Meaning
钦差 refers to an official envoy or commissioner dispatched directly by the emperor in imperial China. This person carried the emperor's authority and was sent to investigate matters, deliver edicts, or handle important state affairs in distant regions. The term carries connotations of high authority and direct imperial mandate.
Usage
This is a historical term primarily used when discussing imperial China or in period dramas. In modern usage, it may be used metaphorically or humorously to refer to someone sent with special authority from higher management. The term emphasizes the direct connection to the highest authority and the special powers granted to the envoy.
Examples
- 01皇帝派遣钦差前往江南调查贪污案件。.The emperor dispatched an imperial envoy to Jiangnan to investigate corruption cases.
- 02这部历史剧讲述了一位钦差大臣微服私访的故事。.This historical drama tells the story of an imperial commissioner traveling incognito among the people.
Characters
Measure words
- 位一位钦差
- 名两名钦差
Common collocations
- 钦差大臣imperial commissioner (high-ranking)
- 派遣钦差to dispatch an imperial envoy
- 钦差巡视imperial envoy on inspection tour
Origin
钦 originally means to respect or venerate, and in imperial contexts specifically refers to the emperor. 差 means to dispatch or send someone on a mission. Together, 钦差 literally means someone dispatched with imperial respect or authority, emphasizing the direct imperial mandate.