中文里，“八卦”这个词源于中国古代的一套有象征意义的符号。但为什么大家用这个词表示“小道消息或绯闻”还是个迷，而英文里通常会用gossip来表达这个意思。
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可以这样用：
1. Gossipy magazines appeal to people who like to follow the everyday lives of the stars.
对明星私生活感兴趣的人很喜欢八卦杂志。
Gossipy magazines (八卦杂志) with gossipy news (八卦新闻) make big money from curious readers.
2. After class we usually get together to have a gossip.
课下，我们经常闲聊。
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.
娱乐圈的一些人很八卦。
换句话还可以说，"Some people are fond of gossip."
4. She's becoming an old gossip.
她变成了个长舌妇。
So, girls, behave yourself, because nobody likes an old gossip. Here, "gossip" is used as a noun for someone who likes gossiping.
另外，英文里还有这些表达与八卦有关：
To talk behind one's back: 背后议论某人
Since she started seeing her new boyfriend, everybody's been talking behind her back.
自从她交了个新男友以来，每个人都在背后议论她。
Hearsay: 道听途说
It may be true that his dad bought him the car; then again it may be hearsay.
他爸爸可能真给他买了辆新车，但这也可能只是道听途说。
Talk of the town: 大家谈论的焦点
Have you heard about that great new Italian restaurant? It's the talk of the town.
你听说新开的那个意大利餐馆了吗?现在那个餐馆可是大热门呢。
