家庭主妇
家庭主妇 en 30 segundos
- 家庭主妇 (jiātíng zhǔfù) is the Chinese word for 'housewife', referring to a woman whose main focus is managing her household.
- The word is composed of characters meaning 'family' (家庭) and 'master woman' (主妇), highlighting her central role in the home.
- It is a neutral term used in daily life, media, and official documents to describe a woman's occupation or social status.
- Modern alternatives like '全职妈妈' (full-time mom) are also common, but '家庭主妇' remains the standard formal term for the role.
The term 家庭主妇 (jiātíng zhǔfù) is a compound noun used to describe a woman whose primary responsibility is managing her own household and caring for her family members rather than being employed outside the home. To understand this word deeply, we must look at its component parts: 家庭 (jiātíng) meaning 'family' or 'household', and 主妇 (zhǔfù), where 主 (zhǔ) means 'master' or 'host' and 妇 (fù) means 'woman' or 'wife'. Together, it literally translates to the 'master woman of the household'.
- Social Context
- In modern Chinese society, the term is used both as a neutral descriptor of a person's occupation and as a subject of sociological discussion regarding gender roles. While traditionally a standard expectation for married women, the role of a 家庭主妇 is now often viewed as a personal or family choice in urban centers.
王太太决定辞职,做一个全职的家庭主妇。 (Mrs. Wang decided to resign and become a full-time housewife.)
The term is most frequently heard in daily conversations when discussing family structures, career changes, or social demographics. It is common in census surveys, school forms where parents' occupations are listed, and in media portrayals of domestic life. In recent years, the term has faced competition from '全职妈妈' (quánzhí māmā - full-time mom), which places more emphasis on the parenting aspect rather than just the domestic management aspect.
很多家庭主妇在空闲时间学习新的技能。 (Many housewives learn new skills in their spare time.)
- Usage in Media
- Television dramas often depict the '家庭主妇' as the emotional anchor of the family, dealing with the intricacies of intergenerational relationships and household budgeting.
Historically, the role of the 家庭主妇 was tied to the concept of '男主外,女主内' (nán zhǔ wài, nǚ zhǔ nèi), meaning 'men lead the outside (work), women lead the inside (home)'. While this traditional division of labor is changing, the term still evokes a sense of dedication to the domestic sphere. It is important to note that the term is gender-specific; a man in a similar role would be called a '家庭主夫' (jiātíng zhǔfū).
她并不觉得当家庭主妇是一件辛苦的事。 (She doesn't feel that being a housewife is a hard thing.)
作为一名家庭主妇,她把家里打理得井井有条。 (As a housewife, she keeps the home in perfect order.)
In summary, 家庭主妇 is a foundational term for understanding family dynamics in China. It encompasses a wide range of responsibilities from cooking and cleaning to financial management and child-rearing. When using this term, one should be aware of the shift towards more diverse family structures where this role is increasingly seen as a significant economic and social contribution, even if it is unpaid labor.
Using 家庭主妇 correctly involves understanding its placement in various sentence structures. As a noun, it typically functions as the object of a sentence or as a predicate noun following the verb '是' (shì - to be). Because it refers to a person's identity or occupation, it is often preceded by measure words and adjectives that describe the nature of their work or their feelings about it.
- Basic Identification
- The most common structure is 'Subject + 是 + (Measure Word) + 家庭主妇'. Example: '她是一名家庭主妇' (She is a housewife).
我的邻居是一位非常勤劳的家庭主妇。 (My neighbor is a very hardworking housewife.)
When discussing the transition into this role, verbs like '当' (dāng - to serve as/to be) or '做' (zuò - to do/to be) are used. For example, '她决定回家当家庭主妇' (She decided to go home and be a housewife). This implies a choice or a functional shift in her life path. It is also common to see it modified by '全职' (quánzhí - full-time) to emphasize that the person has no other professional engagements.
虽然她是家庭主妇,但她的生活非常充实。 (Although she is a housewife, her life is very fulfilling.)
In more complex sentences, '家庭主妇' can be the subject performing an action or the focus of a social discussion. For instance: '家庭主妇的工作量往往被低估了' (The workload of a housewife is often underestimated). Here, the term is used to represent a demographic group in a broad social context. You might also find it in comparative structures, such as comparing the lifestyle of a career woman (职业女性 - zhíyè nǚxìng) with that of a housewife.
