noun HSK 1
Traditional 中國人
Chinese person · Chinese people
Meaning
This word literally means 'China person' and refers to people of Chinese nationality or ethnic Chinese individuals. It's one of the most fundamental words for discussing nationality and identity in Mandarin.
Usage
Used in both formal and informal contexts to refer to Chinese nationals or ethnic Chinese. Can be singular or plural without modification. When emphasizing ethnicity rather than nationality, 华人 (Huá rén) is sometimes preferred for overseas Chinese.
Examples
- 01我是中国人。.I am Chinese.
- 02这家餐厅的老板是中国人。.The owner of this restaurant is Chinese.
Characters
Measure words
- 个一个中国人
- 位三位中国人
Common collocations
- 中国人民the Chinese people
- 海外中国人overseas Chinese
Antonyms
Origin
Compound of 中国 (China, literally 'Middle Kingdom') and 人 (person). The concept of China as the 'Middle Kingdom' reflects ancient Chinese worldview of China as the central civilization.