真龙
zhēn lóng
Imperial dragon · trad. 真龍
真龙 (zhēnlóng) refers to the imperial dragon, a powerful and auspicious symbol historically associated with the Emperor of China. It represents divine power, authority, and good fortune, often depicted with five claws.
When to use it
Formal and historical. This term is primarily used in historical contexts, literature, or when discussing traditional Chinese culture and imperial history. It's not a term used in casual conversation about everyday dragons.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “JHEN-long.” “JHEN” is a high, flat tone; “long” is a rising tone.
Other ways to say it
- 龙lóngdragon (general term, often implies imperial context)
- 神龙shén lóngdivine dragon (often associated with mythical power)
- 五爪金龙wǔ zhuǎ jīn lóngfive-clawed golden dragon (specific imperial depiction)
Examples
中国皇帝常被称为真龙天子。
zhōng guó huáng dì cháng bèi chēng wéi zhēn lóng tiān zǐ 。
The Chinese emperor was often called the Son of Heaven, a true dragon.
真龙是古代中国皇权的象征。
zhēn lóng shì gǔ dài zhōng guó huáng quán de xiàng zhēng 。
The imperial dragon is a symbol of ancient Chinese imperial power.
这件艺术品上雕刻着一条威严的真龙。
zhè jiàn yì shù pǐn shàng diāo kè zhe yì tiáo wēi yán de zhēn lóng 。
A majestic imperial dragon is carved on this artwork.
Pro tip: The 'true dragon' (真龙) was exclusively associated with the emperor; commoners were forbidden from using its imagery, especially the five-clawed variant.
Related phrases
龙 · Dragon饺子 · Dumpling金龙 · Gold dragon
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