Understanding "国庆" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 国庆
• Pinyin: guó qìng
• Literal Meaning: "nation" (国) + "celebration" (庆) = "national celebration"
• Primary Meaning: Refers to the National Day of China, celebrated on October 1st to commemorate the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"国庆" is most commonly used to refer to China's National Day (国庆节, guó qìng jié), a major public holiday marked by celebrations, fireworks, and patriotic events. It can also be used more broadly to describe national celebrations in other contexts (e.g., "美国国庆" for the U.S. Independence Day), but this is less common.

Character Breakdown

• 国 (guó): Means "nation" or "country."
• 庆 (qìng): Means "celebration" or "to celebrate."
  Together, they form a word that emphasizes the celebration of the nation.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 国庆节期间，北京有很多庆祝活动。
   Pinyin: Guó qìng jié qī jiān, Běi jīng yǒu hěn duō qìng zhù huó dòng.
   English: During National Day, there are many celebratory events in Beijing.

2. Chinese: 我们每年都看国庆阅兵。
   Pinyin: Wǒ men měi nián dōu kàn guó qìng yuè bīng.
   English: We watch the National Day military parade every year.

3. Chinese: 国庆假期很多人去旅游。
   Pinyin: Guó qìng jià qī hěn duō rén qù lǚ yóu.
   English: Many people travel during the National Day holiday.

Cultural Notes

• Golden Week: "国庆" is part of a 7-day holiday known as "Golden Week" (黄金周, huáng jīn zhōu), one of the busiest travel periods in China.
• Patriotism: The day is marked by strong displays of national pride, including flag-raising ceremonies and cultural performances.
• Fireworks: Major cities like Beijing and Shanghai host grand fireworks displays.

Conclusion

"国庆" (guó qìng) is a key term for China's National Day, combining "nation" and "celebration." It’s associated with patriotic events, travel, and family gatherings. Remember it as the time when China celebrates its founding with joy and pride!