There’s something truly magical about being able to express beauty in different languages. In this guide, we’ll explore the ways to say “beautiful” in Taiwanese, both formally and informally. Whether you’re planning to visit Taiwan, have Taiwanese friends, or simply want to expand your linguistic knowledge, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information, tips, examples, and regional variations to help you navigate the rich vocabulary of Taiwanese.
Table of Contents
Formal Approaches:
When it comes to formal expressions of beauty in Taiwanese, the following phrases are commonly used:
1. Beautiful (Formal): 美麗 (Bí-lē)
In formal contexts, the term “美麗” (bí-lē) serves as a general translation for “beautiful” in Taiwanese. This phrase is commonly used when describing aesthetically pleasing things or events, such as beautiful landscapes, breathtaking sunsets, or elegant architecture.
Example:
那座古老的寺廟真是美麗的 (nā tsōo kó-lāu ê sī-biū chhin-sī bí-lē ê)
Translation: That ancient temple is truly beautiful.
2. Gorgeous (Formal): 漂亮 (Piau-liáu)
When you want to emphasize someone’s physical appearance, especially in a formal manner, you can use the term “漂亮” (piau-liáu). This term can also be applied to objects or places that have an exceptionally pleasing appearance.
Example:
這件禮服真是漂亮的 (tsit kiānn lāi-puh chin-sī piau-liáu ê)
Translation: This dress is truly gorgeous.
Informal Approaches:
In informal settings or when addressing friends and family, Taiwanese has its own charming expressions for describing beauty. Here are a few common informal phrases:
1. Beautiful (Informal): 靚 (Liáng)
The term “靚” (liáng) is commonly used in colloquial Taiwanese to express beauty in an informal and friendly manner. It is frequently used to compliment someone’s appearance or to describe something attractive or visually appealing.
Example:
今晚你穿這件衣服很靚 (kīm-ban lín tsuānn tsit kiānn i-puh hun liáng)
Translation: You look beautiful in this outfit tonight.
2. Pretty (Informal): 漂亮 (Piau-liáu)
Although “漂亮” (piau-liáu) was previously introduced as a formal term, it is also widely used in informal contexts. This versatile expression is frequently employed by friends and loved ones to compliment each other’s appearance.
Example:
你的新髮型好漂亮 (lí ê sin huat-heng hó piau-liáu)
Translation: Your new hairstyle looks really pretty.
Regional Variations:
While the phrases mentioned above serve as standard ways to express beauty in Taiwanese, it’s important to note that there might be regional variations. Taiwanese, like many languages, may have unique words or alternative pronunciations across different regions. However, given the widespread nature of Mandarin Chinese in Taiwan, the phrases explored above are widely understood and used throughout the country.
Conclusion
We have now covered both formal and informal ways to say “beautiful” in Taiwanese. From the formal elegance of “美麗” (bí-lē) to the friendly and charming expressions like “靚” (liáng) and “漂亮” (piau-liáu), you now have the tools to express beauty in various contexts. Whether you choose to use the formal or informal phrases, your attempt to express admiration in Taiwanese will undoubtedly be appreciated by native speakers.
