ancestors; older generation
Meanings
2 senses · 8 examplesnoun
ancestors; forefathers; forebears
Refers to one's distant ancestors or forefathers from previous generations. In spoken language, can also be used with the suffix 儿 (上辈儿).
Our ancestors migrated from Shanxi to this place in the early Qing Dynasty.
This old house has been passed down from our ancestors.
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We should continue to carry forward the traditions left by our forefathers.
I heard that our ancestors were businessmen, and only later switched to farming.
noun
the older generation in a family; one's parents' generation
Refers specifically to the generation immediately above one's own, typically one's parents, aunts, or uncles. Often contrasted with 晚辈 or 下辈.
In the eyes of the older generation, a stable job is more important than anything else.
The hardships endured by the older generation are difficult for our generation to truly understand.
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We should respect the opinions of the older generation, but we must also have our own judgment.
The rules passed down from the older generation are still being observed today.