In Chinese, the word "死 (sǐ)" refers to death and is generally a taboo word with negative connotations. That being said, you can often hear the Chinese saying this word for exaggeration purposes and – just like in English – it shouldn't be taken literally. For example, when it is very hot outside, you might hear people say: "热死了 (rè sǐ le)/热死我了 (rè sǐ wǒ le) the heat is killing me." This doesn't mean that the speaker is actually close to death, but they are using "死 (sǐ)" to say that it is extremely hot. This device can be used to intensify positive situations as well, such as "高兴死了 (gāoxìng sǐ le) I am so happy/thrilled to death."
……
Learn more at:
http://resources.echineselearning.com/general/general-chinese-1528.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082205
2012年8月21日星期二
Read Chinese story about 七夕节 (Qīxījié) Double Seven Festival (Chinese Valentine’s Day) (Beginner)
The Double Seven Festival or Chinese Valentine’s Day is on July 7 on lunar calendar every year. Below is a story behind the festival:
Zhi Nü was said to be the youngest daughter of the queen of heaven, while Niu Lang was a poor orphan cowherd who lived a poor life with an old magical cow. One day, when the seven fairies slipped out to bathe, Niu Lang met Zhi Nü by the river and asked her to stay with him. Zhi Nü agreed and they lived happily together. However, the queen of heaven was very angry. So she had Zhi Nü brought back to heaven. Seeing his beloved wife flying in the sky, Niu Lang followed Zhi Nü into heaven with the help of the magic cowhide……
Read the full article now:
http://resources.echineselearning.com/general/general-chinese-1356.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082204
Zhi Nü was said to be the youngest daughter of the queen of heaven, while Niu Lang was a poor orphan cowherd who lived a poor life with an old magical cow. One day, when the seven fairies slipped out to bathe, Niu Lang met Zhi Nü by the river and asked her to stay with him. Zhi Nü agreed and they lived happily together. However, the queen of heaven was very angry. So she had Zhi Nü brought back to heaven. Seeing his beloved wife flying in the sky, Niu Lang followed Zhi Nü into heaven with the help of the magic cowhide……
Read the full article now:
http://resources.echineselearning.com/general/general-chinese-1356.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082204
Quotations from 姚明(yáo míng) Yao Ming
You may never doubt the excellence of Yao Ming on the basketball court. In fact, his wisdom and humor off the court are also quite impressing.
His Wisdom:
When he was asked by a Chinese reporter: "are you worried about one day you will be overtaken by a rookie?"
He answered:
这就是比赛，像生活一样，没什么如果可以预料。
zhè jiù shì b? sài, xiàng shēng huó yí yàng, méi shén me rú gu? ké y? yù liào.
Games are the same as life and are not predictable.
His Humor:
When he was asked by a reporter: "why do you get more attentions than golf star Tiger Woods does?" He answered: ……
Learn more at:
http://www.echineselearning.com/newsletter/issue-04/yao-ming.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082203
His Wisdom:
When he was asked by a Chinese reporter: "are you worried about one day you will be overtaken by a rookie?"
He answered:
这就是比赛，像生活一样，没什么如果可以预料。
zhè jiù shì b? sài, xiàng shēng huó yí yàng, méi shén me rú gu? ké y? yù liào.
Games are the same as life and are not predictable.
His Humor:
When he was asked by a reporter: "why do you get more attentions than golf star Tiger Woods does?" He answered: ……
Learn more at:
http://www.echineselearning.com/newsletter/issue-04/yao-ming.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082203
The popular word: 八卦(bāguà) gossip
Origin of the Phrase:
Yi Jing, also named The Book of Changes, says: "Yin and Yang form Tai Chi; Tai Chi forms two-stage; two-stage forms four-quadrant and four-quadrant forms Eight Diagrams." A founder of a gossip magazine in Hong Kong thinks that various gossip in the world are formed from what happened in the world, just like Yin and Yang breed Eight Diagrams. So the gossip magazine is named 八卦(bāguà).
Meaning of the Phrase:
In 八卦(bāguà), 八(bā) means the number eight and 卦(guà) refers to divinatory trigram. But now, 八卦(bāguà) is widely used to refer to a kind of attitude or behavior where people are keen on asking, guessing, or gossiping upon others' private affairs. So the origin meaning of 八卦(bāguà) is used less often.
Usage of the Phrase:
八卦(bāguà) can be used as noun, adjective and verb. For example:
(1) n. gossip:
e.g. 八卦新闻(bāguà xīnwén) gossip news
八卦杂志(bāguà zázhì) gossip magazine
八卦媒体(bāguà méit?) gossip media
……
Learn more at:
http://www.echineselearning.com/newsletter/issue-15/polular-words.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082202
Yi Jing, also named The Book of Changes, says: "Yin and Yang form Tai Chi; Tai Chi forms two-stage; two-stage forms four-quadrant and four-quadrant forms Eight Diagrams." A founder of a gossip magazine in Hong Kong thinks that various gossip in the world are formed from what happened in the world, just like Yin and Yang breed Eight Diagrams. So the gossip magazine is named 八卦(bāguà).
Meaning of the Phrase:
In 八卦(bāguà), 八(bā) means the number eight and 卦(guà) refers to divinatory trigram. But now, 八卦(bāguà) is widely used to refer to a kind of attitude or behavior where people are keen on asking, guessing, or gossiping upon others' private affairs. So the origin meaning of 八卦(bāguà) is used less often.
Usage of the Phrase:
八卦(bāguà) can be used as noun, adjective and verb. For example:
(1) n. gossip:
e.g. 八卦新闻(bāguà xīnwén) gossip news
八卦杂志(bāguà zázhì) gossip magazine
八卦媒体(bāguà méit?) gossip media
……
Learn more at:
http://www.echineselearning.com/newsletter/issue-15/polular-words.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082202
Chinese Tset: What does “哥们儿 (gēmenr)” mean here?
Beginner Level 初级 (chūjí)
Conversation:
Gēmenr, xiàwǔ dǎ lánqiú ba.
Mike: 哥们儿，下午 打 篮球 吧。
Méi wèntí.
Tom: 没 问题。
What does “哥们儿 (gēmenr)” mean here?
A. older brother
B. younger brother
C. buddy
See Answer at:
http://resources.echineselearning.com/chinesetest/chinesetest-chinese-465.html?ecl=ptEEEEEpg082201
Conversation:
Gēmenr, xiàwǔ dǎ lánqiú ba.
Mike: 哥们儿，下午 打 篮球 吧。
Méi wèntí.
