If you’re planning to visit China or simply have an interest in the Chinese language, knowing how to say basic colors is essential. In this guide, we will explore how to say the color “blue” in China, including formal and informal ways. While regional variations exist, we will focus on the commonly used terms. So, let’s dive right in and discover how to say “blue” in China!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Blue” in Mandarin Chinese
Mandarin Chinese is the official language of China and is spoken by the majority of the population. Here are some formal ways to express the color “blue” in Mandarin:
1. 青 (qīng)
The word “青” (qīng) encompasses a broader range of colors, including blue. It denotes a shade of blue or green and is often used to describe natural scenery. For example:
他正在欣赏那片青山。 (Tā zhèngzài xīnshǎng nà piàn qīngshān.)
“He is admiring the blue/green mountains.”
Keep in mind that “青” (qīng) can also refer to “green,” so the context is crucial in determining the exact shade of color being described.
2. 蓝 (lán)
When specifically referring to the color “blue,” the term “蓝” (lán) is commonly used. For instance:
她穿着一件蓝色的裙子。 (Tā chuānzhuó yī jiàn lán sè de qúnzi.)
“She is wearing a blue dress.”
“蓝” (lán) is a more precise way to signify the color blue and is widely understood in Mandarin Chinese.
Informal Ways to Say “Blue” in Mandarin Chinese
In informal settings or everyday conversations, Chinese speakers often use alternative terms to describe the color “blue.” Here are a few commonly used informal expressions:
1. 蓝色 (lán sè)
“蓝色” (lán sè) is the informal way to say “blue” in Chinese. This term is simply an extension of the formal term “蓝” (lán) and translates directly as “blue color.” For example:
他喜欢蓝色的汽车。 (Tā xǐhuān lán sè de qìchē.)
“He likes blue cars.”
Using “蓝色” (lán sè) adds emphasis on the specific color being discussed, providing clarity in informal conversations.
2. 蓝色的 (lán sè de)
Another way to express the color “blue” casually is by using “蓝色的” (lán sè de), which translates to “the blue.” This addition of “的” (de) creates a possessive structure. An example usage can be:
你看那辆蓝色的自行车。 (Nǐ kàn nà liàng lán sè de zìxíngchē.)
“Look at that blue bicycle.”
The informal style of “蓝色的” (lán sè de) is often used in day-to-day conversations to describe objects that are blue in color, emphasizing their specific shade.
Regional Variations
While Mandarin Chinese is the standard language across China, various dialects exist throughout the country. Some regions may have their unique ways of saying “blue.” However, these regional variations are not widely known or used outside of their respective areas. Therefore, for general communication purposes, it is sufficient to stick to the aforementioned formal and informal terms.
Conclusion
Now that you have learned how to say “blue” in China, you can confidently discuss colors in Mandarin Chinese. Remember to use “青” (qīng) or “蓝” (lán) for formal contexts, while “蓝色” (lán sè) or “蓝色的” (lán sè de) work well for informal conversations. Language is constantly evolving, so embrace the versatility and richness of Chinese when exploring different shades of blue!
