Learning how to express feelings and emotions in different languages is an exciting journey. If you’re looking to expand your Chinese vocabulary, knowing how to say “disgusting” is a useful addition. In this guide, we’ll explore formal and informal ways of expressing disgust in Chinese, along with some tips, examples, and regional variations. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Disgusting” in Chinese
When expressing disgust in a more formal context, you can use the following phrases:
1. 厌恶 (yàn wù): This term directly translates to “disgust” or “loathing” in English. It is a commonly used formal word to express a strong sense of dislike or repulsion. For example:
他对那种行为感到厌恶。(tā duì nà zhǒng xíng wéi gǎn dào yàn wù) – He feels disgusted by that behavior.
2. 恶心 (ě xīn): This phrase means “nauseous” or “revolting” and is frequently used to express strong disgust. It can refer to physical sensations or actions. For example:
看到那个场景，我感到恶心。(kàn dào nà gè chǎng jǐng, wǒ gǎn dào ě xīn) – Seeing that scene makes me feel disgusted.
Informal Ways to Say “Disgusting” in Chinese
When speaking in a more casual setting, you may want to opt for informal expressions of disgust:
1. 恶 (ě): This term is an informal way to express disgust or distaste. It is often used in everyday conversation among friends or peers. For example:
那个电影太恶了，我简直无法看下去。(nà gè diàn yǐng tài ě le, wǒ jiǎn zhí wú fǎ kàn xià qù) – That movie is so disgusting, I can’t bear to watch it.
2. 令人恶心 (lìng rén ě xīn): This phrase is more colloquial and translates to “makes people disgusted.” It expresses a strong sense of repulsion or aversion. For example:
那个人的行为真的太令人恶心了。(nà gè rén de xíng wéi zhēn de tài lìng rén ě xīn le) – That person’s behavior is really disgusting.
Regional Variations
Chinese dialects and regional variations can add interesting nuances to expressions of disgust. Here are a few examples:
1. In Cantonese: In Cantonese, the word “disgusting” can be expressed as 嘢 (ye), 差（caa1）, or 醜（cau2）. These terms are widely used in the Cantonese-speaking regions.
2. In Hokkien: Hokkien, a Southern Min dialect, has its own variation of the word “disgusting.” It can be expressed as 恶心（e-sim） or 乌龟（oo-kue）.
Tips for Using Disgust Expressions
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using expressions related to disgust in Chinese:
- Context is key: Be mindful of the context in which you use these expressions. Different expressions may be more appropriate depending on the situation.
- Tone of voice: The way you articulate these expressions also plays a significant role in conveying your level of disgust. Pay attention to your tone of voice and facial expressions.
- Consider your relationships: Informal expressions of disgust may be more acceptable when used among close friends or peers. In formal settings, it’s best to opt for more polite expressions.
Remember, language is a reflection of culture, and understanding the appropriate use of expressions is essential to effective communication.
Now that you have a guide on how to say “disgusting” in Chinese, you can confidently express your feelings when the situation calls for it. Have fun exploring the rich world of Mandarin expressions!
