Meaning and Usage
"公仆" literally means "public servant" and refers to individuals who serve the public interest, especially government officials or civil servants. It carries a strong connotation of responsibility and dedication to the welfare of the people.
Common Contexts
This term is often used in political or social discussions to highlight the role of officials as servants of the people rather than rulers. It underscores humility and duty.
Collocations and Patterns
- 公仆精神 (gōngpú jīngshén): spirit of public service, emphasizing dedication
- 人民的公仆 (rénmín de gōngpú): servant of the people, a common phrase to describe officials
Usage Notes
When using 公仆, the speaker implies that the person is committed to serving the public good, often contrasting with self-serving behavior. It is a formal and respectful term, not used casually.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse 公仆 with 公务员 (gōngwùyuán), which simply means "civil servant" without the explicit emphasis on serving the public interest.