Today's Topic
Do You Like To Be Called A "Laowai"?
"Laowai" is the informal Chinese term for the English word "foreigner".
Some expats say the "lao" (old) part of the term is not nice, makes them feel like outsiders.
Some think there's nothing disrespectful about about using the word "Laowai" to describe foreigners.
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Disapproval
Most of expats who don't like "Laowai" mainly have a problem with the "old" part. Worse still, they don't like the feeling that they've been here all their lives, but they are still a "Laowai". It is really annoying.
It feels offensive when it's from total strangers, for example, hearing people say 'Look at that Laowai' makes one feel uncomfortable.
When I hear some people call me a foreigner or outsider, I feel like I am being pushed aside by a family member. It just like, being married to a man whose mother never accepts you as a part of the family and calls you 'that woman'.
Approval
As the character "lao" typically means "old", it doesn't necessarily have negative connotations or always relate to being aged. It also has positive associations, indicating experience or respect, such as in the word "Laoshi" (teacher).
It's a proud word if you see it as the old foreigner with education, experience, and sophistication. I see it as a way for people to look at me as somebody who is experienced, understands the culture here, knows his way in China and can help others.
Chinese Perspectives
Laowai call each other Laowai too, or they introduce themselves as laowai.
Foreign students also called us 'Laoban (boss)' or 'Laoshi (teacher)'. They also called us 'dad' or 'mom'. These are terms that are intimate and respectful, and people feel comfortable using them.
In Which Way Do You Like To Be Called ?
So, how do you feel
when being called "Laowai"?
Welcome to share with us below!
