Mencius

[ men-shee-uhs ]

noun

1. c380–289 b.c., Chinese philosopher.

Mencius

/ ˈmɛnʃɪəs; -ʃəs /

noun

1. Mencius?372 bc?289 bcMChinesePHILOSOPHY: philosopher Chinese name Mengzi or Meng-tze. ?372–?289 bc , Chinese philosopher, who propounded the ethical system of Confucius

Word History and Origins

Origin of Mencius¹

First recorded in 1770–80; Latinization of Chinese Mèng Zǐ “Master Meng” (birth name Mèng Kē) by European Jesuits in China in the 17th century

Example Sentences

And in interviews with state media, Wu quoted Mencius, a Chinese philosopher, casting himself as a scholar concerned with China’s national interest.

From Seattle Times

In interviews with state media, I-Soon’s CEO Wu quoted Mencius, a Chinese philosopher, casting himself as a scholar concerned with China’s national interest.

From Seattle Times

Mr. Bao recalled reading “The Observer,” an influential liberal magazine, as well as Mencius, the ancient Chinese sage, who, he said, “made me understand that people should treat other people also as people.”

From New York Times

Some 2,300 years ago, Chinese sage Mencius wrote, “When heaven sends down calamities, there is hope of weathering them; when man brings them upon himself, there is no hope of escape.”

From Washington Post

Not only did Jesus and the prophets of Israel vehemently denounce those who prayed devoutly while neglecting the poor and oppressed, but Muhammad, Confucius, Mencius, Mahavira, the Buddha and Gandhi all insisted that personal piety was fruitless unless one worked tirelessly to relieve human suffering.

From New York Times