A civil servant is a person who works in the state sector, but not necessarily in a government ministry. They could work for a state-owned company as well. In English we mostly think that a civil servant works in an office, and does administrative work. We sometimes also call them "paper pushers" because it seems it is more important for them to move forms and documents off their desk to avoid responsibility. A public servant is a member of the governing class at all levels. In the western nations we would say they are politically elected, or they are politicians. In China, a public servant would be a senior members of the Chinese Communist Party, or a member of the politburo.

You are welcome, Evie.

Thank you,Ben.I'll look them up in dictionaries once again.

Evie, civil servants are people that are employed by the government. That is all. They are 公务员。 This is how the Collins English Dictionary defines "public servant": (Government, Politics & Diplomacy) an elected or appointed holder of a public office. Try to use a good dictionary for simple questions like definitions of words. Remember also that China's system is very different from those in Western countries.

Andi, you are too cynical and is being unfair to many civil servants around the world who save lives, keep water clean and keep children safe and educated.