Mandarin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
mandarin
[หmand(ษ)rษชn ]
Definitions
Chinese language
The official standard spoken language of China, based on the Beijing dialect, with over a billion speakers worldwide.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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mandarin |
Specifically refers to the standard Chinese language spoken in China. Often used in formal or educational contexts.
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Chinese |
General term referring to anything related to China, including the people, culture, language, etc.
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Putonghua |
Official term for the standard Mandarin language used in People's Republic of China. Commonly used in official or technical contexts.
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Examples of usage
- Mandarin is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world.
- I am learning Mandarin to communicate with my Chinese friends.
Fruit
A small, flat, orange-colored citrus fruit with a slightly sweet flavor.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
mandarin |
Typically refers to the general category of small citrus fruits that are easy to peel. It can also refer specifically to the fruit used in Chinese recipes.
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tangerine |
Refers to a variety of mandarin that is typically more tart and colourful than clementines. Often discussed in terms of its flavor in fruit salads or as a fresh snack.
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clementine |
Best used when referring to a specific type of mandarin orange known for its sweetness and seedless nature. Commonly consumed fresh or used in desserts.
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Examples of usage
- She enjoys eating mandarins as a healthy snack.
- The mandarin tree in the garden is full of ripe fruits.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culinary Interests
- Mandarins are often enjoyed fresh or juiced and are a popular snack for children because they are easy to peel.
- The fruit is frequently used in desserts, salads, and Asian dishes, highlighting its versatility in culinary applications.
- Due to their sweetness, mandarins are a favorite among fruits used to introduce kids to healthy eating habits.
Cultural Significance
- In China, mandarins symbolize good fortune and are commonly given as gifts during the Lunar New Year.
- The fruitโs vibrant color and easy-to-eat nature make it a popular choice in many Asian cultural festivities.
- Mandarins are celebrated in various folk songs and stories, showcasing their importance in everyday life and culture.
Botanical Facts
- Mandarins belong to the Citrus genus and are a hybrid of the pomelo and the mandarin orange.
- They thrive in subtropical climates, making them a staple fruit in many warm regions around the world.
- The fruit is not only delicious but is also rich in vitamin C, which supports health and immunity.
Pop Culture
- The term 'mandarin' also appears in literature and media as a character type, often representing authority and wisdom.
- In modern usage, 'mandarin' can refer to the language spoken by officials in China, making it a key topic in language learning.
- Movies and stories often depict mandarin oranges as symbols of prosperity and happiness during festive scenes.
Origin of 'mandarin'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Chinese word for the fruit, 'tangerine', and was popularized in Western languages in the 19th century.
- Initially, 'mandarin' referred to a class of aristocrats in China, reflecting its historical significance in governance.
- Etymologically, itโs derived from 'mandar', meaning to command, emphasizing the authoritative role of these officials.
The word 'mandarin' has an interesting history. It originally referred to a high-ranking official in the imperial Chinese government. Over time, the term became associated with the Chinese language, specifically the Beijing dialect. The use of 'mandarin' to refer to a type of citrus fruit likely comes from the orange color of the robes worn by mandarins in the past.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #24,370, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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