How to Say “Go Out” in Chinese: Formal and Informal Ways

Learning how to say “go out” in Chinese is useful when you want to invite someone for a social engagement or express your desire to leave a specific location or your home. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “go out” in Chinese, providing you with tips, examples, and even a few cultural insights along the way. Let’s get started!

Formal Ways to Say “Go Out” in Chinese:

When speaking formally in Chinese, it’s crucial to use respectful language. Here are some phrases you can use:

1. 出去 (chū qù)

This is the most basic and straightforward way to say “go out” in Chinese. It can be used in a wide range of situations, from leaving your house to going out for a walk or to run errands. Here’s an example:

请等一下,我要出去一下买东西。

Qǐng děng yí xià, wǒ yào chū qù yí xià mǎi dōng xī.

Please wait a moment, I need to go out and buy something.

2. 离开 (lí kāi)

This phrase is slightly more formal and carries the connotation of “leaving” rather than just “going out.” It’s a suitable choice when indicating that you are departing from a specific location. For example:

我现在要离开公司去开会。

Wǒ xiàn zài yào lí kāi gōng sī qù kāi huì.

I need to leave the office now and go to a meeting.

Informal Ways to Say “Go Out” in Chinese:

Informal speech is commonly used among friends or in casual situations. Here are a couple of phrases to express “go out” in a more relaxed manner:

1. 出去玩 (chū qù wán)

This phrase incorporates the word “玩” (wán), meaning “play” or “have fun.” It implies going out for leisure activities or social events. Here’s an example:

我们一起出去玩吧!

Wǒmen yī qǐ chū qù wán ba!

Let’s go out and have fun together!

2. 去外面 (qù wài miàn)

Using this phrase indicates a desire to go outside or to an exterior location. It can also imply a change of environment rather than simply leaving a specific place. For instance:

天气这么好,我们去外面晒太阳吧!

Tiān qì zhè me hǎo, wǒmen qù wài miàn shài tài yáng ba!

The weather is so nice, let’s go outside and sunbathe!

Additional Tips and Cultural Insights:

1. It’s customary in Chinese culture to invite others by suggesting an activity or destination rather than just saying “let’s go out.” This adds a warm and inclusive touch to the invitation. For example, “Let’s go out for dinner” can be expressed as “一起去吃晚饭吧” (Yī qǐ qù chī wǎn fàn ba).

2. Be mindful of your tone and formality when addressing someone in Chinese. Using appropriate forms of respect will enhance your communication and put you in good stead.

Conclusion:

Learning how to say “go out” in Chinese opens up opportunities for socializing and exploring Chinese culture. Now you have a range of phrases to use, whether you’re speaking formally or informally. Remember to incorporate cultural nuances and invite others to join you in specific activities or destinations for a more engaging conversation. Have fun expanding your Chinese vocabulary, and enjoy your next outing!

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