Asian Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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Asian

[ˈeɪʒ(ə)n ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

culture

relating to Asia or its people, languages, or cultures

Synonyms

eastern, oriental.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
Asian	Use this term to describe anything or anyone related to the continent of Asia in a neutral and respectful way. Asian cuisine offers a wide variety of flavors. She studies Asian languages.
oriental	This term is considered outdated and potentially offensive when referring to people. It might still be acceptable in specific historical or cultural contexts, such as in the names of food dishes or art styles. He specializes in oriental rugs. Oriental cuisine can be found in many fusion restaurants.
eastern	This word is best used when referring to the eastern part of a specific region, often implying a cultural or geographical distinction. The eastern coast of the country is known for its beautiful beaches. Eastern philosophy has had a profound impact on Western thought.

Word

Description / Examples

Asian

Use this term to describe anything or anyone related to the continent of Asia in a neutral and respectful way.

Asian cuisine offers a wide variety of flavors.
She studies Asian languages.

oriental

This term is considered outdated and potentially offensive when referring to people. It might still be acceptable in specific historical or cultural contexts, such as in the names of food dishes or art styles.

He specializes in oriental rugs.
Oriental cuisine can be found in many fusion restaurants.

eastern

This word is best used when referring to the eastern part of a specific region, often implying a cultural or geographical distinction.

The eastern coast of the country is known for its beautiful beaches.
Eastern philosophy has had a profound impact on Western thought.

Examples of usage

Many Asian countries celebrate the Lunar New Year.
The Asian cuisine is known for its unique flavors and ingredients.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

ethnicity

a person from Asia or of Asian descent

Examples of usage

She is proud of her Asian heritage.
There were many Asian students at the university.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

zoology

a species of domestic cat originating from Southeast Asia

Synonyms

Burmese cat, Siamese cat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
Asian	In the context of cats, 'Asian' can refer to a breed of cat also known as the 'Asian Shorthair,' which has its origins in the UK and is related to the Burmese breed. The Asian cat is known for its sleek fur and playful nature. Her Asian Shorthair quickly became the family's favorite pet.
Burmese cat	This refers specifically to a breed of cat that originally comes from Burma (Myanmar). These cats are known for their affectionate personality and distinctive, muscular body. The Burmese cat sat purring on the windowsill. He decided to adopt a Burmese cat because of their friendly nature.
Siamese cat	This term is used to describe a breed of cat that comes from Thailand, previously known as Siam. Siamese cats are recognizable by their slender body, blue almond-shaped eyes, and short coat with contrasting color points. A Siamese cat often has a very vocal personality. Her Siamese cat has striking blue eyes and a confident demeanor.

Word

Description / Examples

Asian

In the context of cats, 'Asian' can refer to a breed of cat also known as the 'Asian Shorthair,' which has its origins in the UK and is related to the Burmese breed.

The Asian cat is known for its sleek fur and playful nature.
Her Asian Shorthair quickly became the family's favorite pet.

Burmese cat

This refers specifically to a breed of cat that originally comes from Burma (Myanmar). These cats are known for their affectionate personality and distinctive, muscular body.

The Burmese cat sat purring on the windowsill.
He decided to adopt a Burmese cat because of their friendly nature.

Siamese cat

This term is used to describe a breed of cat that comes from Thailand, previously known as Siam. Siamese cats are recognizable by their slender body, blue almond-shaped eyes, and short coat with contrasting color points.

A Siamese cat often has a very vocal personality.
Her Siamese cat has striking blue eyes and a confident demeanor.

Examples of usage

The Asian cat has distinctive markings on its fur.
These Asian cats are known for their playful nature.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'Asian'

The term 'Asian' originated in the early 17th century and was initially used to describe people, languages, and cultures from the continent of Asia. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings, from ethnicity to geography. The diversity of Asia, with its numerous countries and cultures, has contributed to the rich tapestry of what it means to be Asian. The term continues to be used in various contexts, reflecting the complex and multifaceted nature of the continent.