Learning different ways to say “survey” in Mandarin can help you effectively communicate your needs when conducting research or gathering information in Chinese-speaking contexts. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express the word “survey” in Mandarin, providing you with various examples and tips along the way.
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Formal Ways to Say “Survey”
When it comes to formal language, Mandarin provides several appropriate options to convey the idea of a “survey.” Here are a few commonly used terms:
1. 调查 (diào chá)
调查 (diào chá) is the most commonly used term for “survey” in Mandarin. This term encompasses a wide range of research activities aimed at gathering data or opinions. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Example: 我们正在进行一项市场调查，以了解消费者的偏好。
Pinyin: Wǒmen zhèngzài jìnxíng yī xiàng shìchǎng diàochá, yǐ liǎojiě xiāofèizhě de piānhào.
Translation: We are conducting a market survey to understand consumer preferences.
2. 问卷调查 (wèn juàn diào chá)
问卷调查 (wèn juàn diào chá) specifically refers to a “questionnaire survey.” This term is often used when participants are required to complete a set of questions for data collection purposes.
Example: 我们需要你参与一项问卷调查来评估我们的产品。
Pinyin: Wǒmen xūyào nǐ cānyù yī xiàng wènjuàn diàochá lái pínggū wǒmen de chǎnpǐn.
Translation: We need you to participate in a questionnaire survey to evaluate our product.
3. 调研 (diào yán)
调研 (diào yán) is another formal term that conveys the meaning of “research” or “investigation.” Although it is broader in scope than a simple “survey,” it can be used to refer to specific survey activities as well.
Example: 我们需要进行一次市场调研，以了解当前市场需求。
Pinyin: Wǒmen xūyào jìnxíng yī cì shìchǎng diàoyán, yǐ liǎojiě dāngqián shìchǎng xūqiú.
Translation: We need to carry out a market research to understand the current market demands.
Informal Ways to Say “Survey”
In less formal settings, Mandarin speakers commonly use alternative terms to express the idea of a “survey.” Here are a couple of informal options:
1. 调查问卷 (diào chá wèn juàn)
调查问卷 (diào chá wèn juàn) specifically refers to a “survey questionnaire.” This term is widely understood in informal contexts and signifies the act of collecting opinions or information.
Example: 请填写这份调查问卷，帮助我们改进产品品质。
Pinyin: Qǐng tiánxiě zhè fèn diào chá wèn juàn, bāngzhù wǒmen gǎijìn chǎnpǐn pǐnzhì.
Translation: Please fill out this survey questionnaire to help us improve the quality of our products.
2. 采访 (cǎi fǎng)
Although primarily translating to “interview,” 采访 (cǎi fǎng) can also be used informally to describe a type of survey, specifically when the act of questioning individuals is involved.
Example: 我们计划对顾客采访，以了解他们对服务的满意度。
Pinyin: Wǒmen jìhuà duì gùkè cǎifǎng, yǐ liǎojiě tāmen duì fúwù de mǎnyìdù.
Translation: We plan to interview customers to understand their satisfaction with the service.
Summary
While “调查 (diào chá)” is the most common term for “survey” in Mandarin, other formal options such as “问卷调查 (wèn juàn diào chá)” and “调研 (diào yán)” provide additional nuances. In informal contexts, “调查问卷 (diào chá wèn juàn)” and “采访 (cǎi fǎng)” offer suitable alternatives. Remember, adjusting your vocabulary based on the formality of your setting is crucial when communicating in Mandarin.
By familiarizing yourself with different ways to express “survey” in Mandarin, you’ll be better equipped to engage in conversations, conduct research, or request participation effectively.
