Meaning of hong bao | Babel Free

Definitions

Noun. [B2]

Examples

“In the old days gifts of money were given to children by the older generation and were placed in red envelopes called hong bao. This practice has been discouraged by the Communists because it perpetuates "feudal-capitalist consciousness," the worship of wealth and money.”

“New Year's Eve is the traditional date for reunion dinners, but relatives and old friends enjoy getting together for feasting and entertainment throughout the entire holiday season. Gift giving is another time-honored custom still widely practiced among Singapore's Chinese. Hong bao, or "lucky money," is by far the favored item, bestowed in bright red envelopes by married family members upon the young and single.”

“After extensive negotiations, and at the arrival of the groom at the bride's house, the groom is usually admitted only after he offers a red envelope (hong bao) containing money in multiples of 99 or 999. Those numbers symbolize a long, happy marriage.”

CEFR level