- the Shanghai of old, with its foreign settlements
- (fig.) a bustling, cosmopolitan city
Generated: This meaning refers to the historical context of Shanghai when it was a hub for international trade and culture, characterized by its foreign concessions.
Historically, the Shanghai of old was a place full of exotic charm.
Generated: This figurative meaning describes any vibrant city that has a mix of cultures, nationalities, and a dynamic lifestyle, similar to the diverse environment of old Shanghai.
Beijing is referred to by many as a modern bustling, cosmopolitan city.