Definition
戏子 (historical pronunciation xìzǐ) is a derogatory term for actors or actresses, originating from ancient China when performers held low social status. Modern Chinese avoids this term due to its condescending tone; use 演员 (yǎnyuán) instead. Note: The pinyin in this entry is incorrect; the standard reading is xìzǐ.
n.
(derogatory, historical) actoractress
Examples
- ，戏子。Zài gǔdài, hū de shèhuì dìwèi hěn dī.In ancient times, actors had very low social status.
- 戏子，。Xiànzài hěn shǎo yǒu rén yòng hū zhège cí, yīnwèi tā bú tài zūnzhòng.Nowadays few people use the word 'xizi' because it's not very respectful.
- 戏子。Yòng hū chēnghu yǎnyuán shì yì zhǒng wǔrǔ.Calling an actor 'xizi' is an insult.
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