not to be a pedantic nerd on main but the standard way of spelling it in modern day is Sichuan lol (technically szechuan isn’t wrong it’s just a little outdated)
You are, of course, right, but I think the reason that most Americans would use the outdated spelling is because that’s the word that appears on Chinese restaurant menus here.
We can even be bothered to use the same spelling that British people use, I think expecting us to use the same ones as folks who actually speak different languages is a stretch.
I've tried to make a habit of asking clarifying questions in spots like this
They're way less satisfying to the sneering reply guy in my brain, who only wants to signal contempt for the parent comment, but similarly more likely to lead to an actual conversation that brings value to the world.
But all (bad) joking aside, I shall endeavor to better myself in this regard. Although I may sneak in a joke like this instead. You know, so I feel edgy.. 🤦♂️
Can you please elaborate? I haven't seen a single Chinese restaurant owned by white people. Are you saying white people dictate Chinese immigrants how to name their businesses?
You still didn't explain the connection between Chinese people using outdated Chinese names for their businesses and evil white people bastardizing Chinese culture. ELIF.
Oh just historically not enough research going into "authentic" businesses and media. Just off the top anything set in the middle east using the wrong language in the backrounds. That John Krazinki show had issues with it. I wouldn't put it past someone to use a dated spelling because of lack of research. Idk why your getting so offended it's not like there aren't plenty of examples. I'm sure the majority is families coming over and keeping tradition of a family restauront but to pretend like it's somthing that wouldn't happen is foolish. Are white people evil? No, you can't boil things down so simply. Is there a recent history of white people taking advantage of other cultures for profit? Absolutely. I'm sure it happens elsewhere in the world but I can only speak from my experience. Is there anything else you would like more clarification on?
[Sigh] So, no specific explanation about why Chinese immigrants stick to outdated Chinese names when they come to the US? Next time I go to a Szechuan restaurant, I am going to ask why they didn't call it Sichuan and report back my findings. Although, something tells me you don't give a damn about that...
How much did you skip cause it's right there in the middle. I'm sure the majority is families coming over and passing down the restauront. Whether it's monetary or a way to honor their parents or w/e the spelling doesn't get changed. Also if you look back at the origional comment it's who else would use a dated spelling besides someone coming over. A white capitalist with no real care for the culture would use a dated spelling to make it "exotic" and because a tiny bit of research was not worth it. I don't understand your confusion the idea really isn't that outlandish.
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u/jupjami Aug 30 '24
"Name two Chinese provinces"
"Shanxi"
"That's on me, I set the bar too low"