- Common Modifiers
- Common adjectives paired with this word include: 勤劳 (qínláo - hardworking), 贤惠 (xiánhuì - virtuous), 忙碌 (mánglù - busy), and 快乐 (kuàilè - happy).
在这个社区里,有很多年轻的家庭主妇。 (There are many young housewives in this community.)
她并不后悔选择成为一名家庭主妇。 (She does not regret choosing to become a housewife.)
Finally, when asking about someone's occupation, if they are a housewife, the response is usually direct. A: '你做什么工作?' (What work do you do?) B: '我是家庭主妇。' (I am a housewife). This usage is neutral and informative. It covers the full spectrum of domestic life, from mundane chores to the high-level management of a family's future and well-being.
The term 家庭主妇 is ubiquitous in Chinese-speaking environments, appearing in contexts ranging from the highly formal to the very casual. If you are living in China or watching Chinese media, you will encounter this word in several specific scenarios. Understanding these contexts will help you grasp the nuance and frequency of the word.
- Television and Film
- Chinese 'family dramas' (家庭剧 - jiātíng jù) are a major source of this term. Characters are often defined by their roles as housewives, and the plots frequently revolve around their challenges, such as managing a budget or dealing with mother-in-law issues.
这部电视剧讲述了一个家庭主妇重返职场的故事。 (This TV series tells the story of a housewife returning to the workplace.)
In supermarkets and markets (菜市场 - cài shìchǎng), you might hear vendors addressing women who seem to be doing their daily shopping as '主妇' or referring to them as '家庭主妇' in a general sense. While they might use more direct addresses like '大姐' (dàjiě - big sister) or '阿姨' (āyí - auntie), the concept of the 家庭主妇 as the primary consumer for household goods is central to marketing and sales talk.
调查显示,家庭主妇是超市的主要客户群。 (Surveys show that housewives are the main customer group for supermarkets.)
Online platforms like Little Red Book (小红书) or Weibo are modern hubs where the term is used extensively. Influencers who focus on home organization, cooking, or child-rearing often self-identify as '家庭主妇' or '全职主妇'. Here, the word takes on a more modern, lifestyle-oriented meaning, often associated with aesthetics and 'life hacks'.
- Official and Legal Forms
- When filling out registration forms for schools, hospitals, or government services, '家庭主妇' is a standard option for '职业' (occupation).
在职业一栏,她填写了“家庭主妇”。 (In the occupation column, she filled in "housewife".)
很多家庭主妇都非常擅长理财。 (Many housewives are very good at financial management.)
Lastly, in social gatherings, when people introduce themselves or their spouses, the term is used to clarify one's daily routine and responsibilities. It provides a quick understanding of a person's schedule and availability. For example, '我太太现在是家庭主妇,所以她有时间接孩子。' (My wife is currently a housewife, so she has time to pick up the kids.)
While 家庭主妇 is a relatively straightforward term, learners of Chinese often make several common errors regarding its gender, formality, and character usage. Understanding these pitfalls will help you communicate more accurately and naturally.
- Gender Confusion
- The most common mistake is using '家庭主妇' to refer to a stay-at-home father. The character '妇' (fù) specifically refers to a woman. For a man, you must use '家庭主夫' (jiātíng zhǔfū), where '夫' (fū) means husband or man.
错误:他是一个家庭主妇。 (Incorrect: He is a housewife.)
正确:他是一个家庭主夫。 (Correct: He is a househusband.)
Another frequent error is confusing '家庭主妇' with '家政人员' (jiāzhèng rényuán). A '家庭主妇' is a member of the family (usually the wife/mother) who manages the home. In contrast, '家政人员' or '保姆' (bǎomǔ) refers to a paid domestic worker or nanny. Using the wrong term can lead to significant social awkwardness or misunderstanding about a person's relationship to the household.
她不是保姆,她是这个家的家庭主妇。 (She is not a nanny; she is the housewife of this family.)
Learners also sometimes omit the '家庭' (jiātíng) part and just say '主妇'. While '主妇' is understandable, it is less common in modern conversation and can sound a bit literary or old-fashioned. '家庭主妇' is the standard, complete term. Additionally, some students use '太太' (tàitai) as a direct synonym. While a '家庭主妇' is a '太太' (wife/mrs.), not every '太太' is a '家庭主妇' (she might have a career).
