zhìcí: 致辞 - To give a speech, address, or make remarks

Keywords: zhici, zhìcí, 致辞, Chinese speech, make an address in Chinese, give remarks, formal address, opening speech, closing remarks, wedding toast in Chinese, company speech, 发表演说, 发言.

Summary: “致辞” (zhìcí) refers to a formal speech or address delivered at a specific event or ceremony, such as a wedding, conference, or graduation. Unlike a general lecture, a “致辞” is ceremonial and serves to open or close an event, express gratitude, or offer congratulations. Understanding “致辞” is key to grasping the importance of formality, respect, and occasion-setting in Chinese culture.

Pinyin (with tone marks): zhì cí

Part of Speech: Verb, Noun

HSK Level: HSK 5

Concise Definition: To deliver a formal address or speech; the address or speech itself.

In a Nutshell: Think of “致辞” not as a lecture or a long talk, but as the official, ceremonial remarks that mark a special occasion. It's the short, formal speech given by a person of honor—like a CEO at a company dinner, a father at a wedding, or a diplomat at a banquet—to set the tone, welcome guests, or express official sentiments. The focus is on formality and propriety more than on sharing detailed information.

致 (zhì): This character means “to send,” “to deliver,” or “to express.” It implies conveying a message or sentiment from one person to another with a specific purpose.

辞 (cí): This character means “words,” “speech,” or “expression.” It's a component in many words related to language, like `词语 (cíyǔ)` (words and expressions).

Combined Meaning: Together, 致辞 (zhìcí) literally means “to deliver words” or “to express with speech.” This perfectly captures the essence of delivering a prepared, formal address to an audience.

In Chinese culture, formal events and ceremonies (仪式, yíshì) are profoundly important, and the 致辞 is an indispensable part of them. It is the mechanism by which an event is officially opened, a welcome is extended, or gratitude is formally expressed. The act of delivering a 致辞 is a performance of respect and an acknowledgment of the occasion's importance.

Comparison to Western Culture: A 致辞 is similar to “making a few remarks” or “giving a toast” in the West, but it carries a much higher degree of formality and is rarely spontaneous. While a Western manager might give a casual, off-the-cuff speech at a holiday party, a Chinese leader's 致辞 at an annual dinner is expected to be well-structured, respectful, and often read from a script. It reflects on the speaker's status and gives “face” (面子, miànzi) to both the host and the guests by showing the event is taken seriously. It's less about personal charisma and more about fulfilling a formal role correctly.

“致辞” is used almost exclusively in formal settings. You will encounter it frequently in business, academic, and celebratory contexts.

The most common mistake for learners is confusing 致辞 (zhìcí) with 演讲 (yǎnjiǎng) and 发言 (fāyán). They are not interchangeable.

演讲 (yǎnjiǎng) - A public speech or lecture, focused on content delivery rather than ceremony.

发言 (fāyán) - To speak up or make a statement, typically in a meeting or discussion.

开幕词 (kāimùcí) - Opening remarks; a specific type of 致辞.

闭幕词 (bìmùcí) - Closing remarks; a specific type of 致辞.

祝酒词 (zhùjiǔcí) - A toast (literally “wish-wine-words”), a speech given before drinking.

贺词 (hècí) - A congratulatory message or speech.

讲话 (jiǎnghuà) - A speech, often by a leader or official, which can be more lengthy and instructional than a 致辞.

主持人 (zhǔchírén) - The MC, host, or chairperson of an event who often introduces the person giving the 致辞.

仪式 (yíshì) - A ceremony, the typical context where a 致辞 takes place.

正式 (zhèngshì) - Formal, official; the defining characteristic of a 致辞.