dàolǐ: 道理 - Reason, Principle, Sense, Truth

Keywords: daoli meaning, 道理, Chinese word for reason, you daoli, jiang daoli, Chinese logic, Chinese philosophy, what is daoli, make sense in Chinese, unreasonable in Chinese, 道理 vs 原因, HSK 4 vocabulary

Summary: Discover the deep meaning of 道理 (dàolǐ), a fundamental Chinese word that goes beyond “reason” to encompass principle, logic, and the inherent “rightness” of a situation. This page breaks down what it means to be reasonable (讲道理), why something “makes sense” (有道理), and how this concept is deeply rooted in Chinese culture. Learn how to use it correctly to sound more natural and persuasive in everyday conversation.

Pinyin (with tone marks): dàolǐ

Part of Speech: Noun

HSK Level: HSK 4

Concise Definition: The underlying reason, principle, or logic that makes something correct, justifiable, and sensible.

In a Nutshell: 道理 (dàolǐ) is the “sense” in “that makes sense.” It isn't just a factual cause; it's the justification, the moral or logical foundation that makes an idea or action understandable and acceptable. If something has 道理, it aligns with logic, common sense, and often a sense of fairness. If it lacks 道理, it's considered unreasonable, absurd, or unfair.

道 (dào): This character famously means “the Way” or “path.” It represents a course, a method, or a fundamental principle of the universe (as in Taoism/道教). Think of it as the correct path to follow.

理 (lǐ): This character originally depicted the patterns or veins in a piece of jade. It has come to mean “logic,” “reason,” “principle,” or “to manage.” It represents the inherent pattern or order within things.

When combined, 道理 (dàolǐ) literally means the “way of reason” or the “path of principles.” It signifies the universal, logical, and often moral path that makes things work and feel right.

In Chinese culture, 道理 is a cornerstone of persuasion, conflict resolution, and social harmony. An argument is won not just with facts, but by demonstrating that your position aligns with 道理. Someone who refuses to listen to 道理 (不讲道理) is seen as stubborn, childish, or brutish.

Comparison to Western “Reason”: While “reason” or “logic” in the West can be a cold, purely analytical process, 道理 is often warmer and more holistic. It blends pure logic with common sense, fairness, and what is socially and ethically appropriate. For example, you could construct a logically flawless argument to take the last piece of cake, but your friends might say you are being unreasonable (你这样做没道理!) because it violates the unwritten social rule of sharing. 道理 bridges the gap between what is logically possible and what is humanly right. It is deeply connected to the cultural value of finding a harmonious and fair solution for everyone involved.

道理 is extremely common in daily conversation. It's used to express agreement, disagreement, and to persuade others.

Expressing Agreement: The most common phrase is 有道理 (yǒu dàolǐ), which literally means “has reason.” It's the perfect way to say “That makes sense,” “You've got a point,” or “That's reasonable.”

Expressing Disagreement: The opposite is 没道理 (méi dàolǐ), meaning “has no reason.” Use this to say “That's unreasonable,” “That makes no sense,” or “That's absurd.”

Discussing and Persuading: The verb phrase 讲道理 (jiǎng dàolǐ) means “to reason with someone,” “to talk sense,” or “to be reasonable.” It's often used when you feel someone is being irrational. For example, “我们坐下来讲讲道理” (Let's sit down and talk this through reasonably).

Lecturing (Slightly Negative): The phrase 大道理 (dà dàolǐ), or “big principles,” can refer to profound truths, but it's often used with a slightly negative connotation to describe when someone is lecturing you with abstract, high-sounding platitudes that aren't very practical. For example, “别跟我讲这些大道理” (Don't give me all that preachy talk).

原因 (yuányīn) - The direct, factual cause of an event. Answers “why,” whereas 道理 explains why it's “right” or “sensible.”

原则 (yuánzé) - A firm principle, rule, or tenet, often personal or organizational. Less about universal logic and more about a stated code of conduct.

逻辑 (luójí) - A direct loanword for “logic.” It's more academic and technical, referring to the formal system of reasoning. 道理 is broader and includes common sense and fairness.

理由 (lǐyóu) - A reason, excuse, or grounds for doing something. It's the specific justification you give for your own actions.

讲理 (jiǎnglǐ) - A verb, nearly identical to 讲道理, meaning “to be reasonable” or “to reason.” It's slightly more colloquial.

真理 (zhēnlǐ) - “Truth.” This is much stronger and more absolute than 道理. 真理 refers to ultimate, objective truths (e.g., scientific or philosophical truths), while 道理 can be situational.

情理 (qínglǐ) - A concept blending 情 (qíng - feeling, human sentiment) and 理 (lǐ - reason). Something that is “合情合理” (héqíng hélǐ) is both emotionally appropriate and logically sound.

常理 (chánglǐ) - Common sense; a principle or reason that everyone should know. “按常理说…” (According to common sense…).