Meaning
叛徒 refers to someone who betrays their country, organization, cause, or group by switching allegiance or revealing secrets. It carries a strong negative connotation and implies a serious moral or political transgression, often used in contexts of war, revolution, or organizational loyalty.
Usage
This is a harsh term primarily used in political, military, or ideological contexts. It's more common in written language, news reports, or historical narratives than in casual conversation. When used, it expresses strong disapproval and condemnation of the person's actions.
Examples
- 01他被指控为叛徒，出卖了组织的秘密。, .He was accused of being a traitor and selling out the organization's secrets.
- 02在战争期间，叛徒会受到严厉的惩罚。, .During wartime, traitors will receive severe punishment.
Characters
Measure words
- 个一个叛徒
- 名三名叛徒
Common collocations
- 革命叛徒traitor to the revolution
- 民族叛徒traitor to one's people/nation
- 可耻的叛徒shameful traitor
Antonyms
Origin
叛 combines 半 (half) and 反 (oppose), suggesting division or turning against. 徒 originally meant a follower or person on foot. Together, 叛徒 literally means 'a person who betrays' or 'one who turns against their group.'