How to Say Professor in Chinese

Learning to say “professor” in Chinese will not only impress your Chinese acquaintances but also enhance your language skills. This guide will provide you with the formal and informal ways to address a professor in Chinese, as well as some regional variations if necessary. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and examples needed to effortlessly use this term in different contexts.

Formal Ways to Say Professor

In formal Chinese settings or when addressing professors respectfully, you can use the following terms:

1. 教授 (jiàoshòu): This is the most common and widely used term for “professor” in Chinese. It is suitable for addressing both male and female professors. For example:
   

   这是我们的化学教授。(zhè shì wǒmen de huàxué jiàoshòu)
   This is our chemistry professor.

2. 教师 (jiàoshī): The term “教师” is more general and can refer to any type of teacher or instructor. However, it can also be used to address professors in formal situations. For example:
   

   请问，教师办公室在哪里？(qǐngwèn, jiàoshī bàngōngshì zài nǎlǐ?)
   Excuse me, where is the professor’s office?

Informal Ways to Say Professor

In informal situations, or when you have a closer relationship with a professor, you can use the following terms:

1. 老师 (lǎoshī): This is a common term used to address any type of teacher or instructor, including professors. It is often used by students or those who have a friendly relationship with the professor. For example:
   

   老师，我有一个问题。(lǎoshī, wǒ yǒu yīgè wèntí.)
   Professor, I have a question.

2. 师傅 (shīfu): This term, which originally referred to skilled craftsmen, can also be used to address professors, especially in certain regions or among older generations. It is less commonly used than “老师” but may still be encountered. For example:
   

   师傅，您觉得这是正确的答案吗？(shīfu, nín juédé zhè shì zhèngquè de dá’àn ma?)
   Professor, do you think this is the correct answer?

Regional Variations

In addition to the formal and informal terms mentioned above, there are some regional variations in Chinese-speaking areas. These variations are less commonly used but are included here for cultural and linguistic interest:

1. 教授 (jiàoshòu): This term is used in most regions, including Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore. It is the default and most widely recognized term for “professor”.
2. 大先生 (dàxiānshēng): In some regions, particularly in Taiwan, “大先生” can be used as a polite and formal way to address professors, which literally translates to “big mister”. Although it is less common than “教授,” it still holds respect and formality.
3. 先生 (xiānshēng): “先生” is a general term used to address men respectfully, similar to “Mr.” in English. In informal contexts, it can be used to address male professors, especially among younger generations in Mainland China.
4. 女士 (nǚshì): “女士” is a polite term used to address women respectfully, similar to “Ms.” in English. In formal contexts, it can be used to address female professors, especially among younger generations in Mainland China.

Now that you are familiar with the formal and informal ways to address a professor in Chinese, as well as some regional variations, you can confidently use the appropriate term based on the situation. Remember to always be respectful and adapt your choice of address to the specific context and relationship you have with the professor. Practice using these terms with Chinese speakers and continue exploring the rich linguistic landscape of the Chinese language.