms

  • Confucianist noun
  • anti-Confucianism noun
  • pro-Confucianism noun

Etymology

Origin of Confucianism

First recorded in 1860–65; Confucian + -ism

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Indonesia has six officially recognised religions -- Islam, Protestantism, Catholicism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Confucianism.

From BBC

That novel, considered one of the greats of Chinese literature, draws heavily from Chinese mythology as well as Confucianism, Taoist and Buddhist folklore.

From BBC

Preserving the body is considered an important aspect of filial piety within the context of Confucianism, and that precept encourages long hair, forbids suicide and is interpreted as prohibiting tattoos.

From Los Angeles Times

Confucianism – a philosophy of harmony, sincerity and righteous behavior – is considered by many to be the pinnacle of Chinese thought and a guiding force for policymakers.

From Washington Times

For for example, religion — Christianity in particular but Muslim religion, Jewish religion; I don’t know a lot about Confucianism or Buddhism, I know a little — in one way or another they’re grounded in story.

From Washington Post