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主人 — meaning in English: the host

zhǔrén · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for host
公布
gōngbù
piàn
讲话
jiǎnghuà
主人
zhǔrén
同意
tóngyì
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use '主人' (zhǔrén) when referring to a host during gatherings such as dinner parties or formal events. For instance, at a wedding, the couple may be addressed as the '主人' of the ceremony, highlighting their role in welcoming guests.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is '东道主' (dōngdàozhǔ), which specifically refers to a host but emphasizes the role of the host in entertaining guests. You might choose '主人' when describing a more general context, while '东道主' is used in more formal or celebratory situations, particularly in public events.
Culture
'主人' (zhǔrén) literally translates to 'master person,' with '主' meaning 'master' or 'host' and '人' meaning 'person.' This term reflects the deep-rooted value of hospitality in Chinese culture, where being a gracious host is often seen as a reflection of one’s character and social standing.
FAQ
Q.What does '主人' mean in English?
'主人' (zhǔrén) translates to 'the host' or 'master person' in English, referring to someone who welcomes guests or is in charge of an event.
Q.How do I use '主人' in a sentence?
You can use '主人' in sentences like '他是这次聚会的主人' (tā shì zhè cì jùhuì de zhǔrén), meaning 'He is the host of this gathering.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using '主人'?
A common mistake is to confuse '主人' with '客服' (kèfù), which means 'customer service.' Remember that '主人' specifically refers to a host or master, while '客服' relates to service roles.
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Chinese (Mandarin) 2000