Post by habiba123820 on Nov 6, 2024 3:43:02 GMT
While many are busy ordering takeout dim sum or making that big family dinner reservation to celebrate the arrival of the Tiger , the translation community once again finds itself debating a familiar question: should we use Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year? And are there even any differences between the two?
Chinese New Year vs. Lunar New Year - Know the Differences
Simply put, Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year are not the same thing, although they are very closely related. In casual conversation, both terms can be used interchangeably as synonyms. However, in a more rigorous cultural setting, it is necessary to understand the differences between the two.
About Chinese New Year
In Chinese culture, Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year have the same meaning, although the former term is still preferred. This is because Chinese New Year goes beyond the commonly known wordpress web design agency animal zodiac system and incorporates other cultural and religious elements of ancient Chinese culture. For example, Chinese New Year marks not only the change of the zodiac, but also the change of the heavenly stems and earthly branches a unique way of using specific characters to mark a year on the calendar. Chinese New Year also involves specific rituals. Such as giving red envelopes with money to children, setting off fireworks to scare away the Nian hanging Fu posters upside down to attract good luck, and performing dragon and lion dances.
About Lunar New Year
Although Lunar New Year is usually celebrated on the same day as Chinese New Year, it falls on a different day for some countries. For example, many cultures celebrate it on the first new moon instead of the second new moon after the winter solstice. Additionally, although many other Asian countries celebrate Lunar New Year, these countries do not endorse Chinese cultural elements but rather honor each nation's customs and history. Below are how some countries celebrate Lunar New Year differently:
Korea: Individuals wear traditional costumes. Children bow to their elders and receive money for health and wisdom in the coming year. Korean dumplings, rice cakes, and glass noodles are often found on the dinner table.
Vietnam: In addition to dressing in traditional costumes, many families pray at temples for good fortune. Popular dishes include pickled shallots and candied fruit.
Philippines: They wear polka dot clothes during Lunar New Year because the round shape represents prosperity and good luck! For similar reasons, you would also find tons of round fruits on the dinner table.
Controversies surrounding the "Chinese New Year"
Using a culture-specific term for a festival celebrated by multiple cultures is inherently problematic. Whether in a translation scenario or not, you don’t want to come across as insensitive or even ethnocentric. That’s why you should be careful when using the term Chinese New Year. If you’re using it in a general sense, make sure it’s acceptable to everyone in the conversation. Meanwhile, using Lunar New Year can also create uncomfortable feelings, such as when you’re speaking to an actual Chinese person. After all, Lunar New Year isn’t necessarily a politically correct term.
Chinese New Year vs. Lunar New Year - Know the Differences
Simply put, Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year are not the same thing, although they are very closely related. In casual conversation, both terms can be used interchangeably as synonyms. However, in a more rigorous cultural setting, it is necessary to understand the differences between the two.
About Chinese New Year
In Chinese culture, Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year have the same meaning, although the former term is still preferred. This is because Chinese New Year goes beyond the commonly known wordpress web design agency animal zodiac system and incorporates other cultural and religious elements of ancient Chinese culture. For example, Chinese New Year marks not only the change of the zodiac, but also the change of the heavenly stems and earthly branches a unique way of using specific characters to mark a year on the calendar. Chinese New Year also involves specific rituals. Such as giving red envelopes with money to children, setting off fireworks to scare away the Nian hanging Fu posters upside down to attract good luck, and performing dragon and lion dances.
About Lunar New Year
Although Lunar New Year is usually celebrated on the same day as Chinese New Year, it falls on a different day for some countries. For example, many cultures celebrate it on the first new moon instead of the second new moon after the winter solstice. Additionally, although many other Asian countries celebrate Lunar New Year, these countries do not endorse Chinese cultural elements but rather honor each nation's customs and history. Below are how some countries celebrate Lunar New Year differently:
Korea: Individuals wear traditional costumes. Children bow to their elders and receive money for health and wisdom in the coming year. Korean dumplings, rice cakes, and glass noodles are often found on the dinner table.
Vietnam: In addition to dressing in traditional costumes, many families pray at temples for good fortune. Popular dishes include pickled shallots and candied fruit.
Philippines: They wear polka dot clothes during Lunar New Year because the round shape represents prosperity and good luck! For similar reasons, you would also find tons of round fruits on the dinner table.
Controversies surrounding the "Chinese New Year"
Using a culture-specific term for a festival celebrated by multiple cultures is inherently problematic. Whether in a translation scenario or not, you don’t want to come across as insensitive or even ethnocentric. That’s why you should be careful when using the term Chinese New Year. If you’re using it in a general sense, make sure it’s acceptable to everyone in the conversation. Meanwhile, using Lunar New Year can also create uncomfortable feelings, such as when you’re speaking to an actual Chinese person. After all, Lunar New Year isn’t necessarily a politically correct term.