商量

• Pinyin: shāng liang
• Hanzi breakdown: 商 = originally a pictograph related to commerce and negotiation; 量 = 日 (sun) + 里 (inside) — originally related to measuring

Meaning

To discuss; to consult; to talk something over. Implies seeking mutual agreement.

Used when people need to discuss something together before making a decision. Carries a collaborative tone — it implies respect for the other person's opinion. Common phrases include 跟...商量 (to discuss with someone), 商量一下 (let's talk it over), and 有事商量 (to have something to discuss).

Examples

1. 我们商量一下周末去哪里玩。 Let's discuss where to go for fun this weekend.
2. 这件事你跟妈妈商量了吗？ Did you talk this over with Mom?
3. 有什么问题可以大家一起商量。 If there are any problems, everyone can discuss together.

Usage Guide

Context: decision-making, family, workplace

Tone: collaborative

Do Say

• 我们商量一下怎么办。(Let's discuss what to do.)
• 你先跟他商量商量。(Talk it over with him first.)

Don't Say

• 不要对长辈用命令的语气代替商量 (Don't order someone when you should be consulting — use 商量 to show respect for their opinion, especially with elders or colleagues)

Origin & History

商 (shāng, commerce/discuss) + 量 (liang, to measure/consider). The combination suggests weighing and measuring ideas together — deliberating.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal