Are you interested in learning how to say “block” in Chinese? Whether you want to communicate effectively while traveling in China, expand your language skills, or simply satisfy your curiosity, this guide will provide you with all the information you need. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say “block” in Chinese, offering tips, examples, and even regional variations if necessary. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Block in Chinese
When it comes to using formal Chinese expressions, there are a few different words you can use to convey the meaning of “block.” Here are some commonly used phrases:
- 阻碍 (zǔ ài): This is a commonly used formal word in Chinese that means “to obstruct” or “to impede.” It can be used in various contexts when referring to a physical or metaphorical blockage. For example, you can say:
交通堵塞阻碍了我们的行程。(Jiāotōng dǔsè zǔài le wǒmen de xíngchéng.)
Traffic congestion blocked our journey.This phrase can be used in both written and spoken Chinese.
- 拦住 (lán zhù): If you want to express the idea of physically blocking someone or something, you can use this phrase. It means “to block” or “to stop.” For instance:
我试图拦住他的去路，但他还是逃走了。(Wǒ shìtú lán zhù tā de qùlù, dàn tā háishì táozǒu le.)
I tried to block his way, but he still managed to escape.This phrase is mostly used in spoken Chinese.
Informal Ways to Say Block in Chinese
When it comes to informal Chinese expressions, people often use more casual phrases or slang. Here are a couple of examples of how to say “block” informally in Chinese:
- 挡住 (dǎng zhù): This phrase is commonly used in everyday conversations and means “to block” or “to hinder.” It can be used in various contexts. For example:
他挡住了门口，不让任何人进入。(Tā dǎng zhù le ménkǒu, bù ràng rènhé rén jìnrù.)
He blocked the entrance and didn’t let anyone in.This expression is widely used in both written and spoken Chinese and is suitable for most informal situations.
- 堵塞 (dǔ sè): Although not as casual as the previous phrase, “堵塞” is still considered less formal than the phrases mentioned in the formal section. It means “to block up” or “to clog.” For instance:
下雨堵塞了排水系统。(Xià yǔ dǔsè le páishuǐ xìtǒng.)
The rain blocked up the drainage system.This phrase is more commonly used in written Chinese or in slightly more formal situations.
Regional Variations
In Chinese, there are some regional variations in the way “block” is expressed. Here are a couple of examples:
- In Cantonese, a widely spoken dialect in southern China, the word “block” can be translated as 擋 (dong6).
- In Taiwanese Mandarin, another variation is commonly used, which is 封鎖 (fēng suǒ). It carries the same meaning as “to block” in English.
These regional variations may come in handy if you find yourself in specific areas of China or interacting with people who speak those dialects.
By now, you should have a good understanding of how to say “block” in Chinese, both formally and informally. Remember to practice these phrases to improve your fluency and confidence. Happy learning!
