This dictionary serves as a comprehensive reference tool for understanding the complex political landscape and international relations of China from 1949 to the present. Author Chris Ogden, a scholar specializing in Asian politics, utilizes his academic background to curate a lexicon that clarifies the terminology defining China's governance, ideological frameworks, and global diplomatic posture. The work provides a structured approach to navigating the specific vocabulary required to analyze the Chinese state's internal operations and external engagements.

Experts and students of international relations frequently cite this work as a reliable, accessible resource for clarifying the specific jargon associated with Chinese governance. Readers note that the dictionary's concise entries provide a necessary foundation for navigating the dense political discourse surrounding modern China.