Learn Mandarin Chinese Culture 3

Question 1

What is the traditional Chinese philosophy of 阴阳 (yīn yáng) based on?

Accepted Answer

The balance of opposing but complementary forces

Answer

Yīn yáng (阴阳) represents the Chinese philosophical concept of dualism — opposing yet complementary forces that exist in harmony throughout the universe.

Question 2

Which Chinese festival involves dragon boat racing (赛龙舟, sài lóngzhōu)?

Accepted Answer

Dragon Boat Festival

Answer

Dragon boat racing is the central activity of the Dragon Boat Festival (端午节, Duānwǔ Jié), held on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month.

Question 3

In Chinese culture, what does it mean to 'lose face' (丢脸, diū liǎn)?

Accepted Answer

To be publicly embarrassed or humiliated

Answer

Diū liǎn (丢脸) means to suffer public humiliation or embarrassment, which damages one's social reputation in Chinese society.

Question 4

What is the name of the traditional Chinese string instrument with two strings played with a bow?

Accepted Answer

Erhu

Answer

The erhu (二胡) is a two-stringed bowed instrument, often called the 'Chinese violin,' central to Chinese traditional music.

Question 5

What is the significance of odd numbers at Chinese funerals versus even numbers at weddings?

Accepted Answer

Odd numbers relate to death, even numbers to happiness

Answer

In Chinese culture, odd numbers are associated with death and funerals, while even numbers represent happiness and are preferred at celebrations like weddings.

Learn Mandarin Chinese Practice Test

Learn Mandarin Chinese Practice Test

Learn Mandarin Chinese Culture 3