真龙
zhēnlóng
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.
What does 真龙 (zhēnlóng) mean?
真龙 (zhēnlóng) means “imperial dragon” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “true dragon.”
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shénlóngdivine dragon (often associated with mythical power)
- 五爪金龙wǔzhǎo jīnlóngfive-clawed golden dragon (specific imperial depiction)
Examples
中国皇帝常被称为真龙天子。
Zhōngguó huángdì cháng bèi chēngwéi zhēnlóng tiānzǐ.
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。
Zhēnlóng shì gǔdài Zhōngguó huángquán de xiàngzhēng.
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 yìshùpǐn shàng diāokèzhe yì tiáo wēiyán de zhēnlóng.
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
黄龙 · Yellow dragon龙王 · Dragon king金龙 · Gold dragon
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