嘉宾

• Pinyin: jiā bīn
• Hanzi breakdown: 嘉 = 壴 + 加, excellent/praise; 宾 = 宀 (roof) + 兵, guest

Meaning

Distinguished guest; honored guest; guest (on a show).

A formal term for an honored or special guest. Very commonly used in TV shows, events, and ceremonies to refer to invited guests. More formal and respectful than 客人.

Examples

1. 今天我们邀请到了一位重量级嘉宾来到演播室。 Today we have invited a heavyweight guest to our studio.
2. 婚礼上的嘉宾们纷纷举杯祝福新人百年好合。 The guests at the wedding all raised their glasses to wish the newlyweds a lifetime of happiness.
3. 这档综艺节目每期都会邀请不同领域的嘉宾分享经验。 This variety show invites guests from different fields to share their experiences in every episode.

Usage Guide

Context: events, TV shows, ceremonies

Tone: respectful

Do Say

• 请嘉宾上台发言。(Please welcome the guest to the stage to speak.)
• 感谢各位嘉宾的光临。(Thank you to all the distinguished guests for coming.)

Don't Say

• 称来家里串门的朋友为嘉宾 (Too formal — 朋友 or 客人 is more appropriate for casual visits)

Origin & History

Compound of 嘉 (excellent/beautiful) + 宾 (guest). Together meaning 'honored guest.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal