How do the Chinese name their baby boys and girls? There are a number of methods. The most common one is based on the aspiration of their parents. As the name stays with the person throughout his life, it serves to remind him of what his parents expect of him.
These expectations can generally fall into one of six different categories. The six categories are: 1. Moral accomplishments, 2. Scholastic success and intelligence, 3. Beauty and good health, 4. Social and financial standing, 5. A safe and non-dramatic life, and 6. The power of a strong will combined with independence.
Another method of naming is based on the seniority of the siblings. Some Chinese families cherish the tradition of giving names based on a specific method that was handed down from generations to generations. Whenever a baby is born in the family, he or she is simply given a name using a series or methodology defined by its ancestor.
A different naming convention is to draw on historical events or to memorialize national events in Chinese history.
Lastly, there is a system that is astrologically-based. A baby name can be derived from the time or season of birth, or the animal that represents the year that the baby was born. The Five Elements can also be an inspiration for the names.
Because a parent’s hopes will be different for a boy than for a girl, there are differences between the ways a boy may be named and how a girl’s name is derived.
A good man is expected to have good moral character and to devote himself to his country and people. He should be healthy, ambitious, firm, have wisdom and ability and bring honor to the family.A good man will possess a character that is above reproach, and will be dedicated to his family and his homeland. He should possess good health, strong ambition, a firm stance, and a powerful sense of honor that he brings to the family.
For this reason, baby boys may be named in a manner that honors a specific ancestor and promotes the continuance of family business, as well as tradition. This can also include having high hopes, a strong character, a tremendous power of will and determination, a good sense of responsibility, physical strength and vitality, an open mind, great intelligence, and the willingness to be of service to the country and its citizens.
How about Chinese names for infant girls? Parents aspire for their girls to be virtuous, chaste, and loyal to family. They should be mindful of housekeeping, take good care of the family, and have strong affection for their siblings. Girls are expected to exist in harmony with their neighbors. Furthermore, they should possess a combination of grace, intelligence, and beauty.
For this reason, the ways of naming Chinese baby girls are steeped in the promotion of the revered feminine qualities. These include elegance, feminine beauty, virtue, intelligence and wit, tenderness, and grace.
You now know everything you need to know about Chinese baby names!
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