亲爱的哥哥
qīn'ài de gēge
The English phrase 'darling brother' is translated into Chinese as 亲爱的哥哥 (qīn'ài de gēge).
亲爱的哥哥 is an affectionate way to address or refer to one's older brother. This phrase is primarily used in written contexts, such as letters, cards or social media posts, rather than in casual spoken conversation.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 亲爱的 (qīn'ài de), meaning 'dear' or 'beloved' and 哥哥 (gēge), meaning 'older brother'.
Which one should you use?
In natural spoken Chinese, one would typically just say 哥哥 (gēge) to address an older brother. Adding 亲爱的 (qīn'ài de) can sound overly formal or dramatic when used in person.
How do you pronounce it?
qīn'ài de gēge
Did you know?
- The word 亲 (qīn) in 亲爱的 (qīn'ài de) is now used as a standalone slang term by online shopkeepers to address customers, similar to 'dear' or 'honey'.
- In Chinese culture, the term 哥哥 (gēge) is often used to address any slightly older male friend or romantic partner, not just a biological brother.
- While 亲爱的 (qīn'ài de) translates to 'dear' or 'beloved', it is most commonly used in Chinese to address romantic partners rather than family members. Using it for a brother might make a listener wonder if you are joking or being intentionally theatrical.
Example conversation
Jiayi is asking her older brother for help with her homework.
- 佳怡 Jiayi亲爱的哥哥，你现在有空吗？Qīn'àide gēge, nǐ xiànzài yǒu kòng ma?Darling brother, are you free right now?
- 志强 Zhiqiang有空，怎么了，佳怡？Yǒu kòng, zěnme le, Jiāyí?I am, what's up, Jiayi?
- 佳怡 Jiayi这道数学题我不会做。Zhè dào shùxué tí wǒ bù huì zuò.I don't know how to do this math problem.
- 志强 Zhiqiang没问题，我来教你。Méi wèntí, wǒ lái jiāo nǐ.No problem, I'll teach you.
