Meaning
大使 refers to a high-ranking diplomat who represents their country's government in a foreign nation. It is the official title for the head of an embassy, appointed to maintain diplomatic relations, negotiate agreements, and protect their country's interests abroad.
Usage
This is a formal, official term used in diplomatic and political contexts. It appears frequently in news reports about international relations. Native speakers use it when discussing foreign policy, embassy staff, or official diplomatic visits. The full title often includes the country name, like 美国大使 (U.S. Ambassador).
Examples
- 01中国驻美国大使今天会见了国务卿。.The Chinese ambassador to the United States met with the Secretary of State today.
- 02她被任命为驻法国大使。.She was appointed as ambassador to France.
Characters
Measure words
- 位一位大使
- 名三名大使
Common collocations
- 驻华大使ambassador to China
- 美国大使U.S. ambassador
- 任命大使to appoint an ambassador
- 召回大使to recall an ambassador
Origin
The term literally means 'great envoy.' 使 originally meant 'to send' or 'messenger,' and has been used for diplomatic representatives throughout Chinese history. 大 emphasizes the high rank and importance of this particular type of envoy.