When it comes to expressing a sentiment like “long live” in Chinese, there are various ways to convey the meaning depending on the context and formality level. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express “long live” in Chinese, and provide you with tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
Formal expressions are commonly used in official settings or when addressing someone of higher social status. Here are some formal ways to say “long live” in Chinese:
1. 长命百岁 (cháng mìng bǎi suì)
This phrase, composed of the characters “长命” (cháng mìng) meaning “long life” and “百岁” (bǎi suì) meaning “a hundred years old,” is the most common formal expression to wish someone a long and prosperous life.
Example: 长命百岁，祝您生日快乐！ (Cháng mìng bǎi suì, zhù nín shēngrì kuàilè!) – Long live and wishing you a happy birthday!
2. 万寿无疆 (wàn shòu wú jiāng)
This phrase is constructed with the characters “万寿” (wàn shòu) meaning “eternal life” and “无疆” (wú jiāng) meaning “boundless.” It emphasizes the desire for limitless longevity.
Example: 希望您万寿无疆，健康快乐！ (Xīwàng nín wàn shòu wú jiāng, jiànkāng kuàilè!) – Wishing you boundless longevity, good health, and happiness!
3. 福寿绵长 (fú shòu mián cháng)
This expression combines the characters “福” (fú) meaning “blessing” and “寿绵长” (shòu mián cháng) meaning “longevity.” It conveys the wish for a long and blessed life.
Example: 祝您福寿绵长，家庭幸福！ (Zhù nín fú shòu mián cháng, jiātíng xìngfú!) – Wishing you a long and blessed life, and a happy family!
Informal Expressions:
Informal expressions are often used in casual conversations or to show closeness with the person you are addressing. Let’s explore some informal ways to say “long live” in Chinese:
1. 多活动年 (duō huó dòng nián)
This phrase, formed with the characters “多” (duō) meaning “many,” “活动” (huó dòng) meaning “active,” and “年” (nián) meaning “years,” is a more colloquial way of expressing the wish for a lively and long life.
Example: 多活动年，少烦恼！ (Duō huó dòng nián, shǎo fánnǎo!) – Enjoy an active and worry-free life!
2. 长命百岁，百岁无忧 (cháng mìng bǎi suì, bǎi suì wú yōu)
This informal expression is similar to the formal “长命百岁” (cháng mìng bǎi suì) but adds “百岁无忧” (bǎi suì wú yōu) meaning “without worries at a hundred years old.” It conveys the wish for a long and carefree life.
Example: 祝你长命百岁，百岁无忧！ (Zhù nǐ cháng mìng bǎi suì, bǎi suì wú yōu!) – Wishing you a long and carefree life!
Regional Variations:
Across different regions in China, variations of expressing “long live” may exist. However, the formal and informal expressions mentioned above are widely understood and used throughout the country.
Summary:
Whether you want to express “long live” formally or informally in Chinese, you now have a range of phrases to choose from. The formal expressions like “长命百岁” (cháng mìng bǎi suì), “万寿无疆” (wàn shòu wú jiāng), and “福寿绵长” (fú shòu mián cháng) are ideal for official occasions or showing respect. On the other hand, the more casual phrases such as “多活动年” (duō huó dòng nián) and “长命百岁，百岁无忧” (cháng mìng bǎi suì, bǎi suì wú yōu) can be used among friends, family, or in informal settings.
Remember to consider the appropriate level of formality and familiarity when using these expressions. In Chinese culture, conveying well-wishes for long life is a gesture of kindness and respect. So, whether you’re celebrating a joyous occasion or simply expressing your heartfelt wishes, these phrases will surely make a positive impact!
