Here are some Chinese phrases that anyone dealing with China might find useful to know:
Fendou - 奋斗
Struggle, hard work.
There’s a strong belief that hard work and plain living is the way to build up
a person – and a country, as well. Fendou is the drive that allows China to
catch up
Renao - 热闹
Lively,
hot, noisy. Whereas Danes typically prefer a quiet, orderly setting, Chinese
often like to go where everyone else is mingling, talking, eating.
Mianzi
- 面对
Face.
Showing a big face, protecting face is very important. Nice clothes, a big car,
an impressive façade on the house, paying the bills at restaurants – even if
you can’t really afford it.
Shanzhai
- 山寨
Literally:
The bandit’s nest. Refers to pirated copies and low quality semi-legal
products. Shanzhai companies are used to working fast, delivering what
customers want, really cheap and with whatever means it takes.
Hexie, 和谐
Harmony. A very important concept in later years. Chinese leaders have
emphasized the wish to develop a harmonius society, with comfortable, stable
and fair relationships. Family and teams in companies should also be in
harmony.
Shuang
- 爽
If
something is just great, feels wonderful, clear, bright and satisfying, the
Chinese will call it Shuang, in an affectionate voice.
Jia You- 加油
Literally means: Add gas.
Usually a shout to encourage someone to work harder: Go! Commonly used at
sporting events, or to ask employees to speed up.