Chinese, being a rich and diverse language, offers various ways to express the word “cousin.” In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways, providing examples and tips along the way. While there aren’t significant regional variations in this context, we’ll highlight any relevant differences. So let’s dive into the world of Chinese kinship terminology!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Cousin in Chinese
1. 表弟/表姐（biǎo dì/biǎo jiě） – Male/Male and Female Cousins from the Father’s Side: These terms are used for cousins who are younger than you and have the same surname as you. For example:
我从父亲这边有一个表弟。(Wǒ cóng fùqīn zhè biān yǒu yī gè biǎo dì.)
I have a male cousin from my father’s side.
2. 表妹（biǎo mèi） – Female Cousin from the Father’s Side: This term is used specifically for female cousins who are younger than you on your father’s side. For example:
我和我的表妹关系非常好。(Wǒ hé wǒ de biǎo mèi guānxi fēicháng hǎo.)
I have a very close relationship with my female cousin.
3. 表哥/表姐（biǎo gē/biǎo jiě） – Male/Male and Female Cousins from the Mother’s Side: These terms are used for cousins who are older than you and have the same surname as you. For example:
她是我妈妈这边的表姐。(Tā shì wǒ māmā zhè biān de biǎo jiě.)
She is my cousin from my mother’s side.
4. 表弟/表妹（biǎo dì/biǎo mèi） – Male and Female Cousins from the Mother’s Side: These terms refer to cousins who are younger than you on your mother’s side. For example:
他是我妈妈这边的表弟。(Tā shì wǒ māmā zhè biān de biǎo dì.)
He is my cousin from my mother’s side.
5. 堂弟/堂妹（táng dì/táng mèi） – Male and Female Cousins from the Father’s or Mother’s Side: These terms are used for cousins who share the same surname but are not directly related. For example:
我的堂弟很有趣。(Wǒ de táng dì hěn yǒuqù.)
My cousin (not directly related) is very interesting.
Informal Ways to Say Cousin in Chinese
1. 表哥/哥哥/姐姐（biǎo gē/gē ge/jiě jie） – Male Cousins: These terms are used colloquially to address male cousins, regardless of whether they are older or younger. For example:
我表哥很聪明。(Wǒ biǎo gē hěn cōngmíng.)
My male cousin is very intelligent.
2. 表弟/弟弟/妹妹（biǎo dì/dì di/mèi mei） – Male and Female Cousins: These terms are used informally for addressing cousins, regardless of their gender. For example:
我弟弟是我最好的朋友。(Wǒ dì di shì wǒ zuì hǎo de péngyǒu.)
My cousin (male or female) is my best friend.
Tips for Using Cousin Terminology in Chinese
1. Considering age: It’s important to use the correct term based on the age of your cousin. The terms “表哥/表姐” are used for older cousins, while “表弟/表妹” are used for younger cousins. If the age difference is not significant, choose the term based on whether they are male or female.
2. Clarify the side: When mentioning a cousin, specifying whether they are from your father’s or mother’s side helps provide clarity and avoid confusion.
3. Close relationships: To emphasize close bonds with your cousin, you can use the phrase “亲如兄弟姐妹” (qīn rú xiōng dì jiě mèi), which means “as close as brothers and sisters” in English.
4. Adapt to informal situations: In casual conversations, such as with close friends or family members, it is common to use informal terms for cousins. These terms are often more flexible and can be used regardless of gender or age.
Wrap Up
Mastering the terminology for cousin in Chinese opens a path to better understanding and connecting with Chinese-speaking relatives and friends. Remember to consider the formality of the situation and the age and gender of your cousin when choosing the appropriate term. By familiarizing yourself with these formal and informal variations, you are on your way to building stronger relationships with your Chinese counterparts. Enjoy exploring the fascinating world of Chinese kinship terms and have fun connecting with your cousins!
