所谓 (suǒwèi)

In Chinese, "所谓" is used to introduce a concept or term that will be defined or explained, equivalent to "so-called" or "what is called" in English. Below are detailed usages of "所谓".

1. Basic Usage

"所谓" is often used to refer to something mentioned earlier or to introduce a concept that will be defined or discussed. For example:

• 这就是所谓的幸福。 (Zhè jiùshì suǒwèi de xìngfú.) — This is what is called happiness.
• 所谓的专家也会犯错误。 (Suǒwèi de zhuānjiā yě huì fàn cuòwù.) — Even the so-called experts can make mistakes.

2. Used to Define or Explain a Concept

"所谓" can be used to define or explain a concept or term that might not be immediately clear. For example:

• 所谓自由，就是能够自由选择自己的生活方式。 (Suǒwèi zìyóu, jiùshì nénggòu zìyóu xuǎnzé zìjǐ de shēnghuó fāngshì.) — So-called freedom is the ability to choose one's own way of life.
• 所谓朋友，就是在你需要时支持你的人。 (Suǒwèi péngyǒu, jiùshì zài nǐ xūyào shí zhīchí nǐ de rén.) — A so-called friend is someone who supports you when you need it.

3. Used in a Disparaging or Ironic Sense

"所谓" can also be used in a disparaging or ironic sense to indicate doubt or skepticism about the validity of the term. For example:

• 他的所谓成功不过是运气好。 (Tā de suǒwèi chénggōng bùguò shì yùnqì hǎo.) — His so-called success is nothing but good luck.
• 这些所谓的创新并没有什么特别之处。 (Zhèxiē suǒwèi de chuàngxīn bìng méiyǒu shéme tèbié zhī chù.) — These so-called innovations are nothing special.

4. Usage in Classical Chinese

In Classical Chinese, "所谓" also appears frequently with similar meanings. For example:

• 所谓大丈夫，当立于天地之间。 (Suǒwèi dà zhàngfū, dāng lì yú tiāndì zhī jiān.) — A so-called great man should stand between heaven and earth (should be strong and independent).