What Is “定金” (Dìngjīn)? Understanding Deposit Payments in Chinese Contracts #2238314 (License: Personal Use)

“定金” (dìngjīn) translates to “deposit” or “earnest money” and carries legal weight in Chinese civil law-unlike “订金” (dìngjīn, non-binding reservation fee). It is frequently used in property purchases, service agreements, and e-commerce to secure commitments, with forfeiture or double-return rules under Article 587 of the Civil Code. The calligraphic style shown reflects traditional brushwork often used in official documents or signage to convey formality and authority.

This image is typically used on legal, financial, or cross-border business websites explaining Chinese contract terms; it supports user intent to understand deposit obligations when entering agreements with Chinese entities or platforms.