班味 (bān wèi)

“班味 (Bān wèi), The smell of work” describes the unique lifestyle and state of mind that comes with being a working professional. It typically refers to signs of fatigue, casual dress, and a general sense of weariness that many office workers experience.

For instance, “她今天看起来特别有班味 (Tā jīntiān kàn qǐlái tèbié yǒu bān wèi), She looks particularly work-fatigued today” might be said about someone who appears especially tired and worn out from work. “你的班味越来越足了 (Nǐ de bān wèi yuè lái yuè zúle), Your smell of work is getting stronger” can describe someone who increasingly embodies the typical traits of a busy professional.

This term humorously captures the common experiences of working life, emphasizing the universal challenges of balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being.

Source:eChineseLearning