Mandarin Monday: Breaking Down 2023's Hottest Chinese Buzzwords
Living in China for a while, you might have noticed that buzzwords pop up here and there, becoming the talk of the town – or more accurately, the office. It's like a linguistic fashion show, with trendy phrases strutting down the conversational catwalk. Each year, the linguistics journal Yaowenjiaozi (the name quite literally means "nibbling phrases and munching words") unveils the top Chinese buzzwords of the year, and we've cherry-picked a few 2023 standouts that piqued our interest.
双向奔赴 shuāngxiàng bēnfù
The phrase 双向奔赴 shuāngxiàng bēnfù translates to "two-way efforts", and is frequently used in regards to romantic relationships. It initially referred to a relationship where both parties have mutual feelings. But if it's a one-sided love affair, it's termed 单向奔赴 dān xiàng bēnfù. Currently, this term can be applied to describe any situation requiring mutual contribution for success.
显眼包 xiǎnyǎn bāo
The term 显眼包 xiǎnyǎn bāo paints a picture of something or someone that stands out in a crowd, initially used to describe attention-seekers. However, it has taken on a new meaning, now referring to those with a lively, outgoing personality – the kind of person who can light up the office with their infectious positivity and cheerleader-like personality.
搭子 dā zi
搭子 dā zi is a Shanghainese term originally used to refer to card-playing companions. Its usage has since broadened to denote companions for any activity. You might spot Chinese folks posting about seeking 饭搭子 fàn dā zi (meal companions), 旅游搭子 lǚyóu dā zi (travel buddies), 减肥搭子 jiǎnféi dā zi (weight-loss partners), or even 上厕所搭子 shàng cèsuǒ dā zi (bathroom companions).
多巴胺穿搭 duōbā'àn chuān dā
Well-versed as we are with dopamine, the neurotransmitter vital for wellness and joy, this year has seen a fresh spin on it with the emergence of 多巴胺穿搭 duōbā'àn chuān dā which literally translates to "dopamine dressing". Straying from the minimalist, understated dress code of the past, dopamine dressing employs a palette of high saturation and vibrant hues to visually provoke the onlooker. The aim? To spur the release of dopamine, thus facilitating a sense of pleasure and delight at first sight.
质疑 理解 成为 zhíyí lǐjiě chéngwéi
The buzzword trio 质疑 理解 成为 zhíyí lǐjiě chéngwéi literally translates to "question, comprehend, become". This phrase refers to doubting, understanding, and then eventually embodying the very person you once questioned. It gained traction due to the hit TV show Love Apartment, which follows a female lead who rejects the male lead's proposal to chase after her career aspirations. Initially, her decision was met with skepticism from viewers, but as they matured, they began to comprehend her choices and eventually recognized that love doesn't necessarily hold the utmost importance in life. In time, they found themselves making similar decisions, thus embodying the person they once doubted.
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