- Measure Word Errors
- Using '只' (zhī) or other inappropriate measure words. Use '个' (gè) for casual contexts, '名' (míng) for professional/formal contexts, and '位' (wèi) for respectful contexts.
这位家庭主妇分享了她的烹饪心得。 (This housewife shared her cooking tips.)
不要小看家庭主妇的能力。 (Do not underestimate the abilities of a housewife.)
Finally, be careful with the tone. In some academic or feminist contexts in China, '家庭主妇' might be discussed in terms of 'unpaid labor' (无偿劳动 - wúcháng láodòng). If you are in a formal debate, using the term without recognizing the 'work' aspect might seem dismissive. Always ensure the context conveys the respect that the role deserves.
In Chinese, there are several words that are related to 家庭主妇, but they carry different shades of meaning, levels of formality, or social connotations. Knowing when to use which term will make your Chinese sound more nuanced and sophisticated.
- 全职妈妈 (Quánzhí māmā)
- Literally 'full-time mother'. This is the most popular modern alternative. It emphasizes the role of parenting and child-rearing over general housework. It is often perceived as a more 'modern' and 'active' choice.
- 全职太太 (Quánzhí tàitai)
- Literally 'full-time wife'. This term often carries a connotation of a higher social or economic status. It suggests that the family is wealthy enough for the wife not to work, focusing on social engagements and high-level home management.
她更喜欢被称为“全职妈妈”而不是“家庭主妇”。 (She prefers to be called a 'full-time mom' rather than a 'housewife'.)
There is also the term 内助 (nèizhù), which is a more formal and literary way to refer to a wife who supports her husband from home. You might see the phrase '贤内助' (xián nèizhù - virtuous inner helper) used to praise a wife's management of the home. This is much more formal and often used in speeches or written tributes.
他在外面打拼,全靠家里的贤内助。 (He works hard outside, all thanks to the virtuous helper at home.)
In a sociological or economic context, you might encounter 无职女性 (wúzhí nǚxìng), which simply means 'unemployed woman' or 'woman without a profession'. This is a very clinical, neutral term used in statistics. It lacks the domestic and familial warmth associated with '家庭主妇'.
- Househusband: 家庭主夫 (Jiātíng zhǔfū)
- The direct male equivalent. While still less common in China than the female version, the term is gaining recognition as social norms evolve.
随着观念的改变,家庭主夫也越来越多。 (With changing concepts, there are more and more househusbands.)
她做了一辈子的家庭主妇。 (She has been a housewife all her life.)
Lastly, for very old-fashioned or historical contexts, you might see 内子 (nèizǐ) or 贱内 (jiànnèi). These are extremely humble and dated ways for a man to refer to his wife. You should not use these in modern conversation unless you are joking or writing a historical novel, but knowing them helps you understand the linguistic evolution from 'inner person' to 'manager of the home'.
How Formal Is It?
Dato curioso
The character '妇' (fù) in its ancient oracle bone script form depicted a woman holding a broom, clearly linking the identity to domestic labor from the very beginning of the written language.
Guía de pronunciación
- Pronouncing 'fù' with a 1st or 2nd tone, which can change the meaning.
- Mumbling the 'zhǔ' (3rd tone), making it sound like 'zhū' (pig).
- Confusing the 'tíng' (2nd tone) with 'tǐng' (3rd tone).
- Applying English stress patterns to Chinese syllables.
- Not clearly distinguishing between 'jiā' and 'jià'.
Nivel de dificultad
The characters are common and taught early in HSK/CEFR levels.
The character '妇' and '庭' require some practice to write correctly.
Tones are distinct (1, 2, 3, 4), making it a good practice word.
Clearly pronounced in most contexts, easy to recognize.
Qué aprender después
Requisitos previos
Aprende después
Avanzado
Gramática que debes saber
Measure words for people
一位 (wèi) for respect, 名 (míng) for occupation.
The verb '当' (dāng) for roles
她想当家庭主妇。
Adjectives with '的' (de)
勤劳的家庭主妇。
Negative '不是' (bú shì)
她不是家庭主妇。
Questions with '吗' (ma)
你是家庭主妇吗?
Ejemplos por nivel
她是一个家庭主妇。
She is a housewife.
Basic 'Subject + 是 + Noun' structure.
