中文里，“八卦”這個詞源于中國古代的一套有象征意義的符號。但為什么大家用這個詞表示“小道消息或緋聞”還是個迷，而英文里通常會用gossip來表達這個意思。

The Eight Diagrams are a set of symbolic signs created in ancient China. Yes, "the Eight Diagrams", that’s the literal translation of "八卦". But why this term was used as a counterpart for the English word "gossip" is a mystery.

英文里的gossip可以這樣用：

1. Gossipy magazines appeal to people who like to follow the everyday lives of the stars.

對明星私生活感興趣的人很喜歡八卦雜志。

Gossipy magazines (八卦雜志) with gossipy news (八卦新聞) make big money from curious readers.

2. After class we usually get together to have a gossip.

課下，我們經常閑聊。

The phrase "have a gossip" means to have a chat with someone else, usually talking about everyday things.

3. Some people in the entertainment business are very gossipy.

娛樂圈的一些人很八卦。

換句話還可以說，"Some people are fond of gossip."

4. She’s becoming an old gossip.

她變成了個長舌婦。

So, girls, behave yourself, because nobody likes an old gossip. Here, "gossip" is used as a noun for someone who likes gossiping.

另外，英文里還有這些表達與八卦有關：

To talk behind one’s back: 背后議論某人

Since she started seeing her new boyfriend, everybody’s been talking behind her back.

自從她交了個新男友以來，每個人都在背后議論她。

Hearsay: 道聽途說

It may be true that his dad bought him the car; then again it may be hearsay.

他爸爸可能真給他買了輛新車，但這也可能只是道聽途說。

Talk of the town: 大家談論的焦點

Have you heard about that great new Italian restaurant? It’s the talk of the town.

你聽說新開的那個意大利餐館了嗎?現在那個餐館可是大熱門呢。