Rhonda Tayla
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!
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!
