代理
dài lǐ HSK 6

English Meaning

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📚 Example Sentences

他代理经理处理业务。
Tā dàilǐ jīnglǐ chǔlǐ yèwù.
He acts as the manager to handle business.
这家公司代理外国产品。
Zhè jiā gōngsī dàilǐ wàiguó chǎnpǐn.
This company represents foreign products.
律师代理客户出庭。
Lǜshī dàilǐ kèhù chūtíng.
The lawyer represents the client in court.
他代理经理。
Tā dàilǐ jīnglǐ.
He acts as the manager.
我代理老师。
Wǒ dàilǐ lǎoshī.
I substitute for the teacher.

💡 Memory Tip

Break it down: 代 (dài) means 'to substitute' or 'generation,' and 理 (lǐ) means 'to manage' or 'reason.' Think of it as 'substitute management'—managing something on behalf of another.

📝 Usage Notes

This word is neutral in formality and used in both spoken and written Chinese. It is common in professional, legal, and business contexts, such as in offices (代理经理), legal matters (代理律师), or commerce (代理产品).

📖 Grammar Points

It can be used as a verb (e.g., 代理总经理的工作) or as part of a noun phrase (e.g., 他是公司的代理). It often follows a subject and precedes the role or task being represented.

🏯 Cultural Notes

In Chinese business culture, 代理 is common in hierarchical structures where temporary leadership is needed, reflecting respect for authority and smooth workflow during absences. It's also key in commercial agent relationships.

🔄 Similar Words

代表 (dàibiǎo) also means 'to represent,' but it often implies a more permanent or symbolic role (e.g., representing a country), while 代理 emphasizes temporary substitution or acting on behalf in practical duties.

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