指定
zhǐdìng
The English phrase "designation" can be translated into Mandarin as 指定 (zhǐdìng).
While 指定 can function as a noun meaning a "distinguishing mark or name", it is very frequently used as a verb meaning "to designate" or "to appoint".
Meaning: distinguishing mark or name (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
zhǐdìng
Did you know?
- The character 指 in 指定 literally means 'to point with a finger', suggesting the act of physically pointing something out to distinguish it.
- While 指定 means to designate, the term 指定席 is used in railway contexts to refer to a reserved seat, whereas English speakers usually use 'reservation' for the act itself.
- In official Chinese government documents, 指定 often implies a top-down mandate that is non-negotiable, making it sound much more authoritative than the English word 'designation'.
Examples in context
- 我的职务是经理。My designation is manager.
- 请使用指定的名称。Qǐng shǐyòng zhǐdìng de míngchēng.Please use the designated name.
Example conversation
Two colleagues are discussing a meeting room assignment.
- 欣怡 Xinyi浩然，会议室指定好了吗？Hàorán, huìyìshì zhǐdìng hǎole ma?Haoran, has the meeting room been designated?
- 浩然 Haoran还没，我正在确认。Hái méi, wǒ zhèngzài quèrèn.Not yet, I am confirming it now.
- 欣怡 Xinyi请尽快给我一个指定房间。Qǐng jǐnkuài gěi wǒ yīgè zhǐdìng fángjiān.Please give me a designated room as soon as possible.
- 浩然 Haoran没问题，欣怡，马上就发给你。Méi wèntí, Xīnyí, mǎshàng jiù fā gěi nǐ.No problem, Xinyi, I will send it to you right away.
