宝贝
bǎobèi
bao bei is the English translation for the Chinese term of endearment 宝贝 (bǎobèi).
宝贝 is an endearing term used for a child or a romantic partner, similar to calling someone darling, baby or sweetheart in English. While it is often used for people, it can also be used as a noun to refer to a precious object or a treasure.
What does it mean word for word?
The term is composed of 宝 (bǎo), meaning treasure or precious and 贝 (bèi), meaning shell, which was historically used as currency or treasure.
Which one should you use?
While 宝贝 is used for romantic partners or children, the term 宝宝 (bǎobao) is more specifically used for infants or very young children.
How do you pronounce it?
bǎobèi
Did you know?
- In many Chinese live-streaming commerce contexts, hosts refer to their viewers as 宝贝 (bǎobèi) to build an instant sense of intimacy and loyalty. This transforms a private term of endearment into a mass-market marketing tool.
- In some contexts, 宝贝 (bǎobèi) can be used sarcastically to refer to a person who is being particularly troublesome or demanding, similar to calling someone a 'handful'.
- The word 贝 (bèi) refers to shells because cowrie shells were used as one of the earliest forms of currency in ancient China.
Examples in context
- 宝贝，快过来。Bǎobèi, kuài guòlái.Baby, come here quickly.
- 你是我的宝贝。Nǐ shì wǒ de bǎobèi.You are my darling.
- 这个小宝贝真可爱。Zhège xiǎo bǎobèi zhēn kě'ài.This little baby is so cute.
Example conversation
A couple is talking at home.
- 伟 Wei宝贝，你今天累吗？Bǎobèi, nǐ jīntiān lèi ma?Baby, are you tired today?
- 佳怡 Jiayi有一点，但看到你就好了。Yǒu yìdiǎn, dàn kàndào nǐ jiù hǎo le.A little, but I feel better seeing you.
- 伟 Wei那我给你做杯咖啡。Nà wǒ gěi nǐ zuò bēi kāfēi.Then I will make you a cup of coffee.
- 佳怡 Jiayi谢谢你，伟。Xièxiè nǐ, Wěi.Thank you, Wei.
