弟子 dìzǐ disciple
disciple; follower
How to remember 弟子: 弟 younger brother + 子 child = disciple.
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How it is used
- A disciple or student of a master - 孔子的弟子 (Kǒngzǐ de dìzǐ) Confucius's disciples; 关门弟子 (guānmén dìzǐ) a master's last/favorite pupil.
- Traditional flavor: martial arts, crafts, religion, classical scholarship - a lineage relationship, not a modern classroom.
- Contrast 学生 (xuésheng), the ordinary word for 'student'; 弟子 implies apprenticeship under a master.