zai3 ding3制訂制订
Jyutpingzai3 ding3
Yalejai ding
Definition
To formulate, draw up, or establish a set of rules, laws, or plans.
writtenwork
How it's used
Formal contexts are where this word shines, as it implies a structured or official process of creation. It is frequently paired with abstract concepts like policies, laws, or long term strategies. Unlike simpler verbs for making things, it carries a sense of authority and careful deliberation.
Examples
The company just formulated new rules.
How do you guys plan to work out this plan?
Related words
Common phrases
to formulate laws
to formulate policies
to draw up a plan
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 制定, which is a common variant in written Chinese. While they are often interchangeable in meaning, 制訂 emphasizes the process of drawing up or drafting, whereas 制定 focuses more on the final act of establishing or enacting.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Directional complementsThe small words added after a verb to show direction of movement, like up, down, out, in, and back. Common in everyday Cantonese.
- DemonstrativesThis and that with 呢 and 嗰, the personal pronouns, and how 哋 turns I, you, and he into we, you all, and they.
- Resultative complementsSticking a result word onto a verb to show how it turned out, like eat until full or look and find. A productive everyday pattern.
