noun / measure word HSK 5
Traditional 輩
generation · lifetime · peer group · classifier for generations
Meaning
辈 refers to a generation or a group of people of similar age or status. It's commonly used to discuss family generations (grandparents, parents, children) or to describe one's peers. As a measure word, it classifies generations of people.
Usage
Most commonly appears in compound words like 长辈 (elders), 晚辈 (juniors), or 同辈 (peers). When used alone, it often refers to one's entire lifetime (一辈子). The term carries respect when discussing generational hierarchy, which is important in Chinese culture.
Examples
- 01我们要尊重长辈的意见。.We should respect the opinions of our elders.
- 02他这辈子最大的愿望就是环游世界。.His greatest wish in this lifetime is to travel around the world.
Common collocations
- 上一辈previous generation
- 下一辈next generation
- 老一辈the older generation
- 这辈人people of this generation
Origin
The traditional form 輩 combines 車 (vehicle/cart) with a phonetic component, originally referring to a group or rank of people, perhaps those traveling together.