Cryptocurrency has become a global phenomenon, and understanding its terminology in Chinese can be invaluable for learners and investors alike. Below, we break down key crypto concepts with their Mandarin translations, character breakdowns, and cultural insights.
Cryptocurrency Basics in Chinese
Term: 加密货币 (jiāmì huòbì)
- Literal Meaning: "Encrypted currency"
Components:
- 加密 (jiāmì): "Encrypt" (加 jiā = "add" + 密 mì = "secret")
- 货币 (huòbì): "Currency" (货 huò = "goods/money" + 币 bì = "coin")
This reflects cryptography’s role in securing digital transactions.
Cryptocurrency Names in Mandarin
1. Bitcoin (比特币 bǐtèbì)
- Translation: Phonetic adaptation of "bit" + 币 (bì, "coin").
- Alternate Name: 位元币 (wèiyuánbì), translating "bitcoin" directly.
2. Altcoin (山寨币 shānzhàibì)
- Literal Meaning: "Counterfeit coin" (山寨 shānzhài = "copycat").
- Context: Humorous term for alternatives to Bitcoin. Originally called 竞争币 (jìngzhēng bì, "competition coin").
3. Slang Terms
Shitcoin:
- 空气币 (kōngqìbì, "air coin")
- 垃圾币 (lājībì, "rubbish coin")
- Blue-Chip Coin: 主流币 (zhǔliúbì, "mainstream coin").
Top 10 Altcoins and Their Chinese Names
| Cryptocurrency | Chinese Name | Pinyin |
|----------------|-------------------|-----------------|
| Ethereum (ETH) | 以太坊 | yǐtàifāng |
| Litecoin (LTC) | 莱特币 | láitèbì |
| Cardano (ADA) | 艾达币 | àidábì |
| Polkadot (DOT) | 波卡币 | bōkǎbì |
| Bitcoin Cash | 比特现金 | bǐtè xiànjīn |
| Stellar (XLM) | 恒星币 | héngxīngbì |
| Dogecoin (DOGE)| 狗狗币 | gǒugǒubì |
| Binance Coin | 币安币 | bìānbì |
| Tether (USDT) | 泰达币 | tàidábì |
| Monero (XMR) | 门罗币 | ménluóbì |
👉 Explore crypto trading platforms for hands-on experience with these currencies.
FAQ Section
1. Why is altcoin called 山寨币 (shānzhàibì) in Chinese?
It humorously labels altcoins as "copycat coins," referencing their derivation from Bitcoin.
2. Are Chinese crypto terms phonetic or translated?
Mixed: Some are phonetic (e.g., 比特币 for Bitcoin), while others are literal (e.g., 位元币).
3. What’s the difference between 空气币 and 垃圾币?
Both mean "shitcoin," with 空气币 (kōngqìbì) emphasizing worthlessness ("air"), and 垃圾币 (lājībì) meaning "trash."
4. Is cryptocurrency widely discussed in China?
Yes, but within regulatory frameworks. Terms like 主流币 (zhǔliúbì) reflect mainstream adoption.
👉 Learn about crypto regulations to stay compliant.
By mastering these terms, you’ll navigate Chinese crypto discussions with confidence. Whether trading or studying, linguistic clarity is key!
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