Guanhua, Hangugeo or Nihongo? Trivia Quiz

Answer: Chinese

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice that involves arranging the environment to create harmony and balance, promoting the positive flow of energy (qi or chi). It is believed to enhance well-being, prosperity and overall quality of life.

Feng Shui has its roots in ancient Chinese philosophy, particularly Daoism and the concept of yin and yang. Its origins can be traced back thousands of years to early Chinese cosmology and the observation of natural landscapes.

The term "Feng Shui" (风水) is literally translated as "wind-water" in English. It entered the English language as a transliteration of the Chinese characters. As interest in Eastern philosophies and practices grew in the West, Feng Shui gained popularity, and the term became widely used to describe the art and science of creating a harmonious environment. Feng Shui principles have been applied to architecture, interior design and urban planning.

Answer: Chinese

Ginseng refers to a slow-growing perennial plant with fleshy roots belonging to the genus Panax. The term is applied to several species, including Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). The roots are valued in traditional medicine for their purported health benefits, as they are believed to have adaptogenic properties that help the body resist stressors and restore balance.The use of ginseng in traditional Chinese medicine dates back over 2,000 years.

The word "ginseng" is a transliteration of the Chinese term "rénshēn" (人参), where "rén" (人) means "person" and "shēn" (参) means "root" or "herb". The term originates from the idea that the root of the plant resembles the shape of a human body.

It was adopted into English directly from Chinese as global interest in traditional Chinese medicine and herbal remedies grew. As a popular herb with perceived health benefits, ginseng gained recognition in Western markets.

Answer: Chinese

The word "lychee" refers to a tropical fruit prized for its sweet, slightly tart flavour and distinctive appearance. Native to China, the lychee (Litchi chinensis) has a rough, reddish-brown outer skin, juicy white flesh and a single large seed.

The English word "lychee" is thought to have been adapted from the Chinese word "lìzhī" (荔枝). Introduced into the English language in the early 19th century by Portuguese traders and explorers who encountered the fruit in Asia, the lychee quickly gained popularity for its exotic taste and appearance.

Lychees are commonly eaten fresh or dried and are used in a variety of culinary applications, including desserts, beverages and savoury dishes. Its fragrant aroma and sweet flavour have made it a favourite ingredient in global cuisine.

Answer: Chinese

The word "oolong" refers to a traditional type of semi-oxidised tea that originated in China. In English, "oolong" is a direct transliteration of the Chinese term. The character 烏 (wū) means "black" or "dark" and 龍 (lóng) means "dragon". Together, 烏龍 (oolong) means "black dragon", possibly alluding to the dark, curly appearance of the tea leaves after oxidation.

The term "oolong" entered the English language in the mid-19th century, borrowed from the Chinese dialect. It became popular as Western interest in Chinese teas grew, particularly during the period of trade and cultural exchange between China and Europe. Known for its nuanced flavours, Oolong tea is appreciated worldwide for its aromatic qualities and variety of flavour profiles.

Answer: Korean

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art characterised by its emphasis on kicking techniques, especially high and spinning kicks. It combines combat and self-defence techniques with sport and exercise.

The term "Taekwondo" (태권도) consists of three Korean characters: "tae" (태) meaning "foot", "kwon" (권) meaning "fist", and "do" (도) meaning "way" or "art". Together, taekwondo translates as "the way of the foot and the fist".

The word "Taekwondo" was incorporated into the English language in the mid-20th century as the practice gained international recognition. It became an Olympic sport in 2000. It is practised worldwide for its physical benefits, self-discipline and as a competitive sport that promotes mental and physical fitness.

Answer: Korean

Soju is a clear, distilled alcoholic beverage from Korea, typically made from rice, wheat or barley. It has a neutral taste with a subtle sweetness and is known for its relatively high alcohol content, usually between 16% and 25% ABV.

The term "soju" (소주) is derived from the Korean words "so" (소), which means to burn or distill, and "ju" (주), which refers to alcoholic beverages in general. Together, "soju" translates as "burned liquor" or "distilled alcohol".

Soju gained popularity outside Korea in the late 20th century due to its smooth flavour and versatility in cocktails. It has become a staple of Korean culture, often consumed during meals and social gatherings, and is internationally recognised as a prominent Korean spirit.

Answer: Korean

Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish made from fermented vegetables, most commonly cabbage and radish, seasoned with chilli, garlic, ginger and salt. It is known for its tangy, spicy and umami flavour, as well as its probiotic properties, which contribute to digestive health.

The term "kimchi" (김치) comes from the Korean word "gimchi", which refers to the process of pickling vegetables. It is deeply rooted in Korean cuisine and culture, with a history dating back thousands of years.

Introduced to English-speaking countries in the late 20th century, kimchi became popular worldwide for its unique taste and health benefits. It has since become a celebrated staple of Korean cuisine, enjoyed as a side dish, an ingredient or as a stand-alone dish in a variety of culinary creations.

Answer: Korean

Hanbok is the traditional Korean clothing characterised by bright colours and simple lines, typically worn during traditional festivals, ceremonies and special occasions such as weddings and Lunar New Year celebrations.

The term "hanbok" (한복) combines two Korean words: "han" (한), which refers to Korean or Korea, and "bok" (복), which means clothing or garment. Together, "hanbok" translates as "Korean clothing".

Deeply rooted in Korean history and culture, hanbok design reflects Confucian ideals of modesty and harmony with nature. It features flowing lines and vibrant colours that symbolise the wearer's social status, age and occasion.

The hanbok was brought to Western audiences in the late 20th century and quickly became popular for its elegant aesthetics and cultural significance. It is still worn proudly today, representing Korean heritage and tradition on the world stage and at various cultural events.

Answer: Japanese

Haiku is a traditional form of Japanese poetry known for its simplicity and depth. Typically consisting of three lines with a syllable pattern of 5-7-5, haiku often capture moments in nature or human experience with keen observation and evocative imagery.

The term "haiku" (俳句) comes from Japanese, where "hai" (俳) means "playful" or "unorthodox", and "ku" (句) means "verse" or "stanza". Together, "haiku" denotes a poetic form that follows specific rules of syllable count and often explores themes of seasons, emotions, or fleeting moments.

Introduced to English-speaking audiences in the late 19th century through translations and literary exchanges, haiku gained popularity as a concise and expressive art form. It continues to inspire poets worldwide, embodying the essence of Japanese aesthetics and the power to capture profound insights in minimalist verse.

Answer: Japanese

Origami is the traditional Japanese art of paper folding, known for using folding techniques to transform a flat sheet of paper into intricate sculptures. It encompasses a wide range of creations, from simple animals to complex geometric shapes and modular designs. Origami dates back to the 17th century and has been used in religious ceremonies, gift-giving and as a form of artistic expression. It emphasises creativity, precision and mindfulness in the folding process.

The term "origami" (折り紙) is derived from Japanese words: "ori" (折り) meaning "to fold" and "kami" (紙) meaning "paper". Together, "origami" translates to "folding paper".

Since its introduction to Western countries in the early 20th century, origami has gained worldwide popularity as a hobby and educational tool. It is celebrated for its therapeutic benefits, developing concentration, patience and fine motor skills, while fostering an appreciation for the beauty of paper as a medium for artistic creation.

Answer: Japanese

"Ninja" refers to a secret agent or mercenary in feudal Japan, known for their skills in espionage, sabotage and guerrilla warfare. They were highly trained in martial arts, stealth tactics, disguise and unconventional methods of warfare. Ninjas have played a significant role in Japanese history, particularly during the Sengoku period (15th-17th centuries), where they operated as spies and assassins.

The term "ninja" (忍者) comes from the Japanese word "nin" (忍), which means "to endure" or "to hide", and "ja" (者), which means "person" or "agent". Together, "ninja" means "one who endures" or "one who hides".

Known to Western culture through popular media and folklore, ninjas have become iconic figures associated with agility, stealth and martial prowess. They continue to inspire fascination and admiration in modern interpretations, often portrayed as formidable and mysterious warriors in films, literature and video games.

Answer: Japanese

Bonsai is the ancient Japanese art of growing miniature trees in containers, emphasising harmony, balance and aesthetic beauty. It involves careful pruning, wiring and training to create small-scale replicas of mature trees that evoke natural landscapes and inspire contemplation. Rooted in Chinese horticultural practices dating back over a thousand years, bonsai evolved in Japan during the Kamakura period (12th-14th centuries) as a fusion of artistic expression and spiritual discipline. It reflects the principles of balance, simplicity and reverence for nature.

The term "bonsai" (盆栽) combines two Japanese characters: "bon" (盆), which means "tray" or "pot", and "sai" (栽), which means "to plant" or "to cultivate". Together, "bonsai" translates as "planting in a tray" or "potted plant".

Introduced to Western cultures in the late 19th century through international exhibitions and cultural exchanges, bonsai gained admiration for its meticulous craftsmanship and philosophical underpinnings. It continues to be appreciated worldwide as a symbol of patience, beauty and the art of cultivating living miniature sculptures.