‘Empty nest youth’: China phrases that reflect country’s rapid progress, social challenges

In part one of a two-part series, the Post takes a look at some of the descriptions and phrases which have arisen in modern-day China.

These highlight the dramatic changes that mainland society has undergone in recent times and reflect the very real struggles that people face as they strive for a better life, often in very challenging circumstances.

Empty nest youth

Empty nest youth, or kong chao qing nian, refers to young people in China who are single and live alone.

The term originated from a promotional slogan by a film company, likening these young people to lonely birds in an empty nest.

More and more young people are moving to big cities for career opportunities and want privacy and independence.