过年

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"过年" literally means "to pass the year" and is commonly used to refer to celebrating the Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year. It implies the customs and festivities associated with welcoming the new year.

Cultural Context

In Chinese culture, "过年" involves family reunions, traditional decorations like spring couplets (), fireworks, and special meals. It is a major holiday period when many people travel home.

Common Collocations

  • 过年 (go home for the New Year): emphasizes family reunion.
  • 过年鞭炮 (set off firecrackers during New Year): a traditional custom to ward off evil spirits.
  • 过年年夜饭 (eat New Year's Eve dinner): a key family gathering event.

Usage Notes

"过年" is often used as a verb phrase describing the act of celebrating the New Year. It can also imply the entire holiday period. Avoid confusing it with just "" (year) or "新年" (New Year), as "过年" specifically highlights the celebration aspect.

Summary

Use "过年" when talking about the Chinese New Year celebrations, family traditions, and holiday activities. It is a culturally rich term that conveys more than just the passage of time—it reflects important social and familial customs.

Example Sentences

Our family goes back to our hometown to celebrate the New Year every year.

During the New Year, everyone puts up spring couplets and sets off

This year for the New Year, we plan to travel and not go back home.