‘Chǒng xìn’ is a formal, literary noun meaning ‘favor and trust,’ especially when conferred by someone in authority—such as an emperor, senior official, or employer—upon a subordinate, advisor, or confidant. The character 宠 (chǒng) means ‘to dote on, to favor,’ often implying indulgence or special treatment; 信 (xìn) means ‘trust, confidence.’ Together, they convey not just liking or approval, but a deep, institutionalized relationship of reliance and preferential status.

This term appears frequently in historical texts, classical novels (e.g., Romance of the Three Kingdoms), and formal political discourse. It carries connotations of privilege and vulnerability: those who enjoy chǒng xìn may wield influence, but their position depends entirely on the superior’s continued goodwill—and can vanish overnight. It is rarely used in modern casual speech, and never for pets or romantic partners; it is strictly hierarchical and power-adjacent.