编排

• Pinyin: biān pái
• Hanzi breakdown: 编 = 纟 (silk/thread) + 扁 (flat); 排 = 扌 (hand) + 非 (not)

Meaning

To arrange; to choreograph; to organize (content or performances).

Refers to arranging elements in a sequence or pattern, whether choreographing dance routines, organizing a publication layout, or structuring a program. Can also colloquially mean to make up stories about someone (gossip).

Examples

1. 春晚节目的编排需要提前好几个月准备。 Arranging the Spring Festival Gala program requires months of preparation in advance.
2. 这套舞蹈是她自己编排的，动作流畅又有创意。 She choreographed this dance routine herself — the movements are fluid and creative.
3. 杂志的版面编排要既美观又方便阅读。 Magazine layout design should be both aesthetically pleasing and easy to read.

Usage Guide

Context: performance, publishing, organization

Tone: creative

Do Say

• 这个节目编排得很精彩。(This show is brilliantly arranged.)
• 谁负责编排演出顺序？(Who's in charge of arranging the performance order?)

Don't Say

• 正式场合用编排表示造谣 (In formal contexts, don't use 编排 to mean gossiping — use 造谣 or 议论)

Origin & History

编 (compile) + 排 (arrange). To compile and arrange.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal