man4 seoi6 zyu2 ji6民粹主義民粹主义
Definition
Populism; a political ideology that pits the general public against a corrupt or self-serving elite.
How it's used
Unlike its usage in some Western political contexts where it might be claimed as a positive label, this term is almost exclusively used as a pejorative in Chinese language discourse. It functions as a label to dismiss political movements or arguments as irrational, simplistic, or dangerous. When speakers use this word, they are typically distancing themselves from the subject and framing it as a threat to established order or expertise.
Examples
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Learners should be careful not to use this term as a neutral descriptor for grassroots movements, as it carries a strong negative connotation that implies demagoguery rather than genuine democratic participation.
Grammar color guide
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