Tom: 没 问题。
What does “哥们儿 (gēmenr)” mean here?
A. older brother
B. younger brother
C. buddy
See Answer at:
http://resources.echineselearning.com/chinesetest/chinesetest-chinese-465.html?ecl=ptEEEEEpg082201
夜猫子 (yèmāozǐ) Owl/ A Person Who Goes to Bed Late
“夜猫子 (yèmāozǐ)” is the phrase for “Owl/ A person who goes to bed late.”
The character “夜 (yè)” means night; “猫 (māo)” means cat and “子 (zi)” is used as a suffix here.
Example:
陈红喜欢在深夜工作，真是个夜猫子。
Chén Hóng xǐhuɑn zài shēnyè gōngzuò, zhēn shì gè yèmāozi.
Chen Hong likes to work late at night, just like an owl.
Learn more at
对面的女孩看过来 (duì miàn de nǚ hái kàn guò lái ) A girl standing opposite me looks over here
Imagine this: A beautiful and cool girl is standing opposite a young man. He puts on his new clothes, plays his guitar and sings his favorite songs to attract her attentions. Here is a song expressing a boy's loneliness and complex feelings in this situation. It is a very popular Karaoke song in China!
Click here to listen to the song.
http://www.echineselearning.com/newsletter/issue-05/a-girl-looks.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEfa082202
对面的女孩看过来 duì miàn de nǚ hái kàn guò lái
A girl standing opposite me looks over here
看过来，看过来 kàn guò lái, kàn guò lái
Look over here, Look over here
这里的表演很精彩 zhè lĭ de biáo yăn hěn jīng căi
The performances here are wonderful
请不要假装不理不睬 qĭng bú yào jiă zhuāng bù lĭ bù căi
Please don't pretend to be cold
对面的女孩看过来 duì miàn de nǚ hái kàn guò lái
A girl standing opposite me looks over here
看过来，看过来 kàn guò lái, kàn guò lái
Look over here, Look over here
不要被我的样子吓坏 bú yào bèi wŏ de yàng zi xià huài
Don't be scared by my appearance
其实我很可爱 qí shí wŏ hěn kě ài
Actually I am very cute
寂寞男孩的悲哀 jì mò nán hái de bēi āi
The single boys' loneliness
说出来，谁明白 shuō chū lái, shuí míng bai
Could never be cared even I share with people
求求你抛个媚眼过来 qiú qiú nĭ pāo gè mèi yăn guò lái
Please girl, pay attention to me
哄哄我逗我乐开怀 hŏng hŏng wŏ dòu wŏ lè kāi huái
and I'll be very happy
我左看右看，上看下看 wŏ zuŏ kàn yòu kàn, shàng kàn xià kàn
I keep looking around
原来每个女孩都不简单 yuán lái měi gè nǚ hái dōu bù jiăn dān
And find that every girl is not so simple
我想了又想，我猜了又猜 wŏ xiăng le yòu xiăng, wŏ cāi le yòu cāi
I keep guessing girls' minds
女孩们的心事还真奇怪 nǚ hái men de xīn shì hái zhēn qí guài
And find it is hard to get what these girls are thinking
寂寞男孩的苍蝇拍 jì mò nán hái de cāng ying pāi
The lonely boy's fly paddle
左拍拍，右拍拍 zuŏ pāi pāi, yòu pāi pāi
is beating from right to left
为什么还是没人来爱 wèi shén me hái shì méi rén lái ài
Why is there no girl fall in love with me
无人问津，真无奈 wú rén wèn jīn, zhēn wú nài
I am helpless with my loneliness
…
Listen to the
whole song at
合同 (hétong) Contract (Intermediate)
The character “合 (hé)” refers to combine and “同 (tóng)” means together or agree.
Example:
Hétong shì yìzhǒng héfǎ de xiédìng.
合同 是 一种 合法 的 协定。
A contract is a formal agreement.
Learn more at
鹤立鸡群 Like a crane standing among chickens
晋朝时，有一个人叫嵇绍。他长得仪表堂堂，而且才能出众，
Jìncháo shí, yŏu yí gè rén jiào Jī Shào. Tā zhăng dé yíbiăotángtáng, érqiĕ cáinéng chūzhòng,
担任晋惠帝的侍从官。一次，有人侵犯京城。嵇绍跟随惠帝前去
dānrèn jìnhuìdì de shìcóngguān. Yí cì, yŏu rén qīnfàn jīngchéng. Jī Shào gēnsuí huìdì qiánqù
征讨叛乱，不料打了败仗，随行的官员、将领以及侍卫死伤
zhēngtăo pànluàn, búliào dă le bàizhàng, suíxíng de guānyuán, jiànglĭng yĭjí shìwèi sĭshāng
无数，还有很多人逃跑了，只有嵇绍保护着惠帝，始终不离左右。
wúshù, hái yŏu hĕnduō rén táopăo le, zhíyŏu Jī Shào băohùzhe huìdì, shĭzhōng bù lí zuŏyòu,
看到嵇绍奋勇杀敌的情景人们都很有感触，说：“嵇绍就像一只
kàn dào Jī Shào fènyŏng shādí de qíngjĭng rénmen dōu hĕn yŏu gănchù, shuō:"Jī Shào jiù xàng yì zhī
鹤站立在鸡群中一样，仪表出众，气度不凡。”
hè zhànlì zài jīqún zhōng yí yàng, yíbiăo chūzhòng, qìdù bùfán."
English Translation
Ji Shao, an aide to Emperor Jin Hui during the Jin Dynasty, was handsome and talented. Once, when his country was being invaded, he accompanied Emperor Jin Hui in defending the country, but, unfortunately, they lost the war. Most of the soldiers died or deserted, but Ji Shao stayed with the emperor to protect him. Upon seeing this, the people were moved and said:"Ji Shao is like a crane standing among chickens, preeminent and superior." This idiom is currently used to describe prominent people with good looks and impressive abilities among a crowd.
Example
罗西特在那个地方显示不出自己的才能。他们不懂得赏识他和他的工作。其实他担任那一职务，才力绰绰有余，有如鹤立鸡群。
Luó xī tè zài nà gè dìfang xiănshì bù chū zìjĭ de cáinéng. Tāmen bù dŏng dé shăngshí tā hé tā de gōngzuò. Qíshí tā dānrèn nà yì zhíwù, cáilì chuòchuòyŏuyú, yŏu rú hèlìjīqún.
