Definition
书生 refers to a scholar or intellectual, especially in traditional Chinese literary and historical contexts. The word can carry a slightly negative connotation of a bookish person who lacks practical, real-world experience—think of the stereotypical poor, idealistic scholar from classic Chinese novels.
n.
scholar (often in a traditional or historical context)bookish personimpractical intellectual (sometimes derogatory)
Examples
- 书生。Gǔdài hěnduō shū shēng dōu xīwàng tōngguò kējǔ kǎoshì gǎibiàn mìngyùn.In ancient times, many scholars hoped to change their fate through the imperial examinations.
- 书生，。Tā zhǐ shì yí gè shū shēng, duì shíjì shēngyi yì qiào bù tōng.He's just a bookish scholar with no understanding of real business.
- 书生，。Xiǎoshuō lǐ de shū shēng wǎngwǎng xìnggé juéjiàng, dàn xīndì shànliáng.The scholar in the novel is often stubborn in character but kind-hearted.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.