Understanding "表决" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 表决
• Pinyin: biǎojué
• Literal Meaning: “express + decide”
• Primary Meaning: To vote; to decide or pass something by voting

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
  “表决” is a formal term used when a group makes a decision through a voting process. It often appears in meetings, committees, legislative bodies, and organizational settings. The word can be used as a verb (e.g., “to vote on something”) or as a noun (e.g., “a vote”). In many contexts, it implies an official procedure, not a casual show of preference. You will encounter it in phrases like “进行表决” (to proceed to a vote) or “表决通过” (to pass by vote).

• Character Breakdown:

• 表 (biǎo): Originally “surface” or “exterior,” it also means “to show,” “to express,” or “to manifest.” In this word, it carries the meaning of making one’s opinion visible.
• 决 (jué): To decide, determine, or settle. It conveys finality—reaching a conclusion after consideration.
  Together, the characters create the sense of “expressing a decision” or “making a choice known,” which perfectly fits the act of voting.

3. Example Sentences

• Chinese: 会议通过表决通过了新规定。
  Pinyin: Huìyì tōngguò biǎojué tōngguò le xīn guīdìng.
  English: The meeting adopted the new regulation by vote.

• Chinese: 请各位代表举手表决。
  Pinyin: Qǐng gèwèi dàibiǎo jǔshǒu biǎojué.
  English: Delegates, please vote by a show of hands.

• Chinese: 我们对这个问题进行了表决。
  Pinyin: Wǒmen duì zhège wèntí jìnxíng le biǎojué.
  English: We voted on this issue.

Cultural Notes

In China, “表决” is a keyword in political and organizational life. At the National People’s Congress or Party Congresses, delegates “表决” important laws and resolutions. The phrase “举手表决” (vote by show of hands) is a familiar image, though electronic voting systems are also used. The word itself is neutral and procedural, but its frequent use in news reports and official documents gives it a serious, formal tone. Understanding “表决” helps learners grasp how collective decisions are described in Chinese public life.

Conclusion

Think of “表决” as the moment when a group formally expresses its choice to reach a decision. The characters 表 (express) and 决 (decide) neatly encapsulate the voting process. Whenever you need to talk about voting on a motion or deciding something by collective ballot in a formal context, “表决” is your word.