Luo Xi Te was unable to really shine at that place. They didn't know how to appreciate him, or the work he did. He was really just too good for the job. In fact, he was a crane standing among chickens.
More idiom story at http://resources.echineselearning.com/kids/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082201
Jìncháo shí, yŏu yí gè rén jiào Jī Shào. Tā zhăng dé yíbiăotángtáng, érqiĕ cáinéng chūzhòng,
担任晋惠帝的侍从官。一次，有人侵犯京城。嵇绍跟随惠帝前去
dānrèn jìnhuìdì de shìcóngguān. Yí cì, yŏu rén qīnfàn jīngchéng. Jī Shào gēnsuí huìdì qiánqù
征讨叛乱，不料打了败仗，随行的官员、将领以及侍卫死伤
zhēngtăo pànluàn, búliào dă le bàizhàng, suíxíng de guānyuán, jiànglĭng yĭjí shìwèi sĭshāng
无数，还有很多人逃跑了，只有嵇绍保护着惠帝，始终不离左右。
wúshù, hái yŏu hĕnduō rén táopăo le, zhíyŏu Jī Shào băohùzhe huìdì, shĭzhōng bù lí zuŏyòu,
看到嵇绍奋勇杀敌的情景人们都很有感触，说：“嵇绍就像一只
kàn dào Jī Shào fènyŏng shādí de qíngjĭng rénmen dōu hĕn yŏu gănchù, shuō:"Jī Shào jiù xàng yì zhī
鹤站立在鸡群中一样，仪表出众，气度不凡。”
hè zhànlì zài jīqún zhōng yí yàng, yíbiăo chūzhòng, qìdù bùfán."
English Translation
Ji Shao, an aide to Emperor Jin Hui during the Jin Dynasty, was handsome and talented. Once, when his country was being invaded, he accompanied Emperor Jin Hui in defending the country, but, unfortunately, they lost the war. Most of the soldiers died or deserted, but Ji Shao stayed with the emperor to protect him. Upon seeing this, the people were moved and said:"Ji Shao is like a crane standing among chickens, preeminent and superior." This idiom is currently used to describe prominent people with good looks and impressive abilities among a crowd.
Example
罗西特在那个地方显示不出自己的才能。他们不懂得赏识他和他的工作。其实他担任那一职务，才力绰绰有余，有如鹤立鸡群。
Luó xī tè zài nà gè dìfang xiănshì bù chū zìjĭ de cáinéng. Tāmen bù dŏng dé shăngshí tā hé tā de gōngzuò. Qíshí tā dānrèn nà yì zhíwù, cáilì chuòchuòyŏuyú, yŏu rú hèlìjīqún.
Luo Xi Te was unable to really shine at that place. They didn't know how to appreciate him, or the work he did. He was really just too good for the job. In fact, he was a crane standing among chickens.
More idiom story at http://resources.echineselearning.com/kids/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082201
Chinese Mini-test: Hype (Advanced)
Advanced Level 高级 (gāojí)
“Despite the hype about the coming of unlimited bandwidth, WAN service remains costly today.” Can you choose the right meaning of the word “hype” in Chinese language?
A. 炒作 (chǎozuò)
B. 宣传 (xuānchuán)
C. 出版 (chūbǎn)
D. 通告 (tōnggào)
“Despite the hype about the coming of unlimited bandwidth, WAN service remains costly today.” Can you choose the right meaning of the word “hype” in Chinese language?
A. 炒作 (chǎozuò)
B. 宣传 (xuānchuán)
C. 出版 (chūbǎn)
D. 通告 (tōnggào)
See answer and analysis at http://resources.echineselearning.com/minitestanswers/minitestanswers-chinese-1.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082204
Soccer Stars from Arsenal Speak Chinese.
Take a look at this surprising video to see the soccer stars of Arsenal attempting to speak Chinese.
http://resources.echineselearning.com/funstuff/funstuff-chinese-44.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082205
There are two important Chinese learning points in this online Chinese class.
Learning Point #1:
The famous soccer star Szczesny said:
Dàjiā hǎo, wǒ jiào Sīzésīní.
大 家好， 我 叫 斯泽斯尼。
Hello, everyone. My name is Szczesny.
The sentence structure “我叫… (Wǒ jiào…)” is used to introduce one’s name to others. We can also say “我的名字是… (Wǒ de míngzi shì…) My name is…” For example:
Wǒ jiào Jim.
我 叫 Jim.
My name is Jim.
Wǒ de míngzi shì Wáng Qiáng.
我 的 名 字 是 王 强。
My name is Wang Qiang.
Learning Point #2:
Gibbs said, “谢谢吃吃阿森纳。(Xièxiè chīchī Āsēnnà.) Thanks for eating Arsenal.”
“吃 (chī)” means “to eat.” Did Gibbs mean that he thinks Arsenal football is delicious?
Actually, Gibbs was trying to say “谢谢支持阿森纳。(Xièxiè zhīchí Āsēnnà.) Thanks for supporting Arsenal.” “支持 (zhīchí)” means “to support.”
The sounds represented in Chinese pinyin by “zh” and “ch” are often challenging for many people studying Mandarin Chinese.
“zh“ and ”ch” sounds are described as being formed by a rolled tongue.
“zh“ starts with the ‘j‘ in “jeep,” but then ends smoothly with the “r” sound.
“ch“ starts with the ‘ch‘ in “cheese,” but then ends smoothly with the “r” sound.
For example:
织 (zhī) to weave
Māma zài zhī máoyī.
妈 妈 在 织 毛 衣。
Mom is weaving a sweater.
吃 (chī) to eat
Xiǎo báitù zài chī húluóbo.
小 白 兔 在 吃 胡 萝卜。
http://resources.echineselearning.com/funstuff/funstuff-chinese-44.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082205
There are two important Chinese learning points in this online Chinese class.
Learning Point #1:
The famous soccer star Szczesny said:
Dàjiā hǎo, wǒ jiào Sīzésīní.
大 家好， 我 叫 斯泽斯尼。
Hello, everyone. My name is Szczesny.
The sentence structure “我叫… (Wǒ jiào…)” is used to introduce one’s name to others. We can also say “我的名字是… (Wǒ de míngzi shì…) My name is…” For example:
Wǒ jiào Jim.
我 叫 Jim.
My name is Jim.
Wǒ de míngzi shì Wáng Qiáng.
我 的 名 字 是 王 强。
My name is Wang Qiang.
Learning Point #2:
Gibbs said, “谢谢吃吃阿森纳。(Xièxiè chīchī Āsēnnà.) Thanks for eating Arsenal.”
