Learning how to say “couple” in Chinese is a useful skill for anyone interested in the language and culture. Whether you’re visiting China, have Chinese friends, or simply want to expand your vocabulary, understanding how to express “couple” will come in handy. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to say “couple” in Chinese, providing you with tips, examples, and even a few regional variations. Let’s get started!
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Formal Ways to Say “Couple” in Chinese
If you prefer a more formal tone, there are a few ways to express the concept of “couple” in Chinese:
1. 夫妇 (fūfù)
The term “夫妇” is commonly used to refer to a married couple in a formal context. It emphasizes the husband and wife relationship and is respectful in nature.
For example: 他们是一对幸福的夫妇。(Tāmen shì yīduì xìngfú de fūfù.)
Translation: They are a happy couple.
2. 伉俪 (kànglì)
In more official settings, such as legal documents or formal speeches, the term “伉俪” may be used. It represents a couple within the context of marriage and carries a sense of dignity.
For example: 这对伉俪已经结婚五年。(Zhè duì kànglì yǐjīng jiéhūn wǔ nián.)
Translation: This couple has been married for five years.
Informal Ways to Say “Couple” in Chinese
If you prefer a more casual or colloquial way to express “couple” in Chinese, there are a couple of options:
1. 一对 (yīduì)
“一对” is a common way to say “couple” in everyday conversation. It is widely used and does not carry any formal implications. This term can be applied to any pair or set of things.
For example: 我们是一对快乐的夫妻。(Wǒmen shì yīduì kuàilè de fūqī.)
Translation: We are a happy couple.
2. 一对儿 (yīduìr)
Adding the character “儿” after “一对” conveys a sense of warmth and familiarity, commonly used among friends and family members.
For example: 他们俩是一对儿幸福的恋人。(Tāmen liǎ shì yīduìr xìngfú de liànrén.)
Translation: They are a happy couple in love.
Regional Variations for “Couple” in Chinese
China has numerous dialects and regional variations, and some areas have unique ways of expressing “couple.” Here are a couple examples:
1. 男女朋友 (nánnǚ péngyǒu)
In certain regions, especially in northern China, people may use the term “男女朋友” to refer to a couple in a romantic relationship. This term literally translates to “male and female friends.”
2. 爱人 (àiren)
In some southern regions, particularly in Guangdong province, the word “爱人” is commonly used to refer to a couple, emphasizing love and affection.
Conclusion
Learning how to say “couple” in Chinese is essential for anyone interested in the language and culture. We have explored both formal and informal ways to express this concept, with examples and even a few regional variations. Remember, “夫妇” and “伉俪” are formal options, while “一对” and “一对儿” are more casual and commonly used in everyday language. Regional variations, such as “男女朋友” and “爱人,” add further richness to the language. So, next time you want to refer to a couple in Chinese, you’ll have a variety of options at your disposal.
Start practicing and enjoy using these phrases with your Chinese-speaking friends or during your future travels! Learning how to say “couple” in Chinese will undoubtedly enhance your language skills and deepen your cultural understanding.
