jiao
Definition
- Noun:
- A unit of currency in China: A "jiao" is a fractional monetary unit of the People's Republic of China. Ten jiao are equal to one yuan, the primary unit. It is analogous to a dime in relation to a U.S. dollar.
Usage
- The word "jiao" is used as a countable noun to specify an amount of Chinese currency. It is typically preceded by a number.
- Example: (This means the price is two-tenths of a yuan.)
- It is often used in financial and everyday shopping contexts within China.
Examples
- Noun:
- I need one more jiao to buy the bus ticket.
- Prices are sometimes listed in jiao, not just whole yuan.
- He gave me five jiao in change.
Advanced Usage
- While "jiao" is the standard term, in informal spoken Chinese, the equivalent term "mao" (角) is universally used. Therefore, in English contexts discussing Chinese currency, "jiao" and "mao" may be used interchangeably, though "jiao" is the official English term.
- Example in context:
Variants and Related Words
- Yuan (n): The primary unit of Chinese currency. One yuan equals ten jiao.
- Fen (n): A smaller subdivision. One jiao equals ten fen (though fen are now rarely used).
Synonyms
- Ten-cent piece: A descriptive synonym in the context of Chinese currency, highlighting its value as one-tenth of a yuan. (Note: This is not an official term, but a descriptive explanation.)
Notes
- The "jiao" is not a physical coin or note itself, but a unit of account. Coins and banknotes are issued in denominations of 1, 2, and 5 jiao.
- It is important to distinguish "jiao" from "yuan". Confusing them would result in a tenfold error in value.
Noun
-
10 jiao equal 1 yuan in China
