Gaining the ability to express feelings of illness in a foreign language can be incredibly helpful, especially when traveling or residing in a Chinese-speaking country. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “sick” in Chinese, both formally and informally. We will also provide useful tips, examples, and regional variations where applicable.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Sick” in Chinese
When discussing illnesses in a formal context, such as speaking to a doctor or addressing someone with authority, the following expressions can be used:
1. 生病 (shēngbìng)
This term is widely used across different Chinese-speaking regions and can be translated as “to be sick” or “to fall ill.” It is simple yet widely understood, making it a suitable choice in most situations. For example:
我生病了。(Wǒ shēngbìng le.) – I am sick.
2. 患病 (huànbìng)
When emphasizing a long-term or chronic illness, the formal term “患病” is more appropriate. Use it when talking about serious conditions like cancer, diabetes, or heart disease. Example:
他患病已经多年了。(Tā huànbìng yǐjīng duō nián le.) – He has been sick for many years.
Informal Ways to Say “Sick” in Chinese
When conversing with friends, family, or peers, a more casual tone is typically used. Here are a few commonly used informal expressions:
1. 不舒服 (bù shūfu)
Literally meaning “not comfortable,” this phrase serves as a catch-all term for expressing physical discomfort:
我不舒服。(Wǒ bù shūfu.) – I feel sick.
2. 不舒服了 (bù shūfu le)
By adding “了” at the end, the phrase becomes more immediate, indicating that you have started feeling ill recently:
我不舒服了。(Wǒ bù shūfu le.) – I am feeling sick.
Common Regional Variations
While Mandarin Chinese is the official language in mainland China and Taiwan, there are regional variations that should be noted:
1. 生病 (shēngbìng) – In Mandarin Chinese
As mentioned earlier, “生病” is the widely accepted term across regions, including mainland China, Taiwan, and Singapore.
2. 生病 (sāk bìng) – In Cantonese
In Cantonese, spoken primarily in Hong Kong and Guangdong Province, the pronunciation of “生病” changes to “sāk bìng.” Example:
我生病了。(Ngoh sāk bìng liǔ.) – I am sick.
3. 打嗮 (dáshài) – In Hokkien
Hokkien language, primarily spoken in Fujian Province, Taiwan, and among diaspora communities, uses “打嗮” to mean “sick.” Example:
我打嗮了。(Góa tà-sá liáu.) – I feel sick.
Additional Tips
1. Demonstrating Symptoms
When describing specific symptoms, consider using the following phrases:
- 头疼 (tóuténg) – headache
- 发烧 (fāshāo) – fever
- 咳嗽 (késòu) – cough
- 恶心 (ěrxīn) – nausea
- 肚子疼 (dùziténg) – stomachache
2. Seeking Medical Assistance
If you require medical aid, specify your requirement by saying:
我需要看医生。(Wǒ xūyào kàn yīshēng.) – I need to see a doctor.
Conclusion
Mastering common phrases to express feeling sick in Chinese opens up possibilities for clear communication during times of illness. Remember, “生病” and “不舒服” are versatile terms suitable for most situations, while regional variations like “sāk bìng” (Cantonese) and “打嗮” (Hokkien) provide cultural depth. Utilize the additional tips to describe symptoms and seek appropriate medical assistance. Best wishes for a quick recovery!
