What Does “大吉大利 The Orange Very Big” Mean During Chinese New Year?
Chinese New Year is full of traditions, delicious treats, and funny phrases. One of the quirkiest expressions you’ll hear is “大吉大利 The Orange Very Big.” But what does it really mean, especially to us kids?
Why Do We Say “大吉大利 The Orange Very Big” at CNY?
In the festive chaos of Chinese New Year, “大吉大利 The Orange Very Big” is a phrase that always makes us giggle. It’s a play on words, mixing Mandarin and English to wish for great fortune and prosperity. “大吉大利” (dà jí dà lì) literally means “great luck and great profit.” Adding “The Orange Very Big” is a humorous twist, since oranges are symbols of good luck and abundance during the New Year celebrations.
How Do Singaporean Kids React to This Phrase?
Imagine this: You’re at your relatives’ house, holding a pair of mandarin oranges, and you hear someone say, “大吉大利 The Orange Very Big!” You can’t help but chuckle. It’s like our secret code for good luck, wrapped in a layer of playful humor. We kids love it because it turns a traditional greeting into something funny and memorable.
What’s the Story Behind “大吉大利 The Orange Very Big”?
The phrase is a perfect example of how Singaporeans love to blend languages and cultures. “大吉大利” is a classic Chinese New Year greeting wishing prosperity and good fortune. The addition of “The Orange Very Big” is pure Singaporean humor, poking fun at the literal translation of traditions and the visual of holding large oranges as a sign of good luck.
How Do We Kids Use This Phrase During CNY?
During Chinese New Year, we exchange mandarin oranges with family and friends, saying “大吉大利 The Orange Very Big!” It’s our way of adding a bit of humor to the formalities. We also use it to tease each other when someone gets extra-large oranges, saying they’re sure to have an extra lucky year!
Why Is This Phrase So Popular Among Kids?
We love “大吉大利 The Orange Very Big” because it breaks the monotony of traditional greetings and brings a smile to everyone’s face. It’s a reminder that while traditions are important, having fun and making each other laugh is equally crucial, especially during festive times.
