Chinese Baby Names Selection Criteria

How do Chinese parents choose names for their babies? There are several ways this can be accomplished. The most popular way to name a baby is to base it on the parents' expectations about what kind of person the child will be. A person carries the name he is given for his whole life, so it is an ever-present reminder of his parents' aspirations.

These expectations can generally fall into one of six different categories. The six categories are: 1. Moral accomplishments, 2. Scholastic success and intelligence, 3. Beauty and good health, 4. Social and financial standing, 5. A safe and non-dramatic life, and 6. The power of a strong will combined with independence.

Some families name their children based on the birth order of the siblings. Some families have age-old traditions that have been handed down from generation to generation, which guide how the babies are named. These infants are named by using a system that is unique to each family -- one that has been defined by his or her ancestors.

Yet another method is by naming after historical events or to reflect historical background common in Chinese history.

The last method is based on astrology. With the astrological method, a child's name may be determined according to the time, month, and season of his birth. The child抯 birth year animal signs may also determine the name. The Five Elements may also play a role in the names.

Since parents are likely to have different aspirations for their sons and daughters, there are further refinement to the technique of naming Chinese baby boys and Chinese baby girls.

A good man is expected to have good moral character and to devote himself to his country and people. He should be healthy, ambitious, firm, have wisdom and ability and bring honor to the family.A good man will possess a character that is above reproach, and will be dedicated to his family and his homeland. He should possess good health, strong ambition, a firm stance, and a powerful sense of honor that he brings to the family.

For this reason, baby boys may be named in a manner that honors a specific ancestor and promotes the continuance of family business, as well as tradition. This can also include having high hopes, a strong character, a tremendous power of will and determination, a good sense of responsibility, physical strength and vitality, an open mind, great intelligence, and the willingness to be of service to the country and its citizens.

How about Chinese names for infant girls? Parents aspire for their girls to be virtuous, chaste, and loyal to family. They should be mindful of housekeeping, take good care of the family, and have strong affection for their siblings. Girls are expected to exist in harmony with their neighbors. Furthermore, they should possess a combination of grace, intelligence, and beauty.

Because of this, Chinese baby girls are named in a way that encourages femininity. The ideal Chinese woman is virtuous, tender, beautiful in a very feminine way, intelligent with great wit, graceful, and elegant.

Now you know!

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