You Collection, Lower Volume Radical: Bitter (xīn) Kangxi Strokes: 19 Page 1007, Entry 05 Pronounced ci (rising tone). Speech or literary composition. Book of Changes (Yijing): Cultivate one's speech to establish sincerity. Book of Documents (Shangshu): Literary composition should prize truthfulness and brevity. Also, according to the Explaining Graphs and Analyzing Characters (Shuowen Jiezi), testimony in a lawsuit. Rites of Zhou (Zhouli): Use five types of sounds to judge legal cases; the first is listening to the testimony. Book of Documents (Shangshu): Clearly examine one-sided testimony, ensuring no injustice in weighing the statements of both parties. Sub-commentary (Shu): Single testimony refers to the statement of one party; dual testimony refers to the arguments presented by both sides. Also synonymous with the character ci (to decline). Standard Rhymes (Zhengyun): To decline or refuse to accept. Book of Documents (Shangshu): Bowing the head, firmly declining. Doctrine of the Mean (Zhongyong): Official titles and salaries may be declined. Also, to express thanks or apology. History of the Former Han (Qianshanshu): A warm expression and humble words. Also, to take leave or depart. Songs of Chu (Chuci): Arriving without a word, departing without a farewell.