Usage of 别人 (bié ren)
The word 别人 means "other people" or "others" and is used to refer to people other than oneself or the person being spoken to. It often implies a distinction between 'us' and 'them' or 'self' and 'others.'
Common contexts
Referring to other people’s opinions or actions: 别人 is frequently used when talking about what others think or do, often to contrast with oneself or the listener.
Possession or gifts from others: It can indicate something belonging to or given by someone else.
Comparisons involving others: Common in expressions comparing someone’s behavior or situation with that of others.
Collocations and patterns
- 别人家的孩子 (other people's children): Used to compare behavior or qualities.
- 别人的东西 (other people's things): Refers to possessions of others.
- 想别人的看法 (think about others' opinions): Often used when discussing social pressure.
Pragmatic notes
When using 别人, speakers often imply a boundary or difference between themselves and others. It can carry a neutral tone but sometimes also a subtle judgment or distancing, especially in comparisons. Avoid confusing 别人 with 自己 (oneself) or 大家 (everyone).
Common confusion
Don't confuse 别人 with 别的, which means "other" as an adjective modifying nouns (e.g., 别的东西 "other things"). 别人 specifically refers to people.