‘相亲’ literally means ‘mutual intimacy’ or ‘mutual closeness’, combining 相 (xiāng, ‘mutual’ or ‘each other’) and 亲 (qīn, ‘intimate’, ‘close’, or ‘relative’). In modern usage, it refers specifically to the traditional Chinese practice of going on a blind date arranged by family members, matchmakers, or friends — often with marriage as a long-term goal. Unlike casual dating, 相亲 is typically purposeful, structured, and socially embedded in family expectations.

This practice remains common across China, especially among young adults in urban areas pressured by parental concerns about ‘leftover’ status (sheng nü or guang gun). While some view it pragmatically, others find it awkward or outdated. The verb can be used both transitively (e.g., 相亲对象) and intransitively (e.g., 他下周去相亲), and often appears in contexts involving family discussion, preparation, and post-date evaluation.