thread-bound book format; theatrical spoken parts
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesnoun
blank-center format (in thread-bound books)
formalA technical term in Chinese bookbinding and printing history, referring to a layout where the central column (where the page folds) is left blank, in contrast to '黑口' (hei kou) which has a black line. Primarily used in discussions of traditional printing.
This Ming Dynasty edition book is in the blank-center format.
When authenticating ancient book editions, one needs to observe whether it's the blank-center or black-line format.
noun
spoken dialogue; recitative (in Chinese opera)
neutralA theatrical term referring to the spoken parts (dialogue, monologue) in Chinese opera, as opposed to singing (唱) and acrobatics (做, 打). The erhua form '白口儿' (bái kǒur) is common in oral contexts.
This elderly male role's spoken dialogue is very clear and powerful.
Beijing opera performance emphasizes singing, recitation, acting, and acrobatics; recitation refers to the spoken parts.
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His delivery of this spoken passage was full of emotion, winning a round of applause from the entire audience.