In Chinese culture, particularly among men of older generations, smoking has historically been a powerful social tool. Offering someone a cigarette is a common gesture of goodwill, respect, or a way to break the ice and build `关系 (guānxi)`. In business or social settings, sharing cigarettes can be a ritual that fosters a sense of camaraderie. This creates a cultural tension that differs from the modern West, where smoking is heavily stigmatized and largely seen as a purely personal (and negative) habit. While in the West, refusing a cigarette is normal, in some traditional Chinese contexts, it could be perceived as slightly standoffish. Therefore, having a `烟瘾 (yānyǐn)` is not just a personal health issue; it's intertwined with social expectations and identity. Public health campaigns against smoking in China are on the rise, and the term `烟瘾` is central to this shifting cultural landscape, pitting modern health consciousness against deep-rooted social traditions.
`烟瘾` is a common term used across all levels of formality, but it always carries a negative connotation. It's something to be overcome, not celebrated.