“吃 (chī)” means “to eat.” Did Gibbs mean that he thinks Arsenal football is delicious?
Actually, Gibbs was trying to say “谢谢支持阿森纳。(Xièxiè zhīchí Āsēnnà.) Thanks for supporting Arsenal.” “支持 (zhīchí)” means “to support.”
The sounds represented in Chinese pinyin by “zh” and “ch” are often challenging for many people studying Mandarin Chinese.
“zh“ and ”ch” sounds are described as being formed by a rolled tongue.
“zh“ starts with the ‘j‘ in “jeep,” but then ends smoothly with the “r” sound.
“ch“ starts with the ‘ch‘ in “cheese,” but then ends smoothly with the “r” sound.
For example:
织 (zhī) to weave
Māma zài zhī máoyī.
妈 妈 在 织 毛 衣。
Mom is weaving a sweater.
吃 (chī) to eat
Xiǎo báitù zài chī húluóbo.
小 白 兔 在 吃 胡 萝卜。
Don’t forget Liu Xiang. (Beginner)
Key Learning Points (Preview):
支持 (zhīchí): v./n. to support/support
相信 (xiāngxìn): v. to believe
努力 (nǔlì): v./n. to try hard/effort
The London Olympics have now passed the midway point, and current scores put China in second place for total number of medals won. The eight hours time difference doesn’t affect the enthusiasm of Chinese audiences, who are captivated by the success of their athletes.
It has been an emotional ride for China so far, and no one will forget the moment on August 7, 2012, when Chinese hurdler Liu Xiang crashed out of the110m hurdles in London. At that moment, all Chinese people were shocked and saddened that Liu Xiang had suffered yet another Olympic tragedy. After a false start at the Beijing Olympics which left audiences baffled, Liu Xiang again withdrew from the Olympics in London, citing an injured Achilles tendon as the cause. Four years later, the Chinese can only cheer on their hero and show their "支持 (zhīchí) support." Disappointed, many Chinese spectators shed their tears, but they also "相信 (xiāngxìn) believed" that Liu Xiang "努力 (nǔlì) tried his best."
However, his sudden withdrawal has caused a bit of clamor, with some saying that Liu Xiang was forced by advertisement agents to compete despite his injury. And on the internet, accusations of all sorts are being made. Liu Xiang is left in the eye of this speculative storm. Speaking on the matter, the hurdler has said: 'My goal was to take part in the Olympic Games.' The athlete did not only take part, but reminded the world that the Olympics aren’t only about winning. After his fall, Liu Xiang hopped down the track in order to symbolically cross the finish line and, earning a rousing ovation from the crowd, kissed the last hurdle in his lane.
Liu Xiang has had an operation in London on his Achilles tendon. We wish him a speedy recovery!
Practice:
1. Choose the correct answer to fill in the blank.
Wǒ____ nǐ.
我 ____ 你。
I believe you.
A. 相信 (xiāngxìn) B. 努力 (nǔlì) C. 支持 (zhīchí)
2. When you want to support your friend, what should you say?
A. 我努力你。(Wǒ nǔlì nǐ.)
B. 我支持你。(Wǒ zhīchí nǐ.)
C. 我相信你。(Wǒ xiāngxìn nǐ.)
Answers to the practice questions at http://resources.echineselearning.com/general/general-chinese-1535.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082202
支持 (zhīchí): v./n. to support/support
相信 (xiāngxìn): v. to believe
努力 (nǔlì): v./n. to try hard/effort
The London Olympics have now passed the midway point, and current scores put China in second place for total number of medals won. The eight hours time difference doesn’t affect the enthusiasm of Chinese audiences, who are captivated by the success of their athletes.
It has been an emotional ride for China so far, and no one will forget the moment on August 7, 2012, when Chinese hurdler Liu Xiang crashed out of the110m hurdles in London. At that moment, all Chinese people were shocked and saddened that Liu Xiang had suffered yet another Olympic tragedy. After a false start at the Beijing Olympics which left audiences baffled, Liu Xiang again withdrew from the Olympics in London, citing an injured Achilles tendon as the cause. Four years later, the Chinese can only cheer on their hero and show their "支持 (zhīchí) support." Disappointed, many Chinese spectators shed their tears, but they also "相信 (xiāngxìn) believed" that Liu Xiang "努力 (nǔlì) tried his best."
However, his sudden withdrawal has caused a bit of clamor, with some saying that Liu Xiang was forced by advertisement agents to compete despite his injury. And on the internet, accusations of all sorts are being made. Liu Xiang is left in the eye of this speculative storm. Speaking on the matter, the hurdler has said: 'My goal was to take part in the Olympic Games.' The athlete did not only take part, but reminded the world that the Olympics aren’t only about winning. After his fall, Liu Xiang hopped down the track in order to symbolically cross the finish line and, earning a rousing ovation from the crowd, kissed the last hurdle in his lane.
Liu Xiang has had an operation in London on his Achilles tendon. We wish him a speedy recovery!
Practice:
1. Choose the correct answer to fill in the blank.
Wǒ____ nǐ.
我 ____ 你。
I believe you.
A. 相信 (xiāngxìn) B. 努力 (nǔlì) C. 支持 (zhīchí)
2. When you want to support your friend, what should you say?
A. 我努力你。(Wǒ nǔlì nǐ.)
B. 我支持你。(Wǒ zhīchí nǐ.)
C. 我相信你。(Wǒ xiāngxìn nǐ.)
Why does “Old” stand for wisdom and prestige in China?
Key Learning Point:
老 (lǎo): adj. old
Several years ago, when Bill Clinton came to China and visited Shanghai, he felt uncomfortable when he was called "Grandpa Clinton" by children in a community. But when one of the children called him "Clinton," he began to warm up.
But in China it is considered impolite for a child to have used Clinton's name directly. In Chinese, “老 (lǎo) Old” stands for wisdom and prestige, and it is thus a means of showing respect to the elderly. Usually, it is only appropriate to call a person by their name directly if they are around the same age as you. People show their respect to their family members who are older by calling them uncle, elder sister, aunt, etc. Also, for anyone who is not a family member but is a member of the older generation, these titles are also used. For elderly people, children should call "老爷爷 (lǎo yéye) grandpa" and "老奶奶 (lǎo nǎinai) grandma,"or "李大爷 (Lǐ dàye)" etc, to show respect. If the elderly person is very familiar to you and is around the same age as you, it is also appropriate to call "老+family name" such as "老张 (Lǎo Zhāng) Lao Zhang," "老王 (Lǎo Wáng) Lao Wang" etc. Words like "张老 (Zhāng Lǎo) Zhang Lao," "王老 (Wáng Lǎo) Wang Lao" are used to address someone with a noble character and high prestige. Now you can see that in Chinese, the word "老 (lǎo)" is usually used to address an older person with honor and respect.
