The meaning of “PK” in Chinese

If you’re in China or watching a Chinese series on Netflix, you may have heard the weird word “PK” fitted in between other ‘real’ Chinese words. It’s pronounced as “Peeee-kay” which is not a typical Chinese Pinyin sound. In fact, it sounds far from Chinese, which is true.

The origin of “PK” is a bit debated but it probably comes from computer games — just like YYDS: “Player killing”, but the origin could also have been “Penalty Kick” or “Punch and Kick”. It was popularized over a decade ago in China’s version of Idols when people had to vote for their favorite singer. Both adults and kids use this, and even the computer brand Acer has used it on posters in China.

It’s an extremely informal word but not rude. So feel free to use it online or in informal situations!

Sample sentences:

• 如果不喜欢那PK吧
  Rúguǒ bù xǐhuān nà PK ba
  If you don’t like it, then let’s battle it out
• 要不要跟我PK？
  yào bùyào gēn wǒ PK?
  Do you want to battle with me?
• 谁最快？PK！
  Shéi zuì kuài? PK!
  Who is the fastest? Battle!

Don’t use PK in Chinese like this:

• I saw an amazing football match yesterday
  我昨天看了一个特别好看的足球PK
  Wǒ zuótiān kànle yīgè tèbié hǎokàn de zúqiú PK

This is not correct!

Also, PK in Chinese shouldn’t be used as a substitute for “Versus”. Just use VS:

• 特朗普 VS 拜登
  Tèlǎngpǔ VS Bàidēng
  Trump VS Biden

For VS, you can also use 对战Duìzhàn, this is more formal:

• 中国队对战荷兰队
  Zhōngguó duì duìzhàn hélán duì
  Chinese team battles Netherlands team

PK Meaning ? Exploring This Popular Acronym

“PK” is a common acronym that has multiple meanings depending on the context. This quick guide will overview the various PK meanings and how to use this abbreviation correctly.

Introduction

The letters “PK” are used as an acronym for several different terms and phrases. Some common meanings include “player kill,” “player killer,” “psi-kinetic,” “PrimaryKey,” and “peak.” The exact definition depends on the subject matter and context. Let’s explore the origins and uses of PK as an abbreviation.

Player Kill/Player Killer

One of the most common uses of “PK” is in online gaming, where it stands for “player kill” or “player killer.” In multiplayer games, PK refers to when one player attacks and kills another player’s character without provocation. This is sometimes considered objectionable behavior and may be against the rules on certain servers. PKers, or player killers, are those who frequently engage in player-vs-player attacks and kills.

Psi-Kinetic/Psychokinetic

In paranormal or psychic circles, PK is used as an abbreviation for “psi-kinetic” or “psychokinetic” abilities. Psi refers to psychic phenomena while kinetic refers to causing physical changes or events. Therefore, someone with PK abilities can purportedly manipulate objects or energy with the power of their mind. This meaning of PK emerged from research into parapsychology and psychic abilities in the 1930s.

PrimaryKey

PK is sometimes used as shorthand for “primary key” in computer programming and database management. A primary key is a unique identifier used to quickly locate specific records in a table or database. PKs allow efficient lookups and joins between database tables.

Peak

In various technical and scientific contexts, PK may stand for “peak,” referring to the highest point or maximum value in a set of data. For example, PK velocity would refer to the maximum velocity achieved.