知己 zhījǐ to know oneself
to know oneself; to be intimate or close; intimate friend
How to remember 知己: 知 know + 己 self = to know oneself.
Characters
How it is used
- A bosom friend who truly understands you - 人生难得一知己 (rénshēng nándé yì zhījǐ) a true kindred spirit is rare in life.
- Deeper than 朋友; implies mutual, soul-level understanding. Note 知己知彼 (know yourself and your opponent) uses 知己 in its literal 'know oneself' sense.