拆迁

• Pinyin: chāi qiān
• Hanzi breakdown: 拆 = 扌(hand) + 斥, to demolish; 迁 = 辶(walk) + 千, to relocate

Meaning

Demolition and relocation; to demolish and relocate. Urban redevelopment involving building removal.

A significant term in Chinese urban development referring to the demolition of old buildings and relocation of residents, typically for city modernization or infrastructure projects. Can be controversial due to disputes over compensation and forced relocations. Common in news and social discussions.

Examples

1. 这片老城区即将拆迁，居民们正在办理搬迁手续。 This old urban area is about to undergo demolition and relocation — residents are handling the moving procedures.
2. 拆迁补偿方案引发了居民的不满。 The demolition compensation plan has caused dissatisfaction among residents.
3. 政府承诺在拆迁前会充分征求居民意见。 The government promised to fully consult with residents before demolition.

Usage Guide

Context: urban development, news, social issues

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 他家赶上了拆迁，拿到了一笔补偿款。(His family caught the demolition and relocation wave and received compensation.)
• 拆迁户的安置问题需要妥善解决。(The resettlement of demolished households needs to be properly addressed.)

Don't Say

• 注意'拆迁'在中国语境中可能涉及敏感话题 (Be aware that 拆迁 can involve sensitive topics in China, including forced relocations and compensation disputes)

Origin & History

Compound of 拆 (to demolish) + 迁 (to move, relocate). Describes the full process of urban renewal.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal