Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “support” in Chinese! Whether you are looking to communicate formally or informally, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll provide you with various ways to express support in Mandarin Chinese, while offering essential tips and examples to help you navigate this versatile term.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Support
Formal expressions are commonly used in professional and official settings or when addressing someone with utmost respect. Here are some formal ways to say “support” in Chinese:
- 支持 (zhī chí) – This is the most common and straightforward translation for “support” in Chinese. It is used in official contexts, such as expressing support for a cause, project, or policy. For instance,
我完全支持您的决定。
Wǒ wánquán zhīchí nín de juédìng.
I fully support your decision.
赞成 (zàn chéng) – This term specifically implies agreement and support. It is often used in formal discussions or when expressing support for an idea, proposition, or opinion. For example,
我赞成这个计划。
Wǒ zànchéng zhège jìhuà.
I support this plan.
拥护 (yōng hù) – This expression implies strong support and backing. It is typically used in formal contexts to convey unwavering support for a person, policy, or ideology. For instance,
我拥护政府的这项政策。
Wǒ yōnghù zhèngfǔ de zhè xiàng zhèngcè.
I support this government policy.
Informal Ways to Say Support
Informal expressions are more commonly used in everyday conversations or when interacting with friends, family, or colleagues on a casual basis. Let’s explore some informal ways to express support in Chinese:
- 支持 (zhī chí) – Just like in formal contexts, “支持” can also be used informally. It is a versatile term that works well in everyday situations. For example, you can say:
我会一直支持你的。
Wǒ huì yīzhí zhīchí nǐ de.
I will always support you.
支持你 (zhī chí nǐ) – This informal expression is a more personalized way to convey support. It emphasizes the support is directed towards the person you are speaking to. An example would be:
别担心，我会支持你的选择。
Bié dānxīn, wǒ huì zhīchí nǐ de xuǎnzé.
Don’t worry, I will support your decision.
顶你 (dǐng nǐ) – In informal situations, particularly among friends, “顶你” is a colloquial way to say “I support you.” It carries an encouraging and playful tone. For instance,
你可以去尝试一下，我顶你！
Nǐ kěyǐ qù chángshì yīxià, wǒ dǐng nǐ!
You can give it a try, I support you!
Regional Variations
Chinese is a language with numerous dialects and regional variations. While the formal and informal ways mentioned earlier are applicable across regions, it’s worth noting some regional variations that locals use to convey support:
- 广东话 (Guǎngdōng huà) – Cantonese, spoken in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau, uses the term “支持” (zi1 ci4) for both formal and informal contexts. For instance,
我会支持你嘅。
Ngóh wúi zi1 ci4 néih gé.
I will support you.
上海话 (Shànghǎi huà) – Shanghainese has its term for support, which is “声持” (seen2 chii2) when spoken formally. However, informally, locals often use Mandarin’s “支持” (zhī chí) as well. For example,
我听到你的声持，很感动。
Ngoo thon tau ni dei zii ci, wueng kun tung.
I heard your support, and I’m touched.
Remember that Mandarin Chinese is the most widely understood and spoken form of Chinese, so being familiar with the formal and informal expressions in Mandarin will help you communicate effectively in most situations.
Now armed with these various ways to say “support” in Chinese, you can confidently express your support in both formal and informal settings. Keep practicing and exploring different contexts to enhance your understanding and usage of these expressions. Good luck!
