二百五

二百五

Literally means:

250

Actually means:

tupid person; dabbler

In the past when silver was the currency in the market, 500 pieces of silver were usually put into one sealed package. Ban feng, (half sealed) package is therefore 250 pieces.

Since in the Chinese language, "半封 half sealed" is homophonic to "半疯 half crazy", two hundred and fifty has been used to refer to rather silly or hotheaded people. It also refers to those with a limited knowledge or understanding. It connotes a sense of irony. Derogatory.

在使用银子年代，五百两为一封，二百五十两即半封。这“半封”的谐音是“半疯”。

于是用二百五指有些傻气，做事卤莽的人。现在也指对知识知道得不多或理解不深的人。常含有讥讽的意味。具有贬义色彩。