This idea that the older a person is, the more they should be regarded as a person with wisdom and prestige, is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and history. This is why people in China like to refer to the elderly as: "姜还是老的辣 (Jiāng hái shì lǎo de là) meaning, "older gingers are hotter." So don't feel uncomfortable if someone calls you "uncle," "grandpa" or similar titles in China.
Learn more at http://resources.echineselearning.com/general/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082203
老 (lǎo): adj. old
Several years ago, when Bill Clinton came to China and visited Shanghai, he felt uncomfortable when he was called "Grandpa Clinton" by children in a community. But when one of the children called him "Clinton," he began to warm up.
But in China it is considered impolite for a child to have used Clinton's name directly. In Chinese, “老 (lǎo) Old” stands for wisdom and prestige, and it is thus a means of showing respect to the elderly. Usually, it is only appropriate to call a person by their name directly if they are around the same age as you. People show their respect to their family members who are older by calling them uncle, elder sister, aunt, etc. Also, for anyone who is not a family member but is a member of the older generation, these titles are also used. For elderly people, children should call "老爷爷 (lǎo yéye) grandpa" and "老奶奶 (lǎo nǎinai) grandma,"or "李大爷 (Lǐ dàye)" etc, to show respect. If the elderly person is very familiar to you and is around the same age as you, it is also appropriate to call "老+family name" such as "老张 (Lǎo Zhāng) Lao Zhang," "老王 (Lǎo Wáng) Lao Wang" etc. Words like "张老 (Zhāng Lǎo) Zhang Lao," "王老 (Wáng Lǎo) Wang Lao" are used to address someone with a noble character and high prestige. Now you can see that in Chinese, the word "老 (lǎo)" is usually used to address an older person with honor and respect.
This idea that the older a person is, the more they should be regarded as a person with wisdom and prestige, is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and history. This is why people in China like to refer to the elderly as: "姜还是老的辣 (Jiāng hái shì lǎo de là) meaning, "older gingers are hotter." So don't feel uncomfortable if someone calls you "uncle," "grandpa" or similar titles in China.
Learn more at http://resources.echineselearning.com/general/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082203
2012年8月20日星期一
Tracy Mcgrady Wants to Put Yao Ming out?! (Beginner)
Did you get it? When Yao Ming asked Tracy Mcgrady what the hosts on the TV
show were talking about, Tracy said he would put Yao out. What happened
between these two friends?
In fact, what Tracy said was “我不知道”. “Well, put u out” has a similar
sound as the Chinese phrase “我不知道,” which means “I don’t know,”
or “I have no idea.”
Here is what the dialogue between Yao and Tracy should be:
Yao: Tèléixī, nàxiē rén zài tǎolùn xiē shénme?
特雷西，那些 人 在 讨论 些 什么？
Tracy, what are these people talking about?
Tracy: Wǒ bùzhīdào.
我 不知道。
I have no idea.
“我 (wǒ)” means I or me. “不 (bù)” means no. “知 (zhī)” means to
know. “道 (dào)” can be both used as a noun and a verb. When it is a noun,
it means the path or the road. But when it is used as a verb, it means to say, to
speak or to talk.
Example:
A: Nàbian chū shénme shì le? Zěnme yǒu nàme duō rén?
那边 出 什么 事 了？怎么 有 那么 多 人？
What’s happening over there? Why are there so many people?
B: Wǒ bùzhīdào.
我 不知道。
I have no idea.
More fun stuff at http://resources.echineselearning.com/funstuff/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082105
show were talking about, Tracy said he would put Yao out. What happened
between these two friends?
In fact, what Tracy said was “我不知道”. “Well, put u out” has a similar
sound as the Chinese phrase “我不知道,” which means “I don’t know,”
or “I have no idea.”
Here is what the dialogue between Yao and Tracy should be:
Yao: Tèléixī, nàxiē rén zài tǎolùn xiē shénme?
特雷西，那些 人 在 讨论 些 什么？
Tracy, what are these people talking about?
Tracy: Wǒ bùzhīdào.
我 不知道。
I have no idea.
“我 (wǒ)” means I or me. “不 (bù)” means no. “知 (zhī)” means to
know. “道 (dào)” can be both used as a noun and a verb. When it is a noun,
it means the path or the road. But when it is used as a verb, it means to say, to
speak or to talk.
Example:
A: Nàbian chū shénme shì le? Zěnme yǒu nàme duō rén?
那边 出 什么 事 了？怎么 有 那么 多 人？
What’s happening over there? Why are there so many people?
B: Wǒ bùzhīdào.
我 不知道。
I have no idea.
More fun stuff at http://resources.echineselearning.com/funstuff/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082105
Taobao – A Brand Becomes a Verb
淘 (táo) To Buy
In this dialogue, Anne is talking with her colleague, Ella, while having lunch at the office.
Xiǎng mǎi tiáo qúnzi, kě méi shíjiān guàngjiē.
Anne: 想 买 条 裙子，可 没 时间 逛街。
I want to buy a skirt, but I have no time to go shopping.
Shàng Táobǎo a.
Ella: 上 淘宝 啊。
Just use Taobao.
"淘宝 (Táobǎo) Taobao," is currently the leading online retailer in Asia, on par with Amazon and Ebay in the West. As a result, "淘宝 (Táobǎo)" has become an integral part of most people’s lives throughout Asia who place a high priority on both a convenient method to shop and an abundance of discounted items. "淘宝 (Táobǎo)" has become more than a brand and is now the most frequent verb used to mean "to search and buy things online," similar to "to Google it," which has become a popular saying meaning “look it up on the internet."
"淘 (táo)" alone has even become a common word in colloquial speech. You’ll often hear people saying "淘衣服 (táo yīfu)" or "淘东西 (táo dōngxi)," which literally mean "to wash clothes," or "to wash something" respectively. In reality, these uses of "淘 (táo)" nowadays mean "to search for something to buy amongst a variety of other items," reflecting its online market origin of popularity.
