Understanding 罢工 (bàgōng)
The term 罢工 literally combines 'to cease/stop' (罢) and 'work/labor' (工), meaning a work stoppage or strike. It specifically refers to workers collectively refusing to work as a form of protest, often to demand better wages, conditions, or rights.
Usage in Conversation
罢工 is commonly used in news, labor discussions, and social contexts involving worker rights. It is a noun but can also function as a verb phrase meaning 'to go on strike.' For example, 工人罢工 means 'workers strike.'
Common Collocations
- 罢工行动 (strike action): refers to the organized activity of striking.
- 罢工持续 (strike continues): used to describe the ongoing state of a strike.
- 罢工结束 (strike ends): marks the conclusion of a strike.
Important Notes
罢工 is a formal term often used in media and official contexts. It implies collective action and is not used for individual work stoppages. Avoid confusing it with 停工, which can mean temporary suspension of work but not necessarily a protest.
Understanding 罢工 helps learners discuss labor issues and social movements accurately and naturally.