长辈

• Pinyin: zhǎng bèi
• Hanzi breakdown: 长 = 长 (long/senior); 辈 = 非 + 车 (generation)

Meaning

Elder; senior; older generation. People of an older generation in one's family or social circle.

Includes parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, and older respected figures. Emphasizes generational hierarchy in Chinese culture. Opposite of 晚辈 (younger generation). Shows respect: 尊重长辈.

Examples

1. 过年时，晚辈要向长辈拜年并送上祝福。 During the Lunar New Year, younger family members should pay their respects to elders and offer well wishes.
2. 中国传统文化强调尊重长辈、孝敬父母。 Traditional Chinese culture emphasizes respecting elders and being filial to one’s parents.
3. 在长辈面前说话要注意礼貌，不能随便开玩笑。 When speaking in front of elders, you should be mindful of your manners and not joke around casually.

Usage Guide

Context: family, social hierarchy, etiquette

Tone: respectful

Do Say

• 和长辈交谈时应该放下手机，认真倾听。(When talking with elders, you should put down your phone and listen attentively.)
• 春节给长辈拜年是中华民族的传统习俗。(Paying New Year's respects to elders during Spring Festival is a traditional Chinese custom.)

Don't Say

• 我的长辈朋友 — 长辈 implies generational seniority; for older friends, use 年长的朋友

Origin & History

长 (senior/older) + 辈 (generation)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal