Guide: How to Say Last Name in Chinese

Learning how to say someone’s last name in Chinese can be a great way to show respect and build connections with Chinese speakers. In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways of addressing last names in Chinese, along with some useful tips and examples. So, let’s dive in!

Formal Ways of Addressing Last Names

In Chinese culture, formal ways of addressing last names are commonly used in official or professional settings. Here are a few methods:

1. Full Last Name: The most common way to address someone’s last name formally is by using their full last name. For example, if someone’s last name is Li, you would address them as “Li Xiansheng” for Mr. Li or “Li Nüshi” for Ms. Li, with “Xiansheng” and “Nüshi” meaning Mr. and Ms., respectively.
2. Title + Last Name: Another polite way to address someone formally is by using their title followed by their last name. For instance, if someone’s last name is Wang and they have the title of “Doctor,” you would address them as “Wang Yisheng” or “Doctor Wang.”
3. Family Name + Honorific: In Chinese culture, there are specific honorifics used to show respect to elders or superiors. To address someone’s last name formally, you can combine their family name with the honorific, such as “Lao Li” for an older person named Li, or “Zong Li” to show respect to a senior individual named Li.

Informal Ways of Addressing Last Names

When it comes to informal settings like among friends, classmates, or peers, a more casual approach is often taken to address last names in Chinese. Here are a few examples:

1. Last Name + Honorific: In informal situations, it is common to address someone by their last name followed by an affectionate honorific. For example, if someone’s last name is Chen, you might refer to them as “Chen Ge” or “Brother Chen” for a male, or “Chen Jie” or “Sister Chen” for a female.
2. Nickname: In Chinese culture, it is also acceptable to address someone by their nickname, especially in close friendships. If you know someone’s nickname, you can use it instead of their last name to address them informally.
3. Informal Pronouns: In certain regions or among close friends, it is common to use informal pronouns instead of last names. For instance, “ni” or “nǐ” for “you” can be used instead of the last name in informal conversations.

Tips for Addressing Last Names in Chinese

To ensure you address someone’s last name correctly, here are some valuable tips:

TIP 1: Always use appropriate honorifics or titles when addressing someone formally. This demonstrates respect and shows that you understand the hierarchy in Chinese culture.

TIP 2: Pay attention to the tone of your voice when pronouncing Chinese last names. Pronouncing them with a rising tone might change the meaning entirely.

TIP 3: If unsure, it is always better to ask politely and clarify how someone prefers to be addressed. Chinese speakers will appreciate your willingness to learn and get it right.

Examples of Last Names in Chinese

It’s time for some practical examples! Here are a few common last names in Chinese and how they are pronounced:

• Zhang (张): Pronounced as “Zhang,” this is one of the most common Chinese last names. So, “Zhang Xiansheng” would be “Mr. Zhang.”
• Wang (王): Pronounced as “Wang,” this last name is also quite frequest in China. You can address someone as “Wang Nüshi” to mean “Ms. Wang.”
• Liu (刘): Pronounced as “Liu,” this last name is pronounced with a rising tone. So, you can say “Liu Yisheng” to address “Doctor Liu.”
• Chen (陈): Pronounced as “Chen,” this is another common Chinese last name. You can use “Chen Ge” to say “Brother Chen” or “Chen Jie” for “Sister Chen.”

Remember, these are just a few examples, as Chinese last names come in a wide variety. Practice pronouncing them correctly while paying attention to tones.

Now that you’ve learned some formal and informal ways to address Chinese last names, along with valuable tips and examples, you are well-equipped to show respect and build connections with Chinese speakers.

Enjoy exploring the richness of Chinese culture through its beautiful names!