The Origin of the Chinese Surname


The Chinese name
If you are reading this page, chances are likely that you understand the structure of a typical Chinese name when compared with a typical western name. In the western world, a person’s family name is positioned after the person’s given name. In the Chinese culture, a person’s name usually consists of three characters, but can range from two to four characters. A person’s family name is positioned first and their given name is positioned last.

Symbolism and the name
Chinese traditions rely heavily on symbolism and a persons name is no different. A Chinese surname is passed down through the generations and tells others about the person’s family history. The surname is often looked upon as a symbol of a man’s pride and honor. The history associated with the surname often tells of past glorious deeds by the person’s ancestors. Just as there are common male and female names in the west like John, Peter, Mary, and Sue; there are common names given to men and women. A person’s given name must also represent a character trait. A male with the given name of qiang2 (強-strong, powerful, energetic) will tend to show elements of strength and power, and you will never find a woman with a given name of qiang2 (強). Similarly, a person with the given name of ming2 (明-bright, clear) will tend to be smarter. A woman with a given name of li4(麗-beautiful, elegant) is hoped to mature into a graceful beautiful woman, and likewise you will never find a man named li4(麗). Interestingly, you may find a woman with a given name of di4(弟-younger brother). Sometimes a father who has already had one daughter may name their second child di4(弟), prior to their birth in hopes that the unborn child will be a son.


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