Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “obese” in Chinese. In this article, we will provide you with various options for both formal and informal usage of this term. We’ll also clarify any regional variations that may exist. Whether you’re just curious or need to communicate this concept to someone, we’ve got you covered with tips, examples, and much more.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Obese”
When it comes to formal situations, it’s essential to choose appropriate language. Here are a few terms you can use to express “obese” with a formal tone:
1. 肥胖 (féi pàng)
This is the most common term used in formal Chinese to describe obesity. The first character, 肥 (féi), means “fat,” while the second character, 胖 (pàng), means “obese.” Together, they represent being excessively overweight.
Example:
我对自己的身材感到担心，因为我变得很肥胖了。(Wǒ duì zìjǐ de shēncái gǎndào dānxīn, yīnwèi wǒ biàn dé hěn féipàng le.)
I’m concerned about my figure because I’ve become very obese.
2. 高BMI (gāo BMI)
Another option in formal contexts is to use the abbreviation “BMI.” In Chinese, BMI is referred to as “身体质量指数” (shēntǐ zhìliàng zhǐshù), but using the abbreviation is acceptable.
Example:
根据我的高BMI，医生建议我需要减肥。(Gēnjù wǒ de gāo BMI, yīshēng jiànyì wǒ xūyào jiǎnféi.)
Based on my high BMI, the doctor suggested I need to lose weight.
Informal Ways to Say “Obese”
Informal situations allow for more casual expressions. Here are a couple of common ways to say “obese” informally:
1. 肥嘟嘟 (féi dū dū)
This term paints a lighthearted picture of someone being chubby or even jolly due to their weight. Its informal nature makes it a playful way to refer to obesity.
Example:
小宝宝的脸肥嘟嘟的，看起来很可爱。(Xiǎo bǎobao de liǎn féi dū dū de, kànqǐlái hěn kě’ài.)
The baby’s chubby face looks adorable.
2. 肥仔 (féi zǎi)
Often used in Cantonese-speaking regions, “肥仔” literally means “fat boy.” It is widely understood across China and can be used informally for both males and females.
Example:
我从小到大都是个肥仔，但我没在意别人怎么看。(Wǒ cóngxiǎo dào dà dōu shì ge féi zǎi, dàn wǒ méi zài yì biérén zěnme kàn.)
I’ve been a fat boy since childhood, but I never cared about how others see me.
Regional Variations
Although Mandarin Chinese is the official language of China, there are some regional variations in how “obese” is expressed. Here are a couple of examples:
1. 豬 (zhū) – In Taiwan and Southern China
In regions such as Taiwan and Southern China, the character “豬” (zhū), which means “pig,” might be used figuratively to allude to obesity. However, it’s important to note that this term can be considered impolite or offensive in certain situations, so use it with caution.
Example:
别再吃那么多了，要不变成一头肥豬。(Bié zài chī nàme duō le, yào bù biàn chéng yītóu féi zhū.)
Don’t eat so much, or you’ll turn into a fat pig.
2. 肉乾 (ròu gān) – In some parts of Taiwan
In certain areas of Taiwan, the term “肉乾” (ròu gān), meaning “jerky,” can be used to describe obesity, highlighting the idea of excessive flesh.
Example:
最近我吃了太多肉乾了，变得有点肥了。(Zuìjìn wǒ chī le tài duō ròu gān le, biàn dé yǒudiǎn féi le.)
I’ve been eating too much jerky lately and have gained some weight.
Conclusion
Congrats! You’ve now learned various ways to say “obese” in Chinese. You can use the formal terms “肥胖 (féi pàng)” and “高BMI (gāo BMI)” when addressing obesity in a more serious context. In informal situations, “肥嘟嘟 (féi dū dū)” and “肥仔 (féi zǎi)” provide a more playful tone. However, it’s important to be mindful of regional variations, such as using “豬 (zhū)” or “肉乾 (ròu gān)” in specific areas.
Remember, when discussing weight-related topics, it is crucial to consider individual sensitivities and preferences. Keep a respectful and supportive tone throughout your conversations, making sure not to hurt or offend others unintentionally. Enjoy using these terms in the appropriate context, and embrace the diversity of language when communicating about obesity in Chinese!
