Greetings! Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “mean” in Chinese. Whether you’re learning the language for travel, work, or personal interest, understanding different ways to express “mean” in Chinese, both formally and informally, can greatly enhance your language skills. The Chinese language offers various nuanced expressions to convey the meaning of “mean” based on context, intensity, and regional variations. Let’s explore these fascinating linguistic nuances together!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Mean” in Chinese
When expressing the concept of “mean” formally in Chinese, consider the following keywords and phrases:
1. 意味着 (yìwèizhe)
The phrase “意味着” directly translates to “to mean” in English. It’s widely used to indicate the intention or implication behind something. For example:
这句话意味着你不同意我的观点。
(Zhè jù huà yìwèizhe nǐ bù tóngyì wǒ de guāndiǎn.)
“This sentence means you disagree with my point of view.”
2. 含义 (hányì)
If you want to refer specifically to the meaning of a word or phrase, use the term “含义.” It involves the true essence or connotation of a particular term. For example:
这个词汇的含义很难理解。
(Zhège cíhuì de hányì hěn nán lǐjiě.)
“The meaning of this vocabulary is difficult to understand.”
3. 凶恶 (xiōng’è)
In certain contexts where “mean” implies a ferocious or aggressive nature, the term “凶恶” can be used. It expresses a harsh or cruel demeanor. For example:
那只凶恶的狗吓坏了小孩。
(Nà zhī xiōng’è de gǒu xià huài le xiǎo hái.)
“That mean dog frightened the child.”
Informal Ways to Say “Mean” in Chinese
When it comes to informal expressions of “mean” in Chinese, there are several popular phrases that people use in day-to-day conversations. Here are a few examples:
1. 刻薄 (kèbó)
The term “刻薄” refers to being mean or unkind in a casual setting. It often describes someone who is sharp-tongued or ill-tempered. For example:
她对待别人总是很刻薄。
(Tā duìdài biérén zǒng shì hěn kèbó.)
“She is always mean to others.”
2. 尖酸刻薄 (jiānsuān kèbó)
When “mean” translates to sarcastic or cutting remarks, the phrase “尖酸刻薄” is commonly used. It implies a sharp and biting tone. For example:
她的话听起来尖酸刻薄。
(Tā de huà tīng qǐlai jiānsuān kèbó.)
“Her words sound mean and sarcastic.”
3. 虐待 (nüèdài)
When “mean” takes on the sense of abuse or mistreatment, the term “虐待” expresses this notion more strongly. It indicates cruelty or maltreatment. For example:
他曾经遭受过虐待。
(Tā céngjīng zāoshòu guo nüèdài.)
“He had suffered from abuse.”
Regional Variations
Chinese is a diverse language, and various regions have their own unique expressions for “mean.” However, the differences are not significant enough to require separate listings. Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that regional idiomatic expressions may vary slightly but are generally understood by Mandarin speakers across different areas.
Wrap Up
Now that you’ve familiarized yourself with formal and informal ways to say “mean” in Chinese, it’s time to practice incorporating these expressions into your language skills. Remember, context is crucial in choosing the appropriate term or phrase when conveying the concept of “mean” in Chinese. Enjoy exploring the rich linguistic landscape of this fascinating language!
