In Chinese, expressing the concept of “leave” can vary depending on the context, relationship, and formality of the situation. This guide will provide you with various ways to say “leave” in Chinese, including both formal and informal expressions. While regional variations may exist, this guide focuses on standard Mandarin Chinese. Read on to discover different ways to say “leave” and gain insight into their usage.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Leave” in Chinese
When speaking in more formal settings or with people of higher authority, it is essential to use appropriate language. Here are some formal ways to express the concept of “leave” in Chinese:
1.1 请假 (qǐng jià) – Request for Leave
If you need to formally request time off or ask for permission to leave, you can use the phrase 请假 (qǐng jià). This expression is commonly used in professional and educational settings. For example:
Example:
我想请假两天去参加婚礼。
(Wǒ xiǎng qǐng jià liǎng tiān qù cān jiā hūn lǐ.)
I would like to take two days off to attend a wedding.
1.2 辞职 (cí zhí) – Resign
If you plan to leave a job permanently, you can use the word 辞职 (cí zhí). This term specifically refers to resigning from employment. For example:
Example:
我决定辞职寻找更好的机会。
(Wǒ jué dìng cí zhí xún zhǎo gèng hǎo de jī huì.)
I have decided to resign and look for better opportunities.
2. Informal Ways to Say “Leave” in Chinese
In casual or friendly settings, particularly among peers or close acquaintances, you can use more relaxed expressions to convey the idea of “leave.” Here are some informal ways to say “leave” in Chinese:
2.1 走 (zǒu) – Go
The word 走 (zǒu) is a simple and commonly used informal expression to mean “leave” or “go” in Chinese. It can be used in various situations and is considered quite versatile. For example:
Example:
我得走了，明天再见！
(Wǒ děi zǒu le, míng tiān zài jiàn!)
I have to go now, see you tomorrow!
2.2 离开 (lí kāi) – Depart
When you want to express “leave” with a slightly more formal tone in an informal context, you can use the phrase 离开 (lí kāi). It is suitable for informal conversations among friends. For example:
Example:
我们准备离开这个城市，去探索新的冒险。
(Wǒ men zhǔn bèi lí kāi zhè ge chéng shì, qù tàn suǒ xīn de mào xiǎn.)
We are getting ready to leave this city and embark on new adventures.
3. Other Expressions Related to “Leave”
Apart from the direct translations of “leave,” there are several related expressions in Chinese that you may find useful. Let’s explore a few of these below:
3.1 告别 (gào bié) – Say Goodbye
When departing from someone or bidding farewell, you can use the word 告别 (gào bié) in Chinese. It conveys a sense of separation or parting. For example:
Example:
明天我将告别家人，前往外地工作。
(Míng tiān wǒ jiāng gào bié jiā rén, qián wǎng wài dì gōng zuò.)
Tomorrow, I will say goodbye to my family and go to work in another city.
3.2 离去 (lí qù) – Departure
When you want to emphasize the act of leaving or departing, you can use the term 离去 (lí qù). It carries a more formal tone and can be appropriate in literary or poetic contexts. For example:
Example:
他悄然离去，只留下一纸空空的承诺。
(Tā qiāo rán lí qù, zhǐ liú xià yī zhǐ kōng kōng de chéng nuò.)
He silently left, leaving behind only an empty promise.
Conclusion
In Chinese, expressing “leave” can vary based on formality and context. This guide has provided you with various ways to say “leave” in Chinese, both formally and informally. Remember to consider the appropriate expression based on the relationship and situation. Keep practicing these phrases to enhance your proficiency in Chinese communication. Happy conversing!
