非礼 is deeply connected to the foundational Confucian concept of 礼 (lǐ). In Western culture, we think of “etiquette” or “manners” as polite social customs. However, 礼 is a much deeper concept, encompassing the entire framework of social hierarchy, ritual, and moral conduct that was believed to create a harmonious and stable society. An act of 非礼 was therefore not just a personal insult but a disruption of social order. This historical weight is still felt today, which is why the term carries such gravity. A useful Western comparison is the concept of “improper conduct” or “a violation of protocol,” but amplified with a strong moral and social dimension. For example, a soldier failing to salute a superior is a “violation of protocol.” An employee harassing a colleague is “improper conduct” or “sexual harassment.” 非礼 in modern China leans heavily towards the latter, but it carries the extra cultural weight of violating a deeply ingrained code of social harmony (礼). It's less of a legalistic term and more of a socio-moral one.
In modern usage, the broad, classical meaning has largely been replaced by a more specific and severe one.
This is the most common usage today. It refers to unwanted physical contact, groping, or molestation. It is a very serious accusation used in daily life, on social media, and in news reports about sexual harassment or assault.
In some contexts, it can describe behavior that is shockingly out of line, even if not physical. For example, making an extremely lewd or offensive joke at a formal event could be described as 非礼. This usage is less common and relies on context.