Gradually over time, people began using "淘 (táo)" as a verb to mean "买 (mǎi)." For example, you might hear someone in Beijing advise "Let's '淘 (táo)' clothes near the zoo," since the biggest marketplace in the north of China is located very close to Beijing’s zoo. Alternately you might hear people in Xi’an suggest going to Kangfulu (Xi’an’s own version of a huge marketplace) to "淘 (táo)" something. When one can find discounts or scenarios to barter, or discounts offered in a shopping center, people will often say "淘 (táo)." Only if you "淘 (táo)" can you buy something that's of high quality and affordable, or only by sifting through the rubbish will you find a gem.
More knowledge, please click here http://resources.echineselearning.com/dailybrief/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082104
In this dialogue, Anne is talking with her colleague, Ella, while having lunch at the office.
Xiǎng mǎi tiáo qúnzi, kě méi shíjiān guàngjiē.
Anne: 想 买 条 裙子，可 没 时间 逛街。
I want to buy a skirt, but I have no time to go shopping.
Shàng Táobǎo a.
Ella: 上 淘宝 啊。
Just use Taobao.
"淘宝 (Táobǎo) Taobao," is currently the leading online retailer in Asia, on par with Amazon and Ebay in the West. As a result, "淘宝 (Táobǎo)" has become an integral part of most people’s lives throughout Asia who place a high priority on both a convenient method to shop and an abundance of discounted items. "淘宝 (Táobǎo)" has become more than a brand and is now the most frequent verb used to mean "to search and buy things online," similar to "to Google it," which has become a popular saying meaning “look it up on the internet."
"淘 (táo)" alone has even become a common word in colloquial speech. You’ll often hear people saying "淘衣服 (táo yīfu)" or "淘东西 (táo dōngxi)," which literally mean "to wash clothes," or "to wash something" respectively. In reality, these uses of "淘 (táo)" nowadays mean "to search for something to buy amongst a variety of other items," reflecting its online market origin of popularity.
Gradually over time, people began using "淘 (táo)" as a verb to mean "买 (mǎi)." For example, you might hear someone in Beijing advise "Let's '淘 (táo)' clothes near the zoo," since the biggest marketplace in the north of China is located very close to Beijing’s zoo. Alternately you might hear people in Xi’an suggest going to Kangfulu (Xi’an’s own version of a huge marketplace) to "淘 (táo)" something. When one can find discounts or scenarios to barter, or discounts offered in a shopping center, people will often say "淘 (táo)." Only if you "淘 (táo)" can you buy something that's of high quality and affordable, or only by sifting through the rubbish will you find a gem.
More knowledge, please click here http://resources.echineselearning.com/dailybrief/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082104
Chinese Mini-test: To Fall in Love at First Sight (Advanced)
Advanced Level 高级 (gāojí)
Qīnàide, zhīdào wǒ shì shénme shíhou ài shàng nǐ de ma?
A: 亲爱的，知道 我 是 什么 时候 爱 上 你 的 吗？
Darling, do you know when I started loving you?
Bù zhīdào. Shénme shíhou ne? Zhǐ jìdé wǒmen shì zài nà nián de hànyǔbān rènshi de.
B: 不 知道。 什么 时候 呢？ 只 记得 我们 是 在 那 年 的 汉语班 认识 的。
I don’t know. When? I just remember that we met in the Chinese language class that
year.
Wǒ duì nǐ !
A: 我 对 你 ！
Well, I fell in love with you at first sight.
Do you know the Chinese characters for “to fall in love at first sight?”
A. 情不自禁 (qíngbúzìjìn)
B. 合情合理 (héqínghélǐ)
C. 心甘情愿 (xīn’gānqíngyuàn)
D. 一见钟情 (yíjiànzhōngqíng)
Qīnàide, zhīdào wǒ shì shénme shíhou ài shàng nǐ de ma?
A: 亲爱的，知道 我 是 什么 时候 爱 上 你 的 吗？
Darling, do you know when I started loving you?
Bù zhīdào. Shénme shíhou ne? Zhǐ jìdé wǒmen shì zài nà nián de hànyǔbān rènshi de.
B: 不 知道。 什么 时候 呢？ 只 记得 我们 是 在 那 年 的 汉语班 认识 的。
I don’t know. When? I just remember that we met in the Chinese language class that
year.
Wǒ duì nǐ !
A: 我 对 你 ！
Well, I fell in love with you at first sight.
Do you know the Chinese characters for “to fall in love at first sight?”
A. 情不自禁 (qíngbúzìjìn)
B. 合情合理 (héqínghélǐ)
C. 心甘情愿 (xīn’gānqíngyuàn)
D. 一见钟情 (yíjiànzhōngqíng)
See answer and analysis at http://resources.echineselearning.com/minitestanswers/minitestanswers-chinese-472.html?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082103
滥竽充数 Fill a Post without Real Qualifications (Beginner)
Key Learning Point (Preview):
数 (shǔ/shù): v/n count/number
In the Warring States Period of China, a king named Qixuan liked listening to the "合奏 (hézòu) instrumental ensemble" of Yu (an instrument in ancient China). The more bandsmen played it, the happier he would be. Mr. Nanguo was a man who didn't like to work hard but liked to brag. When he heard the king Qixuan wanted to organize a bigger band, he told the king Qixuan that he was an expert in playing the Yu. So the king Qixuan happily invited him to join the band. When playing Yu, he just sat together with other bandsmen and acted as he spared no effort. But in fact, he couldn't play it at all. He made his living by acting like this for many years until the king Qixuan died.
After the king Qixuan died, his son Qimin took over. He didn't like listening to the instrumental ensemble of Yu at all. He liked listening to the "独奏 (dúzòu) solo" of Yu. So he only asked one bandsman to play the Yu for him each time. In this case, Mr. Nanguo had no way but to run away.
This Chinese idiom tells us that we should tell things as they are and be honest. In modern Chinese, this Chinese idiom is used to describe people who fill in a post without real qualifications. You can see how it is used from the following example:
Wǒ bú tài huì chànggē, zài héchàngduì lǐ zhǐ shì lànyúchōngshù ér yǐ.
我 不 太 会 唱歌， 在 合唱队 里 只 是 滥竽充数 而 已。
I am not good at singing. I just fill a post without real qualifications in the chorus team.
Know more idiom story at http://resources.echineselearning.com/teens/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082102
数 (shǔ/shù): v/n count/number
In the Warring States Period of China, a king named Qixuan liked listening to the "合奏 (hézòu) instrumental ensemble" of Yu (an instrument in ancient China). The more bandsmen played it, the happier he would be. Mr. Nanguo was a man who didn't like to work hard but liked to brag. When he heard the king Qixuan wanted to organize a bigger band, he told the king Qixuan that he was an expert in playing the Yu. So the king Qixuan happily invited him to join the band. When playing Yu, he just sat together with other bandsmen and acted as he spared no effort. But in fact, he couldn't play it at all. He made his living by acting like this for many years until the king Qixuan died.
