culture
From Shanghai dialect for mahjong partners (牌搭子). Spread nationally on Xiaohongshu in 2023 as young urbanites, moving cities often and short on deep bonds, sought 'precision companionship' - one person per activity, no wider social obligation. Sociologists linked it to work mobility, atomization and friendship fatigue. Named a 2023 Top 10 buzzword by 《咬文嚼字》.
usage
Always takes a modifier: 饭搭子 (meal), 旅游搭子 (travel), 健身搭子 (gym), 上班搭子 (work), 考研搭子 (grad-exam prep). Pairing with a verb: 找搭子 'look for a buddy.'
