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GUIDE TO CHINESE NAMES FOR JOURNALISTS IN NEW ZEALAND
As an English speaker, navigating Chinese names presents a unique challenge. This guide simplifies of understanding and accurately representing Chinese surnames in journalism.
Language and Pronunciation
Chinese names consist of two parts: the surname preceding the given name. Unlike Western naming conventions, these are often not interchangeable or used as a middle name. Surnames carry cultural significance and may have historical ties to a family's origin or heritage.
Understanding the Components
Surnames: In Chinese cultures, surnames denote descent from an ancestor. The character or characters for each surname carries specific meanings related to history, genealogy, occupation, or personal qualities.
Given Names: Known as forenames, these are often more expressive and chosen based on personal characteristics, wishes, or auspicious meanings.
Variations Across Dialects
The spelling and pronunciation of Chinese names can vary widely deping on dialect:
Mandarin: The primary language in China spoken by the majority.
Cantonese Cantonese: Predominantly used in Hong Kong, Guangdong province, and among overseas Chinese communities like Singapore and Malaysia.
Surnames by Language
Mandarin: Wang 王 Wang, Li 李 Lee or Lei, Zhang 周 Archer, Chen 陈 Chan or Chun, Liu 刘 Low or Lau.
Cantonese: Wong 魏 Wei, Chan 潘 Pan, Leung 林 Lin, Ng 麥 Ma, Tam 臧 Zang.
Hakka: Cheung 秦 Chin, Chong 张 Cheong or Lew.
Hokkien: Low 伍 Wu, Teo 杜 Tu or Cheong 鄒 Zhou.
The Meaning Behind
Each Chinese surname is often rooted in history, leg, royal lineage, or occupational heritage:
Wang 王: The name Wang means king, tracing back to the dynasties like the Tang Dynasty when it rose in popularity.
Li 李: Connected with the Tang dynasty and the invention of the bow and arrow by Hui, the grandson of the Yellow Emperor.
Cultural Significance
Surnames are deeply rooted in culture and family identity. In many Chinese cultures, they can be passed down for generations, symbolizing lineage and heritage.
Accuracy Counts
Journalists must be diligent when reporting names to avoid errors that could misrepresent or disrespect cultural norms:
Use Full Names: Always use the full name if possible rather than nicknames.
Research Spelling Variations: Be aware of dialectal differences in how Chinese surnames are pronounced and spelled.
By following these guidelines, journalists can enhance their reporting on Chinese cultures with accuracy and respect, contributing to more inclusive narratives that honor diverse identities.
Acknowledgment:
was updated in January 2022 to include the meaning behind common Chinese surnames.
References:
Contact Information:
Asia New Zealand Foundation
Eml address
Website
By respecting cultural norms and historical significance when reporting on Chinese names, journalists can foster understanding and promote accurate global representation.
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