Kangxi Dictionary

Author: (Qing) Zhang Yushu et al. compiled
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2001-03-10
Features: This dictionary was compiled by numerous scholars summoned by the Qing government, and it was named as such because it was completed in the 55th year of the Kangxi reign. The entire dictionary lists 47,035 characters, each with different pronunciations and meanings, and all common characters and meanings are supported by textual evidence. After its publication, it became extremely popular and remains a valuable linguistic reference tool to this day. Although the Kangxi Dictionary has its shortcomings, it still serves a certain purpose for readers who wish to read ancient Chinese works today. The book has a woodblock printing edition from the Qing dynasty. During the late Qing period, several photolithographic editions appeared in Shanghai. Our organization previously used the photolithographic edition from Tongwen Press as a base to create zinc plates. Now, we are reprinting from the existing plates and have added Wang Yinzi's dictionary commentary at the end for reference.