Whether you’re traveling to China or simply want to order takeout from a local Chinese restaurant, it’s useful to know how to say “takeaway” in Chinese. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express this term, providing you with tips, examples, and information on regional variations as needed. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Takeaway
If you prefer to use a more formal term when ordering takeaway in Chinese, you can use the following options:
1. 外卖 (wài mài)
This is the most commonly used formal term for “takeaway” in Chinese. It consists of two characters:
外