'Qiáo wù' literally combines 侨 (qiáo), meaning 'overseas Chinese' or 'Chinese diaspora', and 务 (wù), meaning 'affairs', 'matters', or 'services'. Together, the term refers to the official administrative and supportive work conducted by Chinese government agencies—especially the State Council’s Overseas Chinese Affairs Office—to serve, engage with, and protect the interests of ethnic Chinese living abroad. It encompasses policies on dual nationality (though China does not recognize it), investment facilitation, cultural exchange, education support for overseas Chinese children, and assistance during emergencies like natural disasters or political unrest.

This term is formal and institutional, used primarily in governmental, diplomatic, and academic contexts—not in casual speech. It reflects China’s long-standing emphasis on maintaining ties with its global diaspora as part of national development strategy and soft power outreach. While 'overseas Chinese' (huáqiáo) refers to the people themselves, 'qiáo wù' specifically denotes the organized state function directed toward them.