Table of Contents

wǔrǔ: 侮辱 - To Insult, To Humiliate

Quick Summary

Core Meaning

Character Breakdown

Cultural Context and Significance

The concept of 侮辱 (wǔrǔ) is deeply connected to the Chinese cultural cornerstone of 面子 (miànzi), or “face,” which represents a person's social standing, reputation, and dignity. An 侮辱 is a direct and severe attack on someone's `miànzi`. To 侮辱 someone is to make them “lose face” in a very public and shameful way. In Western cultures, particularly American culture, an “insult” can sometimes be casual, ironic, or even a form of bonding (“roasting” a friend). It's often seen as an individual-to-individual offense. In China, however, an 侮辱 is rarely, if ever, taken lightly. It's a serious disruption of social harmony and can be perceived as an attack not just on the individual, but also on their family, their company, or even their country. This is because Chinese culture often emphasizes collectivism and the importance of maintaining respectful, harmonious relationships within a social hierarchy. Accusing someone of 侮辱 is a grave matter.

Practical Usage in Modern China

侮辱 (wǔrǔ) is used in situations where a serious offense to one's dignity has occurred.

Example Sentences

Nuances and Common Mistakes