代表
dài biǎo HSK 5

English Meaning

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📚 Example Sentences

他代表公司参加会议。
Tā dàibiǎo gōngsī cānjiā huìyì.
He represents the company at the meeting.
红色在中国代表好运。
Hóngsè zài Zhōngguó dàibiǎo hǎo yùn.
Red represents good luck in China.
这位代表提出了重要建议。
Zhè wèi dàibiǎo tíchū le zhòngyào jiànyì.
This representative put forward important suggestions.
他是我们的代表。
Tā shì wǒmen de dàibiǎo.
He is our representative.
这个符号代表和平。
Zhège fúhào dàibiǎo hépíng.
This symbol stands for peace.

💡 Memory Tip

Break down the characters: 代 (dài) means 'to substitute' or 'generation,' and 表 (biǎo) means 'to express' or 'surface.' Together, think of someone who 'substitutes to express' on behalf of others—like a delegate.

📝 Usage Notes

This word is commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese, especially in formal settings like business, politics, or diplomacy. It appears in contexts such as meetings, negotiations, or events where someone is designated to represent others.

📖 Grammar Points

As a noun, 代表 can be modified by nouns (e.g., 公司代表) or pronouns (e.g., 我们的代表). It is often used with verbs like 作为 (as), 担任 (serve as), or 选举 (elect) to indicate someone's role.

🏯 Cultural Notes

In Chinese culture, 代表 carries a sense of responsibility and honor, as representatives are expected to uphold the reputation and interests of their group. It is common in hierarchical or collective settings, such as workplaces or schools, where representatives are chosen for official duties.

🔄 Similar Words

代理 (dàilǐ) also means 'agent' or 'proxy,' but it often implies temporary substitution in a role (e.g., 代理经理), while 代表 emphasizes authorized representation of a group's interests. 象征 (xiàngzhēng) means 'symbol' and refers to abstract representation, not a person.

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