心肝
Sweetheart in Hokkien is 心肝.
The term 心肝 is used as a term of endearment for romantic partners, children or very close loved ones.
Meaning: a person very much liked or loved by someone (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term 心肝 literally translates to heart and liver, representing the most vital organs and thus the core of one's being.
Did you know?
- In some Hokkien dialects, the phrase is used ironically to describe a 'spoiled brat' or someone who is overly pampered by their parents.
- The word for 'liver' in 心肝 is also used in Hokkien idioms to describe courage or grit, creating a linguistic link between love and bravery.
- The association of the liver with love is common in many East Asian cultures, as the liver was historically seen as the seat of emotions rather than the heart alone.
Examples in context
- 伊是我的心肝。i si guá ê sim-kan.She is my sweetheart.
- 我愛我的心肝。guá ài guá ê sim-kan.I love my sweetheart.
Example conversation
A couple is relaxing at home together.
- 建宏 Kian-hong心肝，我想欲喝茶。Sim-kan, góa siáng-beh hìat-tê.Sweetheart, I want to drink some tea.
- 曉雯 Hiau-bun好喔，我現在去泡。Hó o, góa hiān-zāi khì phò.Okay, I will brew some now.
- 建宏 Kian-hong曉雯，你真是太貼心了。Xiǎo-wén, lí chin-sī thài thiếp-sim liáu.Xiaowen, you are truly so thoughtful.
- 曉雯 Hiau-bun因為你是我的心肝呀！In-uī lí sī góa ê sim-kan a!Because you are my sweetheart!
