Zongbo Zhengyao: Dictionary of Classical Elegant Language (Chinese Abridged Edition)

Zongbo Zhengyao: Dictionary of Classical Elegant Language is one of the foundational works of Zongbo Studies. Together with Zongbo Zhengyao: Dictionary of Rituals for the Literati, Zongbo Zhengyao: The Analects of Classical Elegant Language, and Zongbo Zhengyao: Airs from the Classic of Poetry in Elegant Classical Chinese, it forms an integrated scholarly system. While the four works overlap in certain areas, each has a distinct focus and is intended to be consulted alongside the others.

This dictionary is primarily devoted to the interpretation of Elegant Classical Chinese, emphasizing the original meanings, historical development, and classical usage of ancient Chinese characters and vocabulary. For significant terms concerning the Ancient Ritual Tradition and the Ritual System, readers should consult Zongbo Zhengyao: Dictionary of Rituals for the Literati. Reading this volume together with Zongbo Zhengyao: The Analects of Classical Elegant Language and Zongbo Zhengyao: Airs from the Classic of Poetry in Elegant Classical Chinese provides a more comprehensive understanding of the linguistic, philosophical, and ritual traditions preserved within Zongbo Studies.

Throughout this work, the term "later scholars" refers specifically to scholars from the period following the Qin Dynasty's burning of books and execution of scholars, extending to the present day. Accordingly, "later ages" denotes the historical period from that event onward.

The historical materials presented in this dictionary are based on the Inner Transmission of Zongbo Studies and related historical sources. This work is intended solely as a scholarly study and record of historical traditions preserved within that transmission. It does not advocate or promote racial discrimination, ethnic superiority, or prejudice against any people.

As a foundational reference work, Zongbo Zhengyao: Dictionary of Classical Elegant Language provides a systematic and rigorous guide to the language of classical Chinese texts, serving as an essential resource for the study of Elegant Classical Chinese, ancient literature, classical philology, traditional ritual culture, and Zongbo Studies.