Two young people talk at a matchmaking conference in Shenzhen, South China's Guangdong province on Jan 3, 2016. [Photo/IC]

Hard to find a partner in a narrow life circle

There are reasons behind Chinese parents' efforts. According to data from Jiangsu civil affairs department, the average age of first marriage for locals is 32.4, and 30.4 for capital Nanjing. In contrast, for the elder generation, their children were already in primary school when they reached 30.

But young people feel wronged, as they believe a narrow life circle is the biggest hurdle for them to find a partner. More than three quarters argue that they travel between home and work place every day and barely have a chance to meet members of the opposite sex.

Even if they have a girlfriend or boyfriend, it is not easy to get married. 68 percent of people think their "partner or partner's family is overly demanding", which leads to breakups.

Communication instead of escape

Facing such pressure, 87 percent of respondents said they understand their parents. But only 28 percent choose to talk with their parents on the issue. More than 70 percent keep silent or escape the topic.

An official with Jiangsu civil affairs department said that communication is the best way to respond to parents' push.

Young people in fast-paced cities face more pressure than their elder generation and it is reasonable to marry late, the official said, adding that young people should explain the situation to their parents and show that they make an effort in looking for a partner.

Related: Half of young Chinese date before age of 18