By combining them, `吃亏` literally translates to “to eat a loss.” This vivid metaphor perfectly captures the feeling of having to unwillingly “swallow” or accept an unfair outcome, absorbing the deficit yourself.
`吃亏` is a cornerstone concept for understanding everyday Chinese social dynamics, which are often built on a delicate balance of fairness, reciprocity, and “face” (`面子`). In many Western cultures, particularly American culture, the focus is often on individual achievement and “winning” a negotiation. Getting the best possible deal is a sign of skill. In China, while a good outcome is desired, maintaining harmony and perceived fairness is often just as important. To make someone else `吃亏` can cause them to lose face and damage the long-term relationship (`关系`). Complaining that you have `吃亏` is a powerful social statement that things are not fair (`不公平`). Interestingly, there is a famous philosophical saying: `吃亏是福 (chīkuī shì fú)`, which means “to suffer a loss is a blessing.” This doesn't mean people enjoy losing out. Rather, it reflects a traditional value that sometimes, willingly accepting a small, short-term loss can lead to long-term gains, such as a better reputation, stronger relationships, or the avoidance of bigger conflicts. It showcases a patient, long-term perspective that contrasts with a more short-term, individualistic focus on winning every transaction.
`吃亏` is an extremely common word used in almost any informal or semi-formal context.
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