Craving a delicious slice of pizza while in China? Knowing how to say “pizza” in Chinese will certainly come in handy! In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express this mouthwatering dish in Mandarin Chinese. We will also touch upon regional variations, if necessary. So, let’s dive right in and savor the flavors of the Chinese language!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Pizza in Chinese
If you find yourself in a more formal setting or communicating with older generations, using these formal terms for pizza will be highly appreciated.
1. 披萨 (pī sà)
The term 披萨 is the most commonly used word for “pizza” in Mandarin Chinese. It is borrowed from the English “pizza” and pronounced in a similar way, but with a slight Chinese accent. This word is easily recognized and understood by Chinese speakers across the country.
Example: 我想吃披萨。 (Wǒ xiǎng chī pī sà.) – I want to eat pizza.
2. 比萨 (bǐ sà)
Another formal term often used interchangeably with 披萨 is 比萨. This word is more commonly used in Taiwan. It is also borrowed from English, but with a slight variation in the way it is pronounced.
Example: 请给我一份比萨。 (Qǐng gěi wǒ yí fèn bǐ sà.) – Please give me a pizza.
Informal Ways to Say Pizza in Chinese
In casual conversations or with friends, it’s common to use informal terms when referring to pizza. These expressions are more relaxed and can help you connect with Chinese locals on a friendly level.
1. 披萨饼 (pī sà bǐng)
The term 披萨饼 is a combination of the word for “pizza” (披萨) and the Chinese word for “cake” or “biscuit” (饼). It is a lighthearted way of referring to pizza, emphasizing its circular shape.
Example: 我们一起吃披萨饼吧！ (Wǒmen yīqǐ chī pī sà bǐng ba!) – Let’s eat pizza together!
2. 比司饼 (bǐ sī bǐng)
比司饼 is another informal expression used mainly in Northern China to refer to pizza. It literally translates to “pizza biscuit.” This term is less widely known outside of the northern regions, so it’s better to use it there to ensure better understanding.
Example: 你想吃比司饼吗？(Nǐ xiǎng chī bǐ sī bǐng ma?) – Do you want to eat pizza?
Regional Variations for Pizza
While most Chinese speakers will understand the terms mentioned above, there might be slight regional variations. Let’s explore a few of them!
1. 披托 (pī tuō)
In the city of Hong Kong and its neighboring areas, “pizza” is sometimes referred to as 披托. This term is influenced by the Cantonese language, which is widely spoken in this region.
Example: 香港有很多好吃的披托。 (Xiānggǎng yǒu hěnduō hǎochī de pī tuō.) – Hong Kong has many delicious pizzas.
2. 皮萨 (pí sà)
In the southwestern part of China, such as Sichuan Province, it is not uncommon to hear 皮萨 instead of 披萨. Both terms have the same meaning, but the latter is more region-specific.
Example: 去四川尝尝当地的皮萨吧！(Qù Sìchuān cháng cháng dāngdì de pí sà ba!) – Let’s go to Sichuan and try the local pizza!
Wrap-up
Now that you have familiarized yourself with various ways to say “pizza” in Chinese, you can confidently satisfy your pizza cravings anywhere in China. Remember to choose the appropriate term based on the formality of the situation and the region you are in. Embrace the rich flavors of the Chinese language and enjoy your slice of pizza!
