tóngyì: 同意 - Agree, Consent, Approve

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Summary: Learn how to use “同意” (tóngyì), the essential Chinese word for “to agree,” “consent,” or “approve.” This page breaks down its meaning, cultural significance in seeking harmony, and practical usage in daily conversation and business. Discover the crucial differences between 同意 (tóngyì), 赞成 (zànchéng), and 答应 (dāying) with over 10 clear example sentences to master expressing agreement in Mandarin Chinese.

Pinyin (with tone marks): tóngyì

Part of Speech: Verb

HSK Level: HSK 3

Concise Definition: To agree with, consent to, or approve of an opinion, request, or plan.

In a Nutshell: 同意 (tóngyì) is the most standard and versatile way to express agreement in Chinese. It signifies that you share the same viewpoint as someone else or are giving your permission for something to happen. Think of it as the foundation for reaching a consensus, whether you're agreeing with a friend's idea or a manager is approving a proposal.

同 (tóng): This character means “same,” “alike,” or “together.” Its ancient form depicts a covered container and a mouth (口), suggesting people gathered together and speaking with one voice.

意 (yì): This character means “idea,” “thought,” or “intention.” It's a combination of “sound” (音) on top and “heart” (心) on the bottom. It beautifully represents the “sound of one's heart”—their true thoughts and feelings.

Together, 同意 (tóngyì) literally means “same idea” or “shared intention,” which perfectly captures the essence of agreement.

In many Chinese social and business contexts, achieving a state of 同意 (tóngyì) is highly valued as it relates to the core cultural concept of 和谐 (héxié) - harmony. The goal of a discussion is often not to “win” an argument but to find common ground and reach a consensus that everyone can accept. Expressing 同意 is a way to build rapport and maintain smooth relationships.

Comparison to Western Culture: While in English, “I agree” is a straightforward statement of fact, in Chinese, expressing 同意 can also carry the weight of granting permission or joining a group consensus. The Western phrase “let's agree to disagree” doesn't have a direct, commonly used equivalent in Chinese culture, as the focus is typically on resolving differences to arrive at a shared understanding, rather than highlighting a persistent disagreement. Stating 不同意 (bù tóngyì - I don't agree) can be more direct and potentially disruptive to group harmony than its English counterpart, so it's often softened with phrases like “Let me think about it” or by proposing an alternative.

Formality: 同意 is a neutral term suitable for a wide range of situations, from casual conversations to formal business meetings. In very informal chats, friends might simply use 嗯 (èn), 对 (duì - right), or 行 (xíng - okay), but 同意 is always a clear and appropriate choice.

Giving Permission: It is very common for people in a position of authority (parents, teachers, managers) to use 同意 to grant permission or approve a request.

Expressing Opinion: It's the standard way to state that your opinion aligns with someone else's.

不同意 (bù tóngyì) - The direct antonym: to disagree, to not consent.

赞成 (zànchéng) - A close synonym implying active support or being “in favor of” something.

反对 (fǎnduì) - A strong antonym meaning “to oppose” or “to be against,” much more forceful than 不同意.

答应 (dāying) - To agree to a request, to promise to do something.

批准 (pīzhǔn) - A very formal word for “to approve” or “ratify,” used by someone with official authority.

许可 (xǔkě) - To permit, grant a license for. Similar to 批准 but often used for official permits.

可以 (kěyǐ) - “Can,” “may,” “be allowed to.” A common, less formal way to give permission.

没问题 (méi wèntí) - “No problem.” A very casual and common way to agree to a task or request.

和谐 (héxié) - The cultural concept of harmony, which is often the underlying goal of seeking and giving 同意.