After the king Qixuan died, his son Qimin took over. He didn't like listening to the instrumental ensemble of Yu at all. He liked listening to the "独奏 (dúzòu) solo" of Yu. So he only asked one bandsman to play the Yu for him each time. In this case, Mr. Nanguo had no way but to run away.
This Chinese idiom tells us that we should tell things as they are and be honest. In modern Chinese, this Chinese idiom is used to describe people who fill in a post without real qualifications. You can see how it is used from the following example:
Wǒ bú tài huì chànggē, zài héchàngduì lǐ zhǐ shì lànyúchōngshù ér yǐ.
我 不 太 会 唱歌， 在 合唱队 里 只 是 滥竽充数 而 已。
I am not good at singing. I just fill a post without real qualifications in the chorus team.
Know more idiom story at http://resources.echineselearning.com/teens/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082102
物质 wùzhì Materialistic
Origin and Meaning
The phrase 物质(wùzhì) materialistic comes from a poem in Jin Dynasty, and it refers to substance and materials. But with the rapid development of material life, many people are paying more attention to materialistic things while ignoring the spiritual life. So now the phrase, as an adjective, is used to describe someone who is more concerned with material life, such as money, clothes and other objects. 物(wù) refers to matters or objects and 质(zhì) refers to quality.
Usage of the Phrase
e.g. 1.你也太物质了吧。 Nĭ yĕ tài wùzhì le ba.
You are so materialistic.
2.不要太物质了，精神生活也是很必要的。 Bú yào tài wùzhì le, jīngshen shēnghuó yĕ shì hĕn bìyào de.
You shouldn't be so materialistic, for spiritual life is necessary too.
Learn more popular Chinese at http://resources.echineselearning.com/dailybrief/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082101
The phrase 物质(wùzhì) materialistic comes from a poem in Jin Dynasty, and it refers to substance and materials. But with the rapid development of material life, many people are paying more attention to materialistic things while ignoring the spiritual life. So now the phrase, as an adjective, is used to describe someone who is more concerned with material life, such as money, clothes and other objects. 物(wù) refers to matters or objects and 质(zhì) refers to quality.
Usage of the Phrase
e.g. 1.你也太物质了吧。 Nĭ yĕ tài wùzhì le ba.
You are so materialistic.
2.不要太物质了，精神生活也是很必要的。 Bú yào tài wùzhì le, jīngshen shēnghuó yĕ shì hĕn bìyào de.
You shouldn't be so materialistic, for spiritual life is necessary too.
Learn more popular Chinese at http://resources.echineselearning.com/dailybrief/?ecl=ptEEEEEEpg082101
2012年8月19日星期日
Chinese Mini-Test:面子
There is a Chinese saying “死要面子活受罪 (Sĭ yào miànzi huó shòuzuì)” to describe someone who keeps on face-saving at the cost of enduring hardships.
Do you know what “面子 (miànzi)” means in English?
A. Face
B. Countenance
C. Flour
D. Self-esteem
Do you know what “面子 (miànzi)” means in English?
A. Face
B. Countenance
C. Flour
D. Self-esteem
Check your answer at
水调歌头•明月几时有(shuĭ diào gē tóu • míngyuè jĭshí yǒu) Tune: "Prelude to Water Melody"
This poem is the most famous Mid-Autumn Festival poem. The author wrote it for his brother, whom he missed dearly after not having seen him for seven years. There are two sentences in the poem that are often quoted by people now. 人有悲欢离合, 月有阴晴圆缺, 此事古难全. (Rén yǒu bēihuānlíhé, yuè yǒu yīnqíngyuánquē, cĭshì gŭ nán quán.) has a philosophical connotation. It tells people that not everything is perfect, and we should learn to endure ordeals. 但愿人长久, 千里共婵娟. (Dànyuàn rén chángjiŭ, qiānlĭ gòng chánjuān.) is a famous sentence of blessing during a time of reunion. It expresses blessings of health and relationships to others. It is one of the many poems of the Song Dynasty that has also been made into beautiful songs.
Click here to listen to the tune.
明月几时有，把酒问青天。
Míngyuè jĭshí yǒu, bǎjiŭ wèn qīngtiān.
How long until the full moon appears? Wine cup in hand, I ask the sky.
不知天上宫阙，今夕是何年？
Bù zhī tiānshàng gōngquè, jīnxī shì hénián?
I do not know what time of year. It could be tonight in the palace on high.
我欲乘风归去，惟恐琼楼玉宇，高处不胜寒。
Wǒ yù chéngfēng guīqù, wéikǒng qiónglóuyùyŭ, gāochù bú shèng hán.
Riding the wind, there I would fly, yet I'm afraid the crystalline palace would be too high and cold for me.
起舞弄清影，何似在人间！
Qĭwŭ nòng qīngyĭng, hé sì zài rénjiān!
I rise and dance, with my shadow I play. It is like on the earth!
转朱阁，低绮户，照无眠。
Zhuǎn zhūgé, dī qĭhù, zhào wúmián.
The moon goes round the red mansions through gauze-draped windows, soft to shed
her light upon the sleepless bed.
不应有恨，何事长向别时圆？
Bù yīng yǒu hèn, héshì cháng xiàng bié shí yuán?
Why then when people are apart, is the moon oft full and bright?
人有悲欢离合，月有阴晴圆缺，此事古难全。
Rén yǒu bēihuānlíhé, yuè yǒu yīnqíngyuánquē, cĭshì gŭ nán quán.
People have sorrow and joy, they separate or meet again; the moon is bright or dim and the moon may wax or wane. There has not been anything perfect since the olden days.
但愿人长久，千里共婵娟。
Dànyuàn rén chángjiŭ, qiānlĭ gòng chánjuān.
So let us wish that people live as long as they can! Though miles apart, we'll share the beauty they display.
Halloween in China
In China, people call Halloween万圣节(wànshèngjié), where people use 南瓜(nánguā) pumpkins to carve all kinds of funny faces and shapes to ward off evil spirits. Many colleges in China hold parties in which students wear 面具(miànjù) masks and clothes that they design for themselves to frighten others.