我妈妈是家庭主妇。
My mother is a housewife.
Possessive '我的' (wǒ de) often drops '的' with family.
她是家庭主妇吗?
Is she a housewife?
Using '吗' (ma) for a yes/no question.
她不是老师,她是家庭主妇。
She is not a teacher; she is a housewife.
Negative '不是' (bú shì).
很多女人是家庭主妇。
Many women are housewives.
Using '很多' (hěn duō) as a modifier.
那个家庭主妇很漂亮。
That housewife is very beautiful.
Measure word '个' (gè) for people.
她是好家庭主妇。
She is a good housewife.
Adjective '好' (hǎo) before the noun.
你是家庭主妇吗?
Are you a housewife?
Direct address in a question.
当家庭主妇很忙。
Being a housewife is very busy.
Using '当' (dāng) to mean 'to be/act as'.
她是一名勤劳的家庭主妇。
She is a hardworking housewife.
Formal measure word '名' (míng).
家庭主妇每天都要做饭。
Housewives have to cook every day.
'都要' (dōu yào) expresses necessity.
我想当一名家庭主妇。
I want to be a housewife.
'想' (xiǎng) + '当' (dāng) for aspirations.
这位家庭主妇很会买东西。
This housewife is good at shopping.
Respectful measure word '位' (wèi).
她以前是老师,现在是家庭主妇。
She was a teacher before, now she is a housewife.
'以前...现在...' structure.
家庭主妇的工作不简单。
A housewife's work is not simple.
Possessive '的' (de) for the work.
她喜欢做家庭主妇。
She likes being a housewife.
'喜欢' (xǐhuān) + '做' (zuò) for preference.
为了照顾生病的孩子,她成了一名家庭主妇。
In order to take care of her sick child, she became a housewife.
Using '为了' (wèile) to indicate purpose.
虽然她是家庭主妇,但她很有才华。
Although she is a housewife, she is very talented.
'虽然...但是...' contrast structure.
现在的家庭主妇和以前不一样了。
Today's housewives are different from before.
'A 和 B 不一样' comparison.
很多家庭主妇利用业余时间学习。
Many housewives use their spare time to study.
'利用' (lìyòng) meaning to utilize.
她决定辞职回家做全职家庭主妇。
She decided to resign and go home to be a full-time housewife.
'决定' (juédìng) for making a decision.
家庭主妇也需要社交生活。
Housewives also need a social life.
'也需要' (yě xūyào) for inclusive needs.
作为家庭主妇,她非常擅长理财。
As a housewife, she is very good at managing finances.
'作为' (zuòwéi) meaning 'as/in the role of'.
这个社区为家庭主妇提供了很多课程。
This community provides many courses for housewives.
'为...提供' (wèi... tígōng) meaning 'to provide for'.
社会应该尊重家庭主妇的劳动价值。
Society should respect the labor value of housewives.
Using '应该' (yīnggāi) for moral obligation.
她并不觉得家庭主妇这个身份限制了她。
She doesn't feel that the identity of a housewife limits her.
'身份' (shēnfèn) meaning identity.
家庭主妇往往承担了大部分的家务劳动。
Housewives often take on the majority of household labor.
'往往' (wǎngwǎng) for frequent occurrences.
有些家庭主妇通过网络平台分享生活经验。
Some housewives share life experiences through online platforms.
'通过' (tōngguò) indicating the means.
长期做家庭主妇可能会与社会脱节。
Being a housewife for a long time might lead to being out of touch with society.
'与...脱节' (yǔ... tuōjié) meaning out of sync.
她平衡了家庭主妇和自我提升之间的关系。
She balanced the relationship between being a housewife and self-improvement.
'平衡...之间的关系' structure.
家庭主妇的心理健康同样值得关注。
The mental health of housewives is also worth attention.
'值得关注' (zhídé guānzhù) meaning 'worth noting'.
她选择做家庭主妇是基于家庭的整体利益。
Her choice to be a housewife was based on the overall interests of the family.
'基于' (jīyú) meaning 'based on'.
在现代语境下,“家庭主妇”这个词被赋予了新的含义。
In the modern context, the term 'housewife' has been given new meanings.
Passive '被' (bèi) with '赋予' (fùyǔ).
家庭主妇在家庭经济学中扮演着至关重要的角色。
Housewives play a crucial role in household economics.
