Abstract: The thought of nominal rectification stemming from Confucius is based on the in-depth analysis of the relationship between Ming and Shi (Ming is similar to Signifier,Shi to Signified),and has played an important role in the historical development of Chinese traditional exegetics,showing the law of dialectical synthesis of thesis and antithesis. In the pre-Qin period,the idea of nominal rectification was implemented in the specific Chinese interpretation,and gradually developed into Shengxun (pronunciation exegetics)and Xingxun (form exegetics),two major forms in exploring the motivation of language and character,which is considered as the thesis. In the Han Dynasty,the rectification of names focused on Confucian classics and philology,and its distinct tendency to Confucian classics led to the arbitrariness of explanation and the confusion between the Ming and Shi,which is considered as self-alienation of nominal rectification and the antithesis. In the late Han Dynasty,the ancient scholars represented by XU Shen corrected such a tendency and established the practical study tradition of Chinese exegetics,realizing the return of compatibility between Ming and Shi,which is synthesis. Xiaoxue (Chinese traditional philology)in the Qin and Han dynasties is the beginning and background of Chinese exegetics history,which followed the thought of nominal rectification and laid down the national characteristics of Chinese traditional exegetics.

Key words: the rectification of names, Chinese exegetic, tendency to classic study, practical study tradition, national characteristics