Mandarin Chinese, also known as Putonghua, is the official language of China and is spoken by over a billion people worldwide. If you’re interested in learning Mandarin or simply want to expand your vocabulary, it’s essential to know how to express basic concepts like “close” in various contexts. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say “close” in Mandarin, providing you with tips, examples, and regional variations where relevant.
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Formal Ways to Say “Close”
When it comes to formal situations, such as professional settings or formal events, it’s crucial to use polite and proper language. Here are several formal ways to say “close” in Mandarin:
1. 关闭 (guānbì)
This is the most common and straightforward translation for “close” in a formal context. It can refer to closing a door, window, or any other physical object. For example:
请把门关闭。(Qǐng bǎ mén guānbì.)
Please close the door.
2. 关上 (guān shàng)
Similar to “关闭” (guānbì), “关上” (guān shàng) is another way to say “close” formally. It is specifically used when referring to closing a door, window, or other similar objects. For instance:
我们需要关上这扇窗户。(Wǒmen xūyào guān shàng zhè shàn chuānghu.)
We need to close this window.
3. 截至 (jiézhì)
While not a direct translation for “close,” “截至” (jiézhì) is often used in formal contexts to indicate a specific closing time or deadline. For example:
请在明天下午五点之前完成报告。(Qǐng zài míngtiān xiàwǔ wǔ diǎn zhīqián wánchéng bàogào.)
Please complete the report before 5 PM tomorrow.报名截至日期是下周五。(Bàomíng jiézhì rìqī shì xiàzhōu wǔ.)
The registration deadline is next Friday.
Informal Ways to Say “Close”
In informal or casual situations, like talking with friends or family, you can use less formal language. Here are some common informal ways to say “close” in Mandarin:
1. 关掉 (guāndiào)
When you want to ask someone to turn off or close an appliance or electronic device, such as the TV or computer, you can use “关掉” (guāndiào). For example:
请把电视关掉。(Qǐng bǎ diànshì guāndiào.)
Please turn off the TV.
2. 关上/关上去 (guān shàng/guān shàng qù)
These two phrases are commonly used in informal settings to mean “close” or “shut.” They can be used interchangeably to refer to closing a door, window, or similar objects. For instance:
我要先关上窗帘。(Wǒ yào xiān guān shàng chuānglián.)
I want to close the curtains first.
3. 停止 (tíngzhǐ)
Although “停止” (tíngzhǐ) primarily means “stop,” it can also be used informally to tell someone to close or shut something down. For example:
请停止播放音乐。(Qǐng tíngzhǐ bōfàng yīnyuè.)
Please stop playing music.
Regional Variations
Mandarin Chinese has numerous regional variations where certain dialects may use different terms to express “close.” However, the formal and informal ways discussed above are widely understood and used across most Mandarin-speaking regions. It’s always beneficial to familiarize yourself with the local dialect if you plan to visit a specific area in China or interact with native speakers from a particular region.
Summary
In summary, knowing how to say “close” in Mandarin is essential for effective communication in both formal and informal situations. In formal contexts, “关闭” (guānbì) and “关上” (guān shàng) are the primary expressions used, while “截至” (jiézhì) indicates specific closing times and deadlines. For informal settings, you can use “关掉” (guāndiào), “关上” (guān shàng), “关上去” (guān shàng qù), and “停止” (tíngzhǐ) to convey the meaning of “close” more casually. Remember to adapt your language depending on the formality of your environment and region.
