Look Who it Was Random video

Unsatisfied? Voice a Complaint with 吐槽 (tǔcáo)

770 views · Published 12 August 2016 · 3:16 · Indexed 25 October 2026

Channel: eChineseLearning · 2016 · Education

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To read the full lesson, check HERE: http://goo.gl/7RZ5Vx

Is the customer always right? Well, if voicing a complaint is what you're ready to do, you need to learn the Chinese word 吐槽 (tǔcáo)”. The word is more than just simply a "complaint" and is often used with friends to tease one another when they "slip up". When used playfully, it can be endearing. Let's break down it's meaning

吐槽 (tǔcáo)” literally means “to spit in someone’s bowl”
吐 (tǔ): v. to vomit/to throw up
槽 (cáo): n. trough/manger/groove/channel

Yes, it's not a pretty word by any means, but we can use it among friends if say it with the right expression on your face. For an example of tǔcáo in use in a more sincere, serious manner here is a typical sentence:

Wǎngyǒu tǔcáo zhè bù diànyǐng yìdiánr dōu bù hǎo kàn.
网友          吐槽  这   部   电影    一点儿   都   不   好看。
Online friends criticized that the movie was very bad.

So, next time you have discontent, speak up!

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