奴才
How to Say
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How to Write
Meaning: servant
How to Understand
奴才
奴才 (nú cái) is a term historically used to refer to a servant or subordinate, typically in a feudal or hierarchical context. It conveys a sense of inferiority and obedience, often used by someone of higher status to address a lower-status individual.
The character 奴 (nú) means 'servant' or 'slave,' while 才 (cái) originally meant 'person' or 'individual.' Together, they form a term that emphasizes the relationship of subordination and servitude.
Though it is rarely used in modern Chinese, it appears in historical texts, literature, and period dramas. It carries a formal or archaic tone and is not commonly used in everyday conversation today. Understanding its meaning helps grasp historical social structures and language evolution.
Example Sentences
他跪在地上，喊道：‘奴才不敢！’
He knelt on the ground and said, 'Your servant dares not!'
在古代小说中，官员常称自己为‘奴才’以示谦卑。
In ancient novels, officials often referred to themselves as 'servant' to show humility.