chinese-language
UK[ˌtʃaɪˈniːz ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ]US[ˌtʃaɪˈniːz ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ]
n
The language of China, especially the standard language (Mandarin) based on the speech of Beijing.
n
The Sinitic language family, including its many dialects and varieties.
Morpheme Breakdown
chinese
language
chinese
of China
language
system of communication
Etymology
The compound 'Chinese-language' is a modern English formation combining the demonym 'Chinese' with the noun 'language'. 'Chinese' derives ultimately from Sanskrit 'Cīna', referring to ancient China, which passed through Persian and Latin before acquiring the '-ese' suffix in European languages to denote origin. 'Language' traces back to Latin 'lingua', meaning "tongue," which metaphorically extended to mean "speech" and then "a system of speech." The compound's logic is transparent, directly specifying the particular system of communication associated with the people and culture of China.
Analysis
Structure: chinese (of China) + language (system of communication)
- chinese: From the country name 'China' + the English adjectival suffix '-ese', of Latin origin via Italian and Old French, indicating origin or association.
- language: From Old French 'langage', from Latin 'lingua' (tongue, speech, language). The functional role is the core noun denoting a system of communication.
Examples
The university offers a comprehensive course in Chinese-language and literature.
Proficiency in the Chinese-language is a valuable asset in international business.
She is conducting research on the evolution of the Chinese-language writing system.