摆设

• Pinyin: bǎi she
• Hanzi breakdown: 摆 = 扌(hand) + 罢 (phonetic); 设 = to set up/establish

Meaning

Ornament; decoration; display item; something merely for show.

Refers to decorative objects placed around a home or office. Can also be used figuratively and somewhat pejoratively to describe something or someone that exists in name only without real function or influence.

Examples

1. 客厅里的那些摆设都是她从各地旅游带回来的。 All those ornaments in the living room are souvenirs she brought back from her travels.
2. 这个委员会纯粹是摆设，从来没开过一次会。 This committee is purely for show — it has never held a single meeting.
3. 博古架上摆满了各种精致的小摆设。 The antique shelf is filled with all sorts of exquisite little ornaments.

Usage Guide

Context: household, criticism

Tone: descriptive

Do Say

• 这些摆设真有品味。(These ornaments show real taste.)
• 那个职位不过是摆设罢了。(That position is just for show.)

Don't Say

• 把实用家具叫'摆设' (Don't call functional furniture 摆设 — the term implies decorative, non-functional items)

Origin & History

摆 (to place) + 设 (to set up). Objects placed for display.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal