Some things usually have different meanings in differens cultures.
有些东西在不同文化中有不同的含义。
Here are some words about animals that are used differently in western cultures and Chinese culture.
这里有一些关于动物的词语,在中国文化和西方文化中用法不同。
Most phrases in Chinese about the dog, such as "a homeless dog", "a mad dog","a running dog" and "a dog catching a mouse", have negative meanings.
中国多数关于狗的短语,比如“丧家之犬”、“一条疯狗”、“走狗”和“狗逮耗子”,都是贬义词。
But in western countries, dogs are considered honest and good friends of humans.
但是在西方文化中,狗是人类忠实的好朋友。
The word, "dog", has positive meanings.
“dog”这个单词有积极地含义。
For example, "you are a lucky dog" means you are a lucky person.
比如,“you are a lucky dog”的意思是你是一个幸运儿。
And "every dog has its day" means each person has good luck at times.
“every dog has its day”的意思是每个人都有得意的时候。
As we know, dragons are very important in Chinese culture.
我们知道,龙在中国文化中很重要。
In ancient times, dragons were regarded as strong and magical creatures.
古代,人们认为龙是具有魔法的强大生物。
They brought hope and good luck.
它们能带来希望和好运。
The ancient emperors compared themselves to dragons.
古代皇帝把自己比作龙。
Nowadays, many parents want their children to become"dragons".
现在,很多父母都望子成“龙”。
But in western cultures, dragons were dangerous animals.
但是在西方文化中,龙是很危险的动物。
Heroes killed them to protect people.
英雄屠龙为了保护人们。
Some things have similar meanings in Chinese culture and western cultures.
有些东西在中国文化和西方文化中有相似的含义。
The rose is regarded as a symbol of love in both China and some western countries.
在中国和一些西方国家,玫瑰都是爱情的象征。
People in China and the West think the rose also stands for peace, courage and friendship.
中国和西方的人们认为玫瑰还代表着和平、勇气和友谊。
When we pay attention to the cultural meanings of words, we will understand them better.
我们关注词语的文化含义时,就能更好地理解它们。