Why do Chinese names often contain double words like ‘Yao Yao’, ‘Wei Wei’ or ‘Sun Sun’?
Simple reason? They sound cute. Well, there is no explicit rule to repeat the same character in the name. However, it’s not uncommon to see …
When is it appropriate to use the term “xiao jie” in Mandarin?
Xiao jie, I suppose you mean 小姐， was a honorific title like “miss” or “my lady” during the Republic of China in the first half …
Does the Chinese word for grape (葡萄) come from the name of the country Portugal?
[Portugal & grapes: 葡萄牙 pútáoyá / pwutaurya & 葡萄 pútao / pwu.taur, GR Tonal Spelling (Gwoyeu Romatzyh)] 蒲陶, the Chinese word for grape, is attested over 2100 years …
What is Huaxia?
Hua（华） Xia （夏） This is how the Chinese people refer to themselves. Hua 华 = beautiful clothing Xia 夏 = a sense of propriety. I …
Is learning basic Chinese hard?
Many Chinese people take pride in the fact that their language is supposed to be impossibly difficult for foreigners to master (many westerners also assume …
What does 「民」 mean?
I thought I’d post a response to Kang-Lin Cheng’s post as to where 「民」 came from and how it got its meaning today. 「民」 (slave > the common people) …
What is the meaning of 绿茶婊 in Mandarin Chinese?
“绿茶” literally means green tea, 婊= “bitch” or “prostitute.” Online, people usually say just “green tea” as a euphemism. It refers to a type of woman who looks pure and …
Why is “Becoming Chinese” trending overseas?
Chinese American TikToker Sherry started the “becoming Chinese” vogue by sharing her cultural insights online. She stated with mock solemnity: “Tomorrow, you’re turning Chinese. I …
What is the most distinguishing characteristic of Chinese culture?
Never give up! Never give in! Everyone is equal. Is there anyone born as a king, duke, general or minister? One who fears not being …
Why is “Becoming Chinese” trending overseas?
For a moment I thought the question was “Why is becoming overseas Chinese trendy”. Oh well, maybe some day. Guess the soft power is paying …