兄弟
xiōngdì/ɕi̯ʊŋ⁵⁵ ti⁵¹/
The English word "bro" can be translated into Chinese as 兄弟 (xiōngdì).
兄弟 is used to refer to a male comrade or friend, or someone who shares your ideals. While it literally refers to brothers, it is commonly used colloquially to address a male friend or a close male acquaintance, similar to the English terms "bro", "brother" or "buddy".
Meaning: male comrade or friend, one who shares one’s ideals (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term is composed of 兄 (older brother) and 弟 (younger brother).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In Northern China, particularly Beijing, the term 哥们儿 (gēmenr) is a very common informal alternative used for addressing a male friend.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The term 哥们儿 is specifically noted as a common colloquialism in Northern China, especially in Beijing.
How does it change in a sentence?
You can create the plural form 兄弟们 by adding the suffix 们 (men) to 兄弟. This form is used when addressing a group of male friends, such as when saying "Hey guys" or "Hey bros".
How do you pronounce it?
The romanization is xiōngdì. The IPA is /ɕi̯ʊŋ⁵⁵ ti⁵¹/.
Did you know?
- While 兄弟 implies a bond of brotherhood, it is often used in 'Jianghu' culture to refer to members of a martial arts underworld or organized social circles.
- In ancient Chinese kinship systems, 兄弟 was not just a term of affection but a strict legal and social category that defined inheritance rights and duties within a family.
- In modern internet slang, the term 兄弟 is sometimes used ironically or sarcastically in memes to address someone who has just made a clumsy mistake.
Examples in context
- 兄弟，你到底姓什么啊？Bro, what's your last name?This sentence shows how to use 兄弟 when addressing a male acquaintance.Tatoeba #4835903 by sadhen, translation #4844603 by pig8322
- 我们是过命的兄弟。Wǒmen shì guòmìng de xiōngdì.We are brothers who have faced death together.
- 他是我最铁的兄弟。Tā shì wǒ zuì tiě de xiōngdì.He is my closest brother.
Example conversation
Zihan is asking Haoran for help with a heavy box.
- 梓涵 Zihan浩然，你能帮我搬这个箱子吗？hàorán, nǐ néng bāng wǒ bān zhège xiāngzi ma?Haoran, can you help me move this box?
- 浩然 Haoran没问题，交给我吧！méi wèntí, jiāo gěi wǒ ba!No problem, leave it to me!
- 梓涵 Zihan太谢谢你了，好兄弟！tài xièxiè nǐ le, hǎo xiōngdì!Thank you so much, bro!
- 浩然 Haoran客气什么，咱们之间不用谢。kèqi shénme, zánmen zhījiān bùyòng xiè.Don't be so formal, no need to thank me.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 兄弟, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
