春节必备英语词汇,让你过个地道洋年
春节必备英语词汇,让你过个地道洋年
The Spring Festival, also known as Chinese New Year, is the most important traditional festival in China. It marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is celebrated by over two billion people worldwide. This festive season is a time for family reunions, traditional customs, and vibrant celebrations. Let's dive into some essential vocabulary to help you navigate this joyous occasion.
Festival Names and Dates
- Spring Festival / Chinese New Year: The official names for the festival.
- Lunar New Year: Another term used to distinguish it from the Western New Year.
- New Year's Eve / Chinese New Year's Eve: The night before the festival begins.
The date of the Spring Festival varies each year, falling between January 21st and February 20th. In 2025, it will be celebrated on January 29th.
Preparations and Decorations
- Cleaning: Before the festival, houses are thoroughly cleaned to sweep away bad luck.
- Red Decorations: Red is the dominant color, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.
- Lanterns: Red lanterns are hung in streets and homes.
- Couplets: Red paper scrolls with auspicious phrases are pasted on doors.
- Paper Cuttings: Intricate red paper designs are used to decorate windows.
Family Traditions
- Reunion Dinner: A lavish meal enjoyed by families on New Year's Eve.
- Ancestor Worship: Offerings are made to ancestors before the reunion dinner.
- Staying Up Late: Families stay up late to "守岁" (shousui), warding off evil spirits.
Gifts and Blessings
- Red Envelopes / Lucky Money: Elders give children red envelopes containing money as a blessing.
- Gifts: Exchanging gifts is common among relatives and friends.
Celebratory Activities
- Fireworks and Firecrackers: Used to scare away evil spirits and create a festive atmosphere.
- Dragon and Lion Dances: Performances believed to bring prosperity and chase away misfortune.
- Temple Fairs: Festive markets where people can enjoy traditional food and entertainment.
Traditional Foods
- Dumplings: Shaped like ancient Chinese gold ingots, symbolizing wealth.
- Tangyuan: Glutinous rice balls eaten on the 15th day of the festival, representing family unity.
- Fish: Often served whole to symbolize abundance and prosperity.
The Spring Festival is not just about celebrations; it's also a time for reflection and renewal. As families gather and traditions are passed down, the spirit of the festival continues to thrive. Whether you're in China or celebrating abroad, these vocabulary words will help you join in the festivities and experience the warmth and joy of the Spring Festival.