‘循例’ is an adverb meaning ‘in accordance with precedent’ or ‘as per established practice.’ It combines the character 循 (xún), meaning ‘to follow’ or ‘to adhere to,’ and 例 (lì), meaning ‘precedent,’ ‘example,’ or ‘established rule.’ Together, they convey the idea of acting consistently with prior custom or formal procedure—often in administrative, bureaucratic, or organizational contexts.

This term carries a slightly formal or literary tone and is frequently used in official documents, meeting minutes, or institutional announcements. It implies routine, predictability, and conformity rather than innovation or exception. While not inherently negative, it can sometimes suggest rigidity or lack of flexibility when overused. Learners should note that 循例 typically modifies verbs (e.g., 处理、办理、通过) and often appears at the beginning or middle of a clause, never as a standalone noun or verb.