内地
nèi dìThe part of China excluding the special administrative regions (Hong Kong, Macau) and Taiwan.
内地游客占了香港酒店入住率的很大比例。
Mainland Chinese tourists account for a large proportion of Hong Kong's hotel occupancy.
内地的经济发展速度非常快。
The economic development in mainland China is very rapid.
Often used in contrast to 'special administrative regions' (SARs) like Hong Kong and Macau, or Taiwan.
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Context matters
In Hong Kong and Macau, '内地' is the politically neutral term for mainland China. Avoid using '大陆' (mainland) in formal Hong Kong contexts, as it may imply political stance.
⚡Gold Rule
Avoid ambiguity
When speaking to audiences in mainland China, use '大陆' instead of '内地' to avoid confusion, as '内地' is not commonly used there.
📖Word Origin
Composed of '内' (inside/internal) and '地' (land/area), meaning 'inland' or 'mainland' in contrast to coastal regions or SARs.
📝Usage Notes
In official contexts, '内地' is the standard term for mainland China when referring to it from the perspective of Hong Kong or Macau. It is rarely used in mainland China itself, where '大陆' (mainland) is more common.