裙带关系 (qún dài guān jì) — (derogatory) nepotism, cronyism (using family connections for personal gain)
Definition
A set phrase meaning 'nepotism, cronyism' — using family or close ties to get jobs, promotions, or favors, especially in a workplace. Always carries a negative tone, implying unfairness over merit.
noun
(derogatory) nepotismcronyism (using family connections for personal gain)
Examples
- 裙带关系，。Zhè jiā gōng sī de qún dài guān jì wèn tí hěn yán zhòng, zhēn zhèng yǒu cái huá de rén hěn nán shēng zhí.This company has a serious problem with nepotism — truly talented people find it hard to get promoted.
- ，裙带关系。Tā méi yǒu zhēn cái shí xué, quán kào qún dài guān jì dāng shàng le chù zhǎng.He has no real ability; he became a division head entirely through nepotism.
- 裙带关系，。Zhǐ yào xiāo chú qún dài guān jì, qǐ yè jiù néng xī yǐn gèng duō yōu xiù rén cái.As long as they eliminate nepotism, the company can attract more outstanding talent.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.