fǎnxǐng: 反省 - To Reflect, To Self-Examine, Introspection

• Keywords: 反省, fǎnxǐng, fanxing, Chinese self-reflection, Chinese introspection, 反省 meaning, how to use 反省, self-criticism in Chinese culture, moral reflection, self-examination, Chinese philosophy
• Summary: Learn the deep meaning of 反省 (fǎnxǐng), a core Chinese term for self-examination and introspection. More than just “to reflect,” fǎnxǐng involves a serious look at one's own actions and thoughts to identify faults and improve oneself. This guide breaks down its cultural roots in Confucianism, its practical use in modern China—from parenting to business—and how it differs from simple English “reflection.”

• Pinyin (with tone marks): fǎnxǐng
• Part of Speech: Verb
• HSK Level: HSK 5
• Concise Definition: To engage in introspection or self-examination, typically with a focus on identifying and correcting one's own faults or mistakes.
• In a Nutshell: 反省 (fǎnxǐng) isn't casual daydreaming or reminiscing. It's a focused, active process of looking inward after something has happened—usually a mistake, argument, or failure. It carries a sense of personal responsibility and the desire for self-improvement. Think of it as a personal debriefing session to figure out “Where did I go wrong, and how can I do better next time?”

• 反 (fǎn): This character means “to turn back,” “reverse,” or “opposite.” It depicts a hand (又) turning over a cliff (厂).
• 省 (xǐng): This character means “to examine,” “to inspect,” or “to be aware of.” It's composed of a small eye (目) looking at something, implying careful observation. (Note: This character is also pronounced `shěng` when it means “province” or “to save/omit.”)
• Together, 反省 (fǎnxǐng) literally means “to turn back and examine.” This beautifully captures the essence of looking back upon your own past behavior to scrutinize it.

**反省 (fǎnxǐng