People in China have their own "Halloween"called 中元节(zhōngyuánjié) Mid-July Festival or 饿鬼节(èguĭjié) The Hungry Ghost Festival, which originates from Chinese Taoism. It falls on the fifteenth of every July in lunar calender. On the day of the festival, people float river lanterns to remember those who have died. They use boards and colorful paper to make all kinds of lanterns, with candles burning in the middle.
People in China have their own "Halloween"called 中元节(zhōngyuánjié) Mid-July Festival or 饿鬼节(èguĭjié) The Hungry Ghost Festival, which originates from Chinese Taoism. It falls on the fifteenth of every July in lunar calender. On the day of the festival, people float river lanterns to remember those who have died. They use boards and colorful paper to make all kinds of lanterns, with candles burning in the middle.
Learn more at
Chinese Mini-Test
Beginner Level 初级 chūjí
What does the phrase "巧克力(qiăokèlì)" refer to?
A. Biscuit
B. Orange
C. Chocolate
D. Coffee
Check your answer at
2012年8月18日星期六
Chinese Idiom: 大材小用 (dàcáixiǎoyòng) to waste one's talent on a petty job
"大材小用 (dàcáixiǎoyòng)" literally means "to use big materials to do small things". It is used now to express that talented people are being misused.
Nánsòng mò, Jīnguó búduàn nán qīn. Xīn Qìjí cānjiāle kàng jīn yì jūn.
南宋 末， 金国 不断 南 侵。辛弃疾 参加了 抗 金 义军。
At the end of the Nan Song Dynasty, the state of Jin invaded many times. Xin Qiji served in the Army.
Hòulái, tā zài cháoting lǐ lì rèn Húběi, Jiāngxī děng fǔshǐ.
后来， 他在 朝廷 里历 任 湖北、 江西 等 抚使。
Eventually, he was named governor in charge of the provinces of Hubei and Jiangxi.
Tā bùjǐn shì ge ài guó yīngxióng, hái xiěle hěn duō ài guó shīcí.
他 不仅 是 个爱 国 英雄， 还 写了 很 多 爱 国 诗词。
He was not only a patriotic hero, but also a talented poet who wrote many poems based on patriotic themes.
1203 nián, tā bèi rènmìng wéi Zhèdōng ānfǔshǐ, cháng yǔ àiguó shīrén Lù Yóu yìlùn guójiā dà shì.
1203 年，他 被 任命 为 浙东 安抚使，常 与 爱国 诗人 陆 游议论 国家 大 事。
In the year 1203, the government appointed him as the governor of Zhedong. He often talked about national affairs with Lu You, a patriotic poet.
Dì èr nián, huángdì yào tā qù jīngchéng, wènxún tā duì běi fá Jīnguó de yìjian.
第 二 年， 皇帝 要 他去 京城， 询问 他 对 北 伐 金国 的 意见。
In the following year, the emperor summoned Xin Qiji to the capital to ask him for his advice about the war with the state of Jin.
Zǒu zhī qián, Lù Yóu sòng tā yì shǒu shī, shī zhōng shuō: Xīn Qìjí zuò ānfǔshǐ tài dàcáixiǎoyòng le.
走 之 前，陆 游 送 他一 首 诗，诗 中 说：辛 弃疾 做 安抚使 太 大材小用 了。
Before Xin Qiji went to the capital, Lu You wrote a poem for him. He wrote: It is a waste of talent to have Xin Qiji serve as the governor of Zhedong; he deserves more.
Xīn Qìjí dàole jīngchéng, huángdì què zhǐ ānpái tā zuò Zhènjiāngfǔ zhīfǔ.辛 弃疾到了 京城， 皇帝 却 只 安排 他 做 镇江府 知府。
But when Xin Qiji went to the capital, the emperor made him the governor of Zhenjiang anyway.
Bùjiǔ, zhè wèi ài guó yīngxióng biàn zài yōufèn zhōng bìng shì.
不久，这 位 爱 国 英雄 便 在 忧愤 中 病 逝。
Soon after, the hero Xin Qiji died in sorrow and indignation as a result of working at a job that did not utilize his talents.
Nowadays, people use the word "大材小用 (dàcáixiǎoyòng)" to describe …
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中国茶 (Zhōngguóchá) Chinese Tea
Chinese tea has a history of over 5000 years in China, and it has been a daily beverage for most Chinese. There is a variety of Chinese tea, such as white tea, green tea, black tea, pu’er tea and so on. In ancient times, Chinese people recognized the benefits of all kinds of tea. For example, green tea is helpful for “减肥 (jiănféi) losing weight,” black tea for preventing heart disease, and pu’er tea for “美容 (měiróng) facial beautification” as well as hypertension. Nowadays, more and more young people take tea in order to “减肥 (jiănféi) lose weight“ or for “美容 (měiróng) facial beautification.”
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财神来，钱财到 To Greet the God of Wealth and wish for good fortune (Intermediate)
During the Chinese New Year, the most important business motto is "财源滚滚 (cáiyuán gǔngǔn) profits can pour in from all sides." So in China, businesses will close on lunar new year's eve and have a grand opening on the 5th of January in the lunar new year. People will set off firecrackers and fireworks "迎接 (yíngjiē) to greet" the God of Wealth. Doing so is supposed to bring them fortune of wealth and also their customers a happy Chinese New Year. Why do businesses choose January 5 to greet "财神 (cáishén) the God of Wealth?" Generally speaking, Chinese people consecrate a Taoist god named Zhao Gaoming as the God of Wealth and his birthday is said to be on the "正月 (zhēngyuè) lunar January" 5th. Many Chinese businesses embrace the image of Zhao Gongming, wishing he would bless their business with success.
There is another god worshiped by some Chinese business people named Guan Yu. He was a hero from a Chinese classic novel called The Romance of the Three Kingdoms. He is famous for his "忠诚 (zhōngchéng) loyalty," "正义 (zhèngyì) righteousness" as well as his "诚信 (chéngxìn) honest." All of these are aspects that are highly appraised in the modern business community. Business people are encouraged to acquire fortune by honorable means, or Guan Yu will not show any mercy with his dragon crescent moon sword.
There is another god worshiped by some Chinese business people named Guan Yu. He was a hero from a Chinese classic novel called The Romance of the Three Kingdoms. He is famous for his "忠诚 (zhōngchéng) loyalty," "正义 (zhèngyì) righteousness" as well as his "诚信 (chéngxìn) honest." All of these are aspects that are highly appraised in the modern business community. Business people are encouraged to acquire fortune by honorable means, or Guan Yu will not show any mercy with his dragon crescent moon sword.
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