初级
chūjí
In Chinese, the English phrase 'junior' is translated as 初级 (chūjí).
The term 初级 is used to describe a level of proficiency or a stage in a process, such as 'junior level' in a course or 'beginner level' in a skill.
Meaning: younger (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of 初 (chū), meaning 'beginning' or 'initial' and 级 (jí), meaning 'level' or 'grade'.
Which one should you use?
While 初级 refers to the junior or beginner level, 高级 (gāojí) is the antonym used for the advanced or senior level.
How do you pronounce it?
chūjí
Did you know?
- The character 级 in 初级 originally referred to the steps of a ladder, reflecting a physical climb toward mastery.
- The opposite of 初级, which is 高级, is frequently used as a marketing buzzword for 'luxury' or 'high-end' products in China.
- While 初级 describes a level, if you want to call someone your 'junior' in a social or professional hierarchy, you would use the term 后辈.
Examples in context
- 这是初级课程。Zhè shì chūjí kèchéng.This is a junior level course.
Example conversation
Yuting and Zhiqiang are discussing a new project at work.
- 雨婷 Yuting志强，你有初级方案吗？Zhìqiáng, nǐ yǒu chūjí fāng'àn ma?Zhiqiang, do you have a junior plan?
- 志强 Zhiqiang有，我这就发给你。Yǒu, wǒ zhè jiù fā gěi nǐ.Yes, I will send it to you right now.
- 雨婷 Yuting谢谢，初级方案就够了。Xièxiè, chūjí fāng'àn jiù gòule.Thanks, a junior plan is enough.
- 志强 Zhiqiang没问题，请查收。Méi wèntí, qǐng cháshōu.No problem, please check your inbox.
