Alcohol holds a complex and central role in Chinese society. It is a vital tool for social bonding, building relationships (guānxi), and sealing business deals. This social drinking, known as 应酬 (yìngchou), is often seen as a necessary skill. However, there is a sharp distinction between a capable social drinker and a 酒鬼 (jiǔguǐ). Chinese culture, influenced by Confucian values of moderation, self-control, and maintaining social face (miànzi), strongly condemns a lack of discipline. Being labeled a 酒鬼 signifies a complete loss of this control. It suggests the person cannot fulfill their social and familial duties, bringing shame not only upon themselves but also their family. Compared to the English term “alcoholic,” 酒鬼 is less clinical and more judgmental. “Alcoholic” can be used in a medical context (e.g., “He is a recovering alcoholic”), which frames it as a disease. 酒鬼, with its “ghost” imagery, is a folk term that frames the issue as a deep character flaw or a moral failing. It's more akin to calling someone a “boozehound” or “drunkard,” but with a deeper cultural weight attached to the loss of face and control.
酒鬼 (jiǔguǐ) is primarily used as a derogatory label. Its connotation is almost always negative.