老祖宗 (lǎo zǔ zōng) — ancestor(s); forefather(s) (with a reverential tone)
Definition
Literally 'old ancestor' — a reverent, honorific way to refer to one's forebears, more elevated than the plain 祖先. Often used in cultural or traditional contexts (e.g. customs, heritage, family history).
noun
ancestor(s)forefather(s) (with a reverential tone)
Measure word · 位
Examples
- 老祖宗。Zhè shì lǎo zǔ zōng liú xià lái de chuán tǒng.This is a tradition passed down by our ancestors.
- 老祖宗。Wǒ men jiā de lǎo zǔ zōng shì cóng nán fāng bān lái de.Our family's ancestors moved here from the south.
- ，老祖宗。Guò nián shí, dà jiā dōu huì jì bài lǎo zǔ zōng.During the New Year, everyone pays respects to their ancestors.
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