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先生
xiānsheng
mister
请问，这位先生，您需要什么帮助吗？
Excuse me, sir, may I help you?
formal
A polite term for a man, often used to address or refer to someone respectfully
这位先生是我们的新经理。
This gentleman is our new manager.
请问，先生，您贵姓？
Excuse me, sir, what is your surname?
Used before a surname or alone to address a man politely. In some contexts, it can also mean 'husband' or 'teacher' (historical usage).
informal
Husband
她的先生是一位医生。
Her husband is a doctor.
Commonly used in spoken Chinese to refer to one's husband.
literary
Teacher (historical or formal usage, e.g., in classical Chinese)
孔子被尊称为‘至圣先师’。
Confucius is revered as 'The Supreme Sage Teacher'.
Rare in modern usage except in historical or literary contexts.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Polite Address
Use '先生' to address a man politely, especially in formal or service settings. It is similar to 'Mr.' in English but more commonly used in Chinese.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
The meaning of '先生' depends on context: it can mean 'mister,' 'husband,' or 'teacher' (historical). Always consider the situation to avoid confusion.
Word Origin
From Middle Chinese 先生 (sraen-sræng), combining '先' (xian, 'first' or 'earlier') and '生' (sheng, 'life' or 'person'). Originally meant 'elder' or 'teacher' in classical Chinese, later evolving to mean 'mister' or 'husband' in modern usage.
Usage Notes
1. Addressing someone: Use '先生' alone or with a surname (e.g., '王先生'). Avoid using it for women unless referring to a female teacher in historical contexts. 2. Husband: Common in spoken Chinese, often used in family contexts. 3. Formal settings: Preferred over '男士' (gentleman) for politeness.
Word Breakdown
先
first or earlier
root生
life or person
root汉英词典