外长
How to Understand
外长 is the Chinese term for 'foreign minister,' referring to a government official responsible for managing a country's diplomatic relations with other nations. It specifically denotes the head of the foreign affairs department, often equivalent to the position of 'foreign minister' in English-speaking countries.
The character 外 (wài) means 'external' or 'foreign,' while 长 (cháng) means 'head' or 'leader.' Together, they form a compound noun that literally translates to 'foreign leader,' emphasizing the role's focus on international relations and diplomacy.
外长 is commonly used in political contexts, especially when discussing international meetings, treaties, or diplomatic negotiations. In China, the title is held by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and it plays a crucial role in representing the nation on the global stage. Understanding this term is essential for following news about international politics and foreign policy.