Understanding "会议" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 会议
• Pinyin: huì yì
• Literal Meaning: "会" (huì) means "meeting" or "gathering," and "议" (yì) means "discussion" or "deliberation." Together, they literally mean "a gathering for discussion."
• Primary Meaning: The primary meaning of "会议" is "meeting" or "conference," referring to a formal assembly of people to discuss or decide on matters.

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• "会议" is used in formal or professional settings, such as business meetings, academic conferences, or government assemblies.
• It implies a structured event with an agenda, unlike casual gatherings (which might use words like "聚会" - jù huì).

• Common collocations include:

  • 召开会议 (zhào kāi huì yì) - "to convene a meeting"
  • 参加会议 (cān jiā huì yì) - "to attend a meeting"
  • 会议记录 (huì yì jì lù) - "meeting minutes"

• Character Breakdown:

• 会 (huì): Means "meeting," "can," or "will." Here, it emphasizes the gathering aspect.
• 议 (yì): Means "discussion," "debate," or "opinion." It highlights the purpose of the gathering.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 我们今天下午有一个重要的会议。
   Pinyin: Wǒmen jīntiān xiàwǔ yǒu yī gè zhòngyào de huìyì.
   English: We have an important meeting this afternoon.

2. Chinese: 请准时参加明天的部门会议。
   Pinyin: Qǐng zhǔnshí cānjiā míngtiān de bùmén huìyì.
   English: Please attend tomorrow's department meeting on time.

3. Chinese: 这次会议讨论了公司的发展计划。
   Pinyin: Zhè cì huìyì tǎolùn le gōngsī de fāzhǎn jìhuà.
   English: This meeting discussed the company's development plan.

Cultural Notes

• In Chinese business culture, meetings are often hierarchical, with senior members leading discussions.
• Punctuality is highly valued, and it’s considered respectful to arrive early.
• Meetings may include formalities like tea service or opening speeches, depending on the context.

Conclusion

"会议" (huì yì) is a formal term for "meeting" or "conference," emphasizing structured discussion. Remember its components: 会 (gathering) + 议 (discussion). Use it in professional or official contexts, and pay attention to cultural norms like punctuality and hierarchy.