Chinese Mentality
Meaning of the term “Laowai”
The term “Laowai” is frequently used in modern Chinese language in reference to foreigners (not Asians). In order to understand what meaning is implied here, let’s analyze the hieroglyphs this word consists of.
The word “Laowai” 老外 is made of 老( lao) – old/respectful, and 外 (wai) – outer/outside. The hieroglyph 外 (wai) is also a part of the word “foreigner” – – 外国人 ( wai guo ren).
Despite the fact, that prefix “lao” means “respectful”, the term “laowai” in most cases is used to describe a foreigner who behaves like an ignoramus – doesn’t speak Chinese, doesn’t even try to understand local ways and traditions. In recent years a lot of Europeans appeared in major Chinese cities working as models, dancers or hostesses. Such work doesn’t require any special skills or knowledge, but is paid really well, especially in comparison with average Chinese salaries. The problem is, that high income of such “white people” often does not in the least correspond to their cultural level.
Such “laowais” tend treat the Chinese and their culture with contempt, showing little to no interest in their customs and traditions.
Nevertheless, such tendency doesn’t mean that the term “laowai” always has negative connotation.
One famous Chinese rapper even made a videoclip about it, drawing the line between “foreign friends” and the abovementioned “laowais”.