'扮演...的角色' (bànyǎn... de juésè) idiom.
对家庭主妇的刻板印象正在逐渐消失。
Stereotypes about housewives are gradually disappearing.
'刻板印象' (kèbǎn yìnxiàng) meaning stereotype.
许多受过高等教育的女性选择回归家庭,成为家庭主妇。
Many highly educated women choose to return to the family and become housewives.
'回归' (huíguī) meaning to return to.
家庭主妇的无偿劳动是社会运行的重要支撑。
The unpaid labor of housewives is an important support for the functioning of society.
'无偿劳动' (wúcháng láodòng) technical term.
政府正在探讨如何为家庭主妇提供更好的社会保障。
The government is exploring how to provide better social security for housewives.
'探讨' (tàntǎo) meaning to explore/discuss.
她通过博客重新定义了当代家庭主妇的形象。
She redefined the image of a contemporary housewife through her blog.
'重新定义' (chóngxīn dìngyì) meaning to redefine.
家庭主妇的身份认同往往与其家庭地位紧密相连。
A housewife's identity is often closely linked to her status within the family.
'紧密相连' (jǐnmì xiānglián) meaning closely linked.
这种对家庭主妇的传统界定已难以涵盖当今多元的家庭模式。
This traditional definition of a housewife can no longer cover today's diverse family patterns.
Formal '界定' (jièdìng) and '涵盖' (hángài).
文学作品中对家庭主妇的刻画往往折射出时代的变迁。
The portrayal of housewives in literary works often reflects the changes of the times.
'刻画' (kèhuà) and '折射' (zhéshè) literary terms.
家庭主妇的法律权益在《民法典》中得到了进一步的明确。
The legal rights and interests of housewives have been further clarified in the Civil Code.
Specific reference to '民法典' (Civil Code).
关于家庭主妇是否应获得“家务工资”的辩论从未平息。
The debate over whether housewives should receive 'housework wages' has never subsided.
'平息' (píngxī) meaning to subside.
她以一种近乎艺术的方式经营着家庭主妇的生活。
She manages her life as a housewife in a way that is almost artistic.
'近乎' (jìnhū) meaning nearly/approaching.
家庭主妇的社会评价在某种程度上反映了社会文明的进步。
The social evaluation of housewives reflects the progress of social civilization to some extent.
'反映' (fǎnyìng) meaning to reflect.
我们需要从女性主义的角度重新审视家庭主妇的处境。
We need to re-examine the situation of housewives from a feminist perspective.
'重新审视' (chóngxīn shěnshì) formal term.
家庭主妇的贡献虽不可量化,却对家庭幸福至关重要。
Although a housewife's contribution cannot be quantified, it is crucial to family happiness.
'虽...却...' contrast with '不可量化' (unquantifiable).
Sinónimos
Antónimos
Colocaciones comunes
Frases Comunes
— A woman whose sole occupation is managing her home.
她是一名全职家庭主妇。
— Desperate Housewives (referring to the TV show or a similar state).
她有时觉得自己像个绝望的主妇。
— A modern term treating housework as a professional career.
她把家庭主妇当成一种职业。
— An experienced housewife who knows all the tricks.
作为资深家庭主妇,她很会省钱。
— A housewife who uses modern technology and has modern views.
现代家庭主妇也很独立。
— An ordinary housewife.
她只是一个平凡的家庭主妇。
— An all-powerful housewife who can do everything.
她是个全能家庭主妇,什么都会修。
— A happy housewife.
她想做一个快乐的家庭主妇。
— A club or group for housewives.
她参加了社区的家庭主妇俱乐部。
— The daily routine of a housewife.
她在网上分享家庭主妇的日常。
Se confunde a menudo con
This refers to paid domestic workers, not family members.
A nanny or maid; '家庭主妇' is the wife/mother of the family.
A general term for 'women' (often married), not a specific role.
Modismos y expresiones
— To assist one's husband and educate one's children (traditional role).
她过着相夫教子的生活。
Formal— To manage the household with industry and thrift.
她是一个勤俭持家的家庭主妇。
Commendatory— Virtuous and kind (often used to describe a perfect housewife).
她具备了贤良淑德的所有品质。
Formal— Beautiful on the outside and intelligent on the inside.
