摇滚 — meaning in English: Rock

Usage

Native speakers commonly use '摇滚' when discussing music genres, attending concerts, or participating in discussions about bands and rock culture. For example, you might hear someone enthusiastically say '我喜欢摇滚音乐' (I love rock music) while chatting with friends at a music festival.

Synonyms & nuances

'摇滚' is specific to rock music, whereas similar terms like '流行' (liúxíng) refer to pop music. Use '摇滚' when you want to evoke the rebellious and spirited nature of rock, distinguishing it from the more polished sounds of pop.

Culture

'摇滚' (yáogǔn) literally translates to 'shake roll,' embodying the energetic essence of rock music. This genre gained significant traction in China during the late 1980s and 1990s, paralleling China's opening up to Western culture. Notable bands like Cui Jian, often called the 'father of Chinese rock,' have used this music style as a vehicle for expressing social and political commentary.

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