Usage of 一贯
The word 一贯 (yī guàn) means "consistent" or "always the same". It is often used to describe behavior, attitudes, or qualities that do not change over time. When you say someone or something is 一贯, you imply a steady, reliable pattern without sudden changes.
Common contexts
It is frequently used in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as describing a person's principles, a company's quality standards, or someone's habitual behavior. For example, 一贯坚持 (consistently adhere to) or 一贯注重 (consistently focus on) are common collocations.
Collocations and patterns
- 一贯坚持 + [principle/attitude]: to consistently stick to something
- 一贯注重 + [aspect]: to consistently emphasize or focus on something
- 一贯的 + [态度/表现]: consistent attitude or performance
Nuance and register
Using 一贯 conveys a positive evaluation of stability and reliability. It is more formal than simply saying 一直 (always) and often implies a commendable steadiness. Avoid confusing 一贯 with 一直, which is more neutral and often refers to continuous action rather than consistent character.
Common confusion
Do not confuse 一贯 with 一直. 一贯 emphasizes consistency in character or quality, while 一直 focuses on continuous action or state. For example, 一贯的态度 (consistent attitude) vs. 一直在工作 (working continuously).