这位家庭主妇真是秀外慧中。
Literary— Staying at home and not going out (traditional/dated).
现代家庭主妇不再是大门不出,二门不迈了。
Dated— The three obediences and four virtues (historical/patriarchal).
旧社会的家庭主妇深受三从四德的束缚。
Historical— In perfect order (used to describe her home management).
她把家里打理得井井有条。
Neutral— To bear responsibility and blame without complaint.
作为家庭主妇,她总是任劳任怨。
Commendatory— Careful calculation and strict budgeting.
家庭主妇必须学会精打细算。
Neutral— If the family is harmonious, everything will prosper.
家庭主妇是家和万事兴的关键。
ProverbialFácil de confundir
Sounds almost identical.
The last character '夫' means husband/male, while '妇' means wife/female.
他决定辞职当家庭主夫。
It's the shortened version.
'家庭主妇' is the full, standard term; '主妇' is more casual or used in titles.
主妇之友是一本杂志。
Both refer to married women.
'太太' means 'Mrs.' or 'wife'; '家庭主妇' specifically refers to her occupation at home.
王太太是一名家庭主妇。
Most housewives are mothers.
'妈妈' is a relationship; '家庭主妇' is a role/occupation.
我的妈妈是家庭主妇。
Similar meaning.
'内助' is literary/formal; '家庭主妇' is everyday language.
她是他事业上的贤内助。
Patrones de oraciones
S + 是 + 家庭主妇
她是家庭主妇。
S + 是 + 一名 + Adj + 的 + 家庭主妇
她是一名忙碌的家庭主妇。
为了...,S + 决定 + 当 + 家庭主妇
为了孩子,她决定当家庭主妇。
虽然...,但是 S + 是 + 家庭主妇
虽然她很有钱,但是她是家庭主妇。
作为...,S + 应该...
作为家庭主妇,她应该得到尊重。
S + 被称为 + ...的家庭主妇
她被称为新时代的家庭主妇。
对于...而言,家庭主妇的身份...
对于她而言,家庭主妇的身份是一种自我实现。
与其说...,不如说她是家庭主妇
与其说她是保姆,不如说她是家庭主妇。
Familia de palabras
Sustantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Relacionado
Cómo usarlo
Highly common in both spoken and written Chinese.
-
Using '家庭主妇' for a man.
→
家庭主夫
The '妇' character is gender-specific to females.
-
Saying '我是家政' when you mean housewife.
→
我是家庭主妇
'家政' refers to the domestic service industry/professionals.
-
Writing '付' instead of '妇'.
→
妇
'付' means to pay; '妇' means woman/wife.
-
Using '只' as a measure word.
→
位 / 名 / 个
'只' is for animals or certain objects, not for people in this role.
-
Confusing '主妇' with '主人'.
→
主妇
'主人' means master/owner in a general sense; '主妇' is specific to the lady of the house.
Consejos
Use the right measure word
Always use '位' (wèi) when you want to be polite about someone's mother or wife being a housewife.
Learn the male version
Knowing '家庭主夫' (househusband) helps you understand the gendered nature of Chinese nouns.
Context matters
In urban China, '全职妈妈' is often preferred by younger people as it feels more empowering.
Radical power
The '女' (woman) radical is a huge clue for words related to female roles.
Tone clarity
The 3rd tone on '主' and 4th tone on '妇' are crucial for being understood.
Word chunks
Listen for the four-character block 'jiātíng zhǔfù' as a single unit of meaning.
The Broom Lady
Remember the '妇' character looks like a woman with a tool to help you associate it with housework.
Respect the role
When translating, avoid terms that sound like 'unemployed' as it can be culturally insensitive.
Watch Dramas
Family dramas are the best place to hear this word used in natural, emotional contexts.
Internet Slang
Look up '辣妈' (làmā - hot mom) for a modern, slangy contrast to the traditional housewife image.
Memorízalo
Mnemotecnia
Think of 'Jia' (Home) as the place where the 'Ting' (Hall) is. The 'Zhu' (Master) is the 'Fu' (Woman). The Master Woman of the Home Hall.
Asociación visual
Imagine a woman standing in a beautiful courtyard (庭) of a house (家), holding a set of keys (主 - master) and wearing an apron (妇 - woman/wife).
Word Web
Desafío
Try to describe five things a '家庭主妇' does in Chinese without using English.
Origen de la palabra
The term comes from the combination of '家庭' (household) and '主妇' (master woman). '家庭' dates back to ancient texts referring to the physical and social unit of the home. '主妇' appears in early classical Chinese to designate the woman in charge of the domestic sphere.
Significado original: The female master or manager of the household rituals and daily affairs.
Sino-Tibetan (Chinese)Contexto cultural
Be careful not to assume every woman at home is a '家庭主妇' (she might be working remotely) or that the role is 'easy'.
In English, 'housewife' can sometimes feel restrictive or dated, leading to terms like 'stay-at-home mom' or 'homemaker'.
Practica en la vida real
Contextos reales
Introducing family members
- 我太太是家庭主妇
- 她一直在家当主妇
- 主妇的生活很充实
- 她是个好主妇
Filling out forms
- 职业:家庭主妇
- 全职主妇
- 家务劳动者
- 无业 (Unemployed - though less polite)
Discussing daily routines
- 主妇的一天
- 做家务
- 买菜做饭
- 照顾孩子
Social media topics
- 主妇心得
- 收纳技巧
- 家庭理财
- 育儿经验
Social issues debates
- 家庭主妇的价值
- 社会保障
- 重返职场
- 经济独立
Inicios de conversación
"你觉得当家庭主妇辛苦吗? (Do you think being a housewife is hard?)"
"在你的国家,家庭主妇多吗? (Are there many housewives in your country?)"
"你认为家庭主妇应该有工资吗? (Do you think housewives should have a salary?)"
"如果你有机会,你想当家庭主妇吗? (If you had the chance, would you want to be a housewife?)"
"现代家庭主妇和传统的有什么区别? (What is the difference between modern and traditional housewives?)"
Temas para diario
描述你认识的一位家庭主妇的一天。 (Describe a day in the life of a housewife you know.)
你对“家庭主妇”这个职业有什么看法? (What is your opinion on the 'profession' of being a housewife?)
如果一个家庭没有家庭主妇,生活会变成什么样? (If a family didn't have a housewife, what would life be like?)
讨论家庭主妇在现代社会面临的挑战。 (Discuss the challenges housewives face in modern society.)
写一封感谢信给一位辛勤付出的家庭主妇。 (Write a thank-you letter to a hardworking housewife.)
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasGenerally, no. It is a neutral term for an occupation. However, like in English, some people might prefer '全职妈妈' (full-time mom) as it sounds more active and modern.
No, you must use '家庭主夫' (jiātíng zhǔfū) for a man. The '妇' character specifically means woman.
You can use '个' (gè) for casual talk, '名' (míng) for a neutral/professional tone, and '位' (wèi) to show respect.
Yes. '全职太太' often implies a wealthier household where the wife focuses more on social life and management rather than just chores.
The most common term is '全职妈妈' (quánzhí māmā).
It consists of the 'woman' radical (女) on the left and the 'broom' character (彐) on the right.
Yes, especially in families with young children or elderly parents who need care, though many women also work full-time.
Typically cooking (做饭), cleaning (打扫), shopping (买菜), and childcare (带孩子).
Usually, the term implies it is her primary full-time role, but she might have side interests or small home businesses.
It is pronounced 'tíng' with a rising second tone, similar to the sound of 'ting' in English but rising.
Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas
Write a sentence using '家庭主妇' to describe your mother or a friend.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
List three common tasks a '家庭主妇' does every day in Chinese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Explain in one sentence why someone might choose to be a '家庭主妇'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Compare '家庭主妇' and '全职妈妈' in Chinese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) about the importance of housewives in society.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'She is a hardworking and virtuous housewife.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe the difference between '家庭主妇' and '家庭主夫'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a dialogue between two people talking about their jobs, where one is a housewife.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use the word '决定' (decide) and '家庭主妇' in a sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '虽然...但是...' and '家庭主妇'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
What is your opinion on the term 'housework wages' (家务工资)? Write in Chinese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe a 'modern housewife' (现代家庭主妇) in two sentences.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Many housewives start their own businesses from home.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a compliment for a housewife using '井井有条'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Explain the literal meaning of the characters in '家庭主妇'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a housewife returning to work.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use '照顾' (take care of) and '家庭主妇' in a sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Being a housewife is a full-time job.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using the measure word '位' for housewife.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe how social media has changed the life of a '家庭主妇'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Read aloud: 家庭主妇 (jiātíng zhǔfù)
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'My mother is a housewife' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Pronounce '勤劳的家庭主妇' (qínláo de jiātíng zhǔfù).
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain what a housewife does in Chinese (simple sentences).
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Ask someone if they are a housewife in a polite way.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Being a housewife is very hard' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Pronounce the characters '主' and '妇' clearly.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Talk for 30 seconds about the pros and cons of being a housewife.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'She decided to become a full-time housewife' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Roleplay: You are at a party and introducing your wife as a housewife.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Pronounce '贤惠' (xiánhuì) and use it in a sentence with housewife.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Housewives are very important for the family' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Discuss the difference between '家庭主妇' and '全职妈妈' aloud.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I respect housewives' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Pronounce '精打细算' (jīng dǎ xì suàn) and explain its link to housewives.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'She is not just a housewife, she is a manager' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Talk about a famous housewife from a TV show in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The work of a housewife is often overlooked' in Chinese.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Pronounce '家和万事兴' and relate it to the topic.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe your ideal family structure using '家庭主妇' or its alternatives.
Read this aloud:
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen and write down the word: 家庭主妇
Listen and choose the correct meaning: '我妈妈是家庭主妇' (Audio)
Listen and identify the measure word used: '那名家庭主妇很勤劳' (Audio)
Listen to the sentence and answer: '她决定当全职家庭主妇' (Audio). What did she decide?
Listen and identify the adjective: '贤惠的家庭主妇' (Audio)
Listen and transcribe: '家庭主妇的工作很忙碌。' (Audio)
Listen and answer: '王太太每天买菜、做饭、带孩子。她是做什么的?' (Audio)
Listen and choose the correct tone for '妇' from the audio.
Listen and distinguish: '家庭主妇' vs '家庭主夫' (Audio). Which one was said?
Listen to the short story and name the woman's occupation: (Audio about a woman at home).
Listen and identify the number of housewives mentioned: '三位家庭主妇在聊天。' (Audio)
Listen and transcribe the idiom used: '她是一个精打细算的家庭主妇。' (Audio)
Listen and answer: '她不想当家庭主妇了,她想去工作。' What does she want to do?
Listen and identify the feeling: '当家庭主妇让她感到很幸福。' (Audio)
Listen and write the full sentence: '很多家庭主妇都很有才华。' (Audio)
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The term '家庭主妇' (jiātíng zhǔfù) is essential for discussing family roles in Chinese. Example: '她是一名自豪的家庭主妇' (She is a proud housewife). It underscores the traditional and modern importance of domestic management.
- 家庭主妇 (jiātíng zhǔfù) is the Chinese word for 'housewife', referring to a woman whose main focus is managing her household.
- The word is composed of characters meaning 'family' (家庭) and 'master woman' (主妇), highlighting her central role in the home.
- It is a neutral term used in daily life, media, and official documents to describe a woman's occupation or social status.
- Modern alternatives like '全职妈妈' (full-time mom) are also common, but '家庭主妇' remains the standard formal term for the role.
Use the right measure word
Always use '位' (wèi) when you want to be polite about someone's mother or wife being a housewife.
Learn the male version
Knowing '家庭主夫' (househusband) helps you understand the gendered nature of Chinese nouns.
Context matters
In urban China, '全职妈妈' is often preferred by younger people as it feels more empowering.
Radical power
The '女' (woman) radical is a huge clue for words related to female roles.
Contenido relacionado
Esta palabra en otros idiomas
Gramática relacionada
Más palabras de home
经济实惠
B1Economical and affordable; good value for money.
空调
A1El aire acondicionado (空调) ayuda a combatir el calor extremo.
冷气
A2Aire frío; aire acondicionado. Se usa para enfriar una habitación.
过道
A2Un '过道' es un pasillo en una casa o edificio.
闹钟
A2Un despertador es un reloj que emite un sonido a una hora programada.
整天
A2Todo el día. Él se pasa todo el día durmiendo en el sofá.
独自
A2Solo; por sí mismo. 'Él completó el trabajo solo.'
早就
A2Lo sabía desde hace mucho tiempo. (我早就知道了。)
已经到了
A2Ya ha llegado.
总是这样
A2Siempre es así. Él siempre es de esta manera.