绰号

• Pinyin: chuò hào
• Hanzi breakdown: 绰 = 纟(silk) + 卓 (outstanding, additional); 号 = 口 (mouth) + 丂 (call, name)

Meaning

Nickname; moniker. An informal name given to someone, often based on their appearance, personality, or a notable characteristic.

Unlike 昵称 (affectionate nickname), 绰号 can be neutral or even slightly mocking. Common in schools, workplaces, and among friends. Can be flattering or teasing depending on context.

Examples

1. 他因为跑得快，同学们给他起了个绰号叫闪电。 Because he runs so fast, his classmates gave him the nickname 'Lightning.
2. 这个绰号跟了他二十年，到现在朋友们还这么叫他。 This nickname has followed him for twenty years, and his friends still call him that.
3. 她不喜欢别人用绰号称呼她，觉得不够尊重。 She doesn't like people using her nickname — she feels it's not respectful enough.

Usage Guide

Context: social, informal, descriptive

Tone: casual

Do Say

• 你的绰号是什么？(What's your nickname?)
• 同事们给他起了个绰号叫老黄牛，因为他工作特别勤奋。(His colleagues nicknamed him 'Old Ox' because he works so diligently.)

Don't Say

• 请问您的绰号是？(Don't ask for nicknames in formal situations — use 称呼 or 名字 instead)

Origin & History

Compound of 绰 (spacious, also used for extra/additional) + 号 (name, designation). Literally an 'extra name' beyond one's formal name.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal