‘原著’ (yuán zhù) literally combines ‘原’ (yuán), meaning ‘original’ or ‘primary’, and ‘著’ (zhù), meaning ‘written work’ or ‘composition’. Together, it refers specifically to the original source text—most commonly a novel, novella, or other literary work—upon which adaptations (such as films, TV dramas, or stage plays) are based. It emphasizes authenticity and authorial intent, distinguishing the creator’s first version from later reinterpretations.

This term is frequently used in cultural discussions, publishing, and media criticism. For example, fans might compare how faithfully a movie adapts the 原著, or publishers may highlight ‘based on the original work’ on book covers. While it most often refers to fiction, it can also apply to nonfiction books, academic treatises, or even classical texts—but never to oral traditions, translations, or derivative works like sequels or fan fiction.