MANDARIN Meaning and
Definition
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Mandarin can refer to different meanings and contexts. In terms of language, Mandarin is one of the major regional varieties of the Chinese language. It is the standard dialect used by the government and educational institutions in both the People's Republic of China and the Republic of China (Taiwan). Mandarin is also spoken by a considerable number of Chinese communities in various other parts of the world. It is characterized by its wide use of tone distinctions, which play a crucial role in distinguishing the meaning of words. Mandarin is written using Chinese characters, which represent both sound and meaning.
Additionally, "mandarin" can also refer to a high-ranking official in imperial China during the Qing and Ming dynasties. These officials were in charge of various administrative tasks and held significant influence in the government.
The term "mandarin" can also denote a type of small, citrus fruit that originated in Southeast Asia and is known for its easy-to-peel skin and sweet, tangy flavor. Mandarins are generally smaller than oranges and have a looser skin, making them easier to separate into segments.
In a more metaphorical sense, "mandarin" can be used to describe a person who is influential, intellectual, or highly cultured, typically in the field of arts or academia. This usage implies a person of authority or expertise in their respective domain.
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The general name given by Europeans to any one of the titled and governing body in China; a Chinese magistrate or governor.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for MANDARIN *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for MANDARIN
Etymology of MANDARIN
The word "mandarin" has an interesting etymology rooted in the history and culture of China.
The term "mandarin" originally comes from the Portuguese word "mandarim", which in turn is derived from the Malay word "menteri" meaning "minister" or "counselor". The Portuguese word was adopted during the European colonial period when they encountered Chinese officials and scholars who held high positions in the Imperial bureaucracy.
However, the term "mandarin" goes even further back in history. In Chinese, the word for mandarin is "guān yuán" (官员), which literally translates to "government official" or "bureaucrat". The Chinese term originates from the idea that an official or bureaucrat held a prestigious position similar to that of the Portuguese ministers.
Similar spelling words for MANDARIN
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