When you want to split the bill in Chinese, there are three common phrases you can use:
1.AA制 (AA zhì)
Explanation: This is a borrowed term from Western culture, referring to each person paying their share of the bill. It’s a widely understood and casual way to suggest splitting the cost.
Example:Wǒmen jīntiān AA ba.我们今天AA吧。Let’s split the bill today.
2.平分 (píngfēn)
Explanation: This phrase means “split evenly” or “share equally.” It’s used when you want to divide the total cost equally among all participants.
Example:Wǒmen píngfēn zhè dùn fàn de fèiyòng ba.我们平分这顿饭的费用吧。Let’s split the cost of this meal evenly.
3.各付各的 (gè fù gè de)
Explanation: Literally meaning “each pays their own,” this phrase is used to indicate that everyone will pay for what they ordered or consumed.
Example:Wǒmen gè fù gè de, zěnmeyàng?我们各付各的，怎么样？How about we each pay for ourselves?
Why do Chinese use ‘AA’ to refer to ‘split the bill’?
“AA制” (AA zhì) is a term borrowed from Western practices and has been adopted in Chinese to refer to splitting the bill, where each person pays for their own share. The origin of “AA” in this context likely comes from the English term “Algebraic Average,” which refers to dividing something equally among participants.
The concept became popular in China as more people began to interact with Western cultures and adopted similar practices in social settings. The “制” (zhì) in “AA制” simply means “system” or “method,” so “AA制” refers to the method or system of splitting the bill equally.
In essence, “AA” in Chinese has become a shorthand for the idea of sharing costs or splitting the bill equally among a group.
Cultural Tips on AA制 (Splitting the Bill) in Chinese Context
When it comes to splitting the bill (AA制) in China, the approach can vary depending on the situation, especially in the context of friendships and dating.
1. Splitting the Bill Among Friends
Casual Gatherings: Among friends, especially younger generations, it’s common to go AA制, where everyone pays for their own share. This practice is often seen in casual settings like group meals or outings.
Cultural Note: In these scenarios, AA is considered fair and avoids awkwardness over who should pay.
Example: Friends might say, “我们AA吧” (Wǒmen AA ba) — “Let’s split the bill.”
Treating Someone（请客qǐngkè）: If a friend explicitly invites others and says, “我请客” (Wǒ qǐngkè) — “It’s my treat,” then AA would not be used. It’s polite to accept their generosity, though sometimes people might offer to pay their share out of courtesy.
2. Splitting the Bill on a Date
First Date: Traditionally, in Chinese culture, it’s common for the person who initiates the date, often the man, to pay the bill on the first date. However, this is changing, and some couples may choose to split the bill.
Cultural Note: Offering to split the bill (各付各的) on a first date can be seen as a sign of independence, but it may also be interpreted as a lack of interest or commitment. It’s essential to gauge the other person’s expectations.
Example: If both agree, they might say, “我们各付各的吧” (Wǒmen gè fù gè de ba) — “Let’s each pay our own.”
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