品格 (pǐn gé) refers to a person’s moral character or ethical qualities — the inner values, integrity, honesty, and sense of responsibility that define how they behave, especially when no one is watching. The first character 品 means 'item' or 'category', but in compounds like this it carries the sense of 'type' or 'quality'; 格 means 'standard', 'pattern', or 'principle'. Together, 品格 literally suggests 'the standard or pattern of one’s quality' — i.e., the consistent moral standard by which a person lives.

This word is formal and positive, often used in education, ethics discussions, leadership training, or evaluations of personal growth. It emphasizes enduring traits rather than temporary moods or behaviors, and is commonly paired with words like 培养 (to cultivate), 影响 (to influence), or 高尚 (noble). While similar to 性格 (personality), 品格 specifically highlights morality and virtue, not temperament or disposition.