Meaning and Usage
The term 接班 (jiēbān) primarily means to take over a work shift or to succeed someone in a role or position. It is commonly used in workplaces where shifts are involved, such as hospitals, factories, or transportation, as well as in contexts where a person inherits a job title or responsibility.
Common Contexts
- Shift work: 接班 is used when one worker relieves another at the end of a shift.
- Succession: It can also mean taking over a managerial or leadership position.
Collocations and Patterns
- 轮流接班 (lúnliú jiēbān): take turns to relieve each other on duty.
- 接班人 (jiēbān rén): the person who takes over the position.
- 接班时间 (jiēbān shíjiān): the time when the shift change happens.
Usage Notes
When using 接班, the focus is on the act of handing over or taking over responsibility, often implying continuity and smooth transition. It is more formal and specific than just saying "work" or "shift." Avoid confusing 接班 with 上班 (shàngbān), which means "to go to work" or "to start work." 接班 emphasizes the handover process rather than the start of work itself.