作家 — meaning in English: writer

zuòjiā · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for writer

指挥官

zhǐhuī guān

睡眠

shuìmián

政策

zhèngcè

作家

zuòjiā

鸡

jī

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 作家 (zuòjiā) in literary discussions, when recommending books, or when engaging in conversations about famous authors. For instance, at a book club, someone might say, 'I really admire that 作家 for their unique perspective on contemporary issues.'

Synonyms & nuances

While 作家 (zuòjiā) specifically refers to a writer, often one of literary merit, the word 作者 (zuòzhě) means 'author,' which can apply more broadly to anyone who creates written content. You would choose 作家 (zuòjiā) when emphasizing the artistic aspect of writing.

Culture

The term 作家 (zuòjiā) combines the character 作 (zuò), meaning 'to make' or 'to create,' with 家 (jiā), which denotes a person who specializes in a certain field. This reflects the deep-seated value placed on literary creation in Chinese culture, where writers are often seen as cultural guardians. Interestingly, the rise of modern Chinese literature in the early 20th century saw the term become more widely recognized, as authors sought to express new ideas and social critiques.

FAQ

Q.What does 作家 mean in English?

作家 translates to 'writer' in English, referring to someone who creates written works, particularly those with artistic or literary merit.

Q.How do you use 作家 in a sentence?

You can use 作家 in a sentence like this: '她是一位著名的作家,' which means 'She is a famous writer.' This shows respect for the individual's work and contributes to a neutral tone.

Q.Is there a difference between 作家 and 作者?

Yes, while both terms refer to someone who writes, 作家 (zuòjiā) emphasizes a literary or artistic creation, while 作者 (zuòzhě) is more general and can apply to anyone who authors any type of written work.

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Chinese (Mandarin) 2000