青年

• Pinyin: qīng nián
• Hanzi breakdown: 青 (qīng) — green, young; 年 (nián) — year, age

Meaning

Youth; young person; young adult. Refers to people roughly between 18 and 35 years old.

A somewhat formal term for young adults, as opposed to 年轻人 (young people, more colloquial). Used in official contexts like 青年节 (Youth Day, May 4th) and organisations. Carries a positive connotation of energy, idealism, and potential.

Examples

1. 现在的青年很有想法。 Today's young people are very creative.
2. 他是一个有才华的青年。 He is a talented young person.
3. 青年人应该多读书。 Young people should read more books.

Usage Guide

Context: society, news, official contexts

Tone: positive

Do Say

• 青年人是国家的未来。(Young people are the future of the country.)
• 她是一位优秀的青年。(She is an outstanding young person.)

Don't Say

• 不要用青年来称呼小孩子 (Don't call children 青年 — 青年 refers to young adults roughly 18-35; for children and teenagers use 少年 or 青少年)

Origin & History

青 (qīng, green/young) + 年 (nián, year). Green symbolises youth and vitality, so 'green years' means the time of youth.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal