A Paraphrase for Occidental Observation: "XYZ with Chinese Characteristics"

Handy Catchphrase for Those with a Bent for Classification

COLORFUL CATCHPHRASE

China defines its form of government as "Socialism with Chinese characteristics" (see image).

Since this definition sprouted years ago, foreign folks who have worked in, lived in, and dealt with China have taken off with the latter end of this definition and applied it conveniently (and appropriately) to help describe the many things China has adopted from the Western world. Thus, "XYZ with Chinese Characteristics", with XYZ being the matter at hand.

Of the more popular modified forms of the original phrase are:

- "Democracy with Chinese characteristics"

- "Capitalism with Chinese characteristics"

- "Business practices with Chinese characteristics"

Sometimes, one may even make humorous or ironic reference to the "way things are done in China". My friend, Paul, recently commented on an environmentally oriented urban development project currently underway in China:

PARAPHRASING IN PRACTICE

"...they are going to paint the entire island green: three coats (as they are not using a primer). Yes, they are going to greenwash the entire island. Sustainability with Chinese characteristics, in other words."

For those of you not familiar with the Occidental bent on all-things-Chinese, you are now ready and armed to make your own observations with Chinese characteristics. Go forth and classify.

Have fun, y'all...