Glossary
996 Work Culture
A controversial work schedule in China requiring employees to work from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week, leading to concerns about overwork and burnout.
Example:
许多科技公司的员工都面临着996工作制的压力，这使得他们很难平衡工作和个人生活。
Collectivism
A cultural value in Chinese work culture that prioritizes teamwork and group harmony over individual interests and achievements.
Example:
在团队项目中，中国员工倾向于强调集体主义精神，确保每个成员都为共同目标贡献力量。
Gaokao (高考)
The National Higher Education Entrance Examination in China, a high-stakes exam taken at the end of senior year that determines university admission.
Example:
每年夏天，数百万中国学生都会参加高考，这是他们人生中最重要的考试之一。
Hierarchy
A key characteristic of Chinese work culture where there is a clear chain of command and strong respect for authority figures.
Example:
在中国公司，员工通常会非常尊重上级，因为等级制度在职场中非常重要。
Relationships
Personal connections and trust (often referred to as 'Guanxi') that are vital in Chinese business and social interactions, influencing opportunities and collaborations.
Example:
在中国做生意，建立良好的人际关系至关重要，因为信任和个人联系能带来更多合作机会。
Rural China Education Challenges
Significant disparities in educational quality and resources between rural and urban schools in China, including fewer teachers, larger classes, and limited access to modern facilities.
Example:
许多农村教育面临挑战，例如缺乏先进的教学设备和经验丰富的老师，这使得农村学生在升学竞争中处于劣势。
Work Ethic
A strong dedication to work, often involving long hours and a commitment to completing tasks, prevalent in Chinese work culture.
Example:
中国的工程师以其强大的职业道德而闻名，他们经常加班加点以确保项目按时完成。
Work-Life Balance
The challenge of achieving a healthy equilibrium between professional responsibilities and personal life, often difficult in China due to demanding work culture like 996.
Example:
随着社会对员工健康的关注，越来越多的中国公司开始讨论如何改善员工的工作与生活平衡。
中学 (zhōngxué)
Secondary education in China, encompassing both junior and senior secondary levels.
Example:
很多中国学生在中学阶段就开始为高考做准备，学习压力很大。
初中 (chūzhōng)
Junior secondary education in China, covering grades 7-9, which is compulsory.
Example:
在中国，完成初中教育是每个学生的义务，为高中学习打下基础。
小学 (xiǎoxué)
Primary education in China, typically for grades 1-6 (ages 6-12), which is compulsory and free.
Example:
我的表弟今年六岁，他刚开始上小学，每天都很兴奋地去学校学习汉字。
高中 (gāozhōng)
Senior secondary education in China, covering grades 10-12, which is not compulsory but is necessary for university admission.
Example:
如果你想考大学，就必须努力完成高中学业，因为这是通往高等教育的必经之路。
高等教育 (gāoděng jiàoyù)
Higher education in China, referring to universities and colleges that students attend after completing senior secondary education.
Example:
许多学生梦想进入顶尖的高等教育机构，以获得更好的职业发展机会。