Reviving the Spirit of Camaraderie: The Call to Bring Back 'Comrade' as a Mainstream Greeting
The People's Daily, a leading Chinese newspaper, recently called for the revival of the term "同志" (comrade) as a mainstream greeting, sparking widespread discussion among the public. In everyday life, people's approaches to addressing strangers have become increasingly diverse, with terms like "先生" (mister), "小姐" (miss), and "老板" (boss) being commonly used, in addition to "同志". The use of "同志" as a greeting has a long history in China, particularly during the early years of the People's Republic when the emphasis was on equality among all citizens. The term conveyed a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
9 July 2025
However, with China's economic development and cultural diversification, various forms of address have emerged, and "同志" has gradually fallen out of favor in some quarters. Other terms, such as "师傅" (a term of respect for someone with skills or experience), have also been used in specific contexts. For instance, in traditional apprenticeships, "师傅" was a common way to address a master craftsman or someone with expertise. This term is still used today as a sign of respect for someone's abilities or character.
The appeal to revive "同志" as a mainstream greeting is seen by some as a call to return to a more egalitarian and sincere way of interaction, moving away from terms that may imply hierarchical relationships or insincerity. It reflects a desire for a more genuine and respectful form of address, one that values equality and mutual respect. In recent years, there has been a growing trend to use more casual or polite terms, which sometimes may come across as insincere or overly formal.
The discussion around the use of "同志" and other greetings highlights the evolving nature of social norms and values in China, as well as the complexities of communication in a society undergoing rapid change. The emphasis on reviving "同志" also touches on the broader issue of social etiquette and the role of language in shaping societal values. By reconsidering how we address each other, there is an opportunity to reflect on what kind of society we aspire to be – one that values equality, respect, and sincerity in all interactions.
The People's Daily's call for "同志" to return to mainstream usage is a reflection of the newspaper's concern for social trends and its desire for a more harmonious society. The term "同志" has a rich history, originally referring to like-minded individuals and later becoming a symbol of revolutionary spirit. However, its meaning has evolved over time, and in modern society, it has taken on new connotations. The call to revive "同志" has sparked debate, with some arguing that it could promote social unity and equality, while others see it as restrictive or forced.
Netizens have also weighed in on the discussion, with some suggesting that the state should standardize the use of titles, such as "comrade" for public sector personnel, "teacher" for school staff, "doctor" for hospital staff, and "master" for factory workers. This, they argue, would allow titles to return to the mainstream, making the social atmosphere more upright and innocent. Others have pointed out that the way people address each other can reflect the social atmosphere, and that the use of "同志" in the past conveyed a sense of equality and camaraderie.
Ultimately, the return of "同志" to mainstream usage could signify a shift towards a more genuine and harmonious social atmosphere. People believe that using respectful and appropriate titles is a reflection of societal civilization, allowing individuals to feel a sense of true emotions and kindness. By standardizing the use of respectful titles like "同志," society can promote a better social environment and create a more harmonious community. The discussion around "同志" highlights the complexities of language and its role in shaping societal values, and the need for a more thoughtful and considerate approach to interpersonal relationships.
Comments
