the ways of heaven; heavenly virtue
Refers to the natural order or moral principles of heaven, often implying health and strength as a virtue. Archaic and philosophical; not used in everyday speech.
In classical texts, 乾道 means the way of heaven and can represent the virtue of human health and strength.
the ways of men; the path men should follow
Refers to the proper moral path or conduct for humans, often contrasted with the ways of heaven. Archaic and philosophical; not used in modern conversation.
In classical works, 乾道 can refer not only to the way of heaven but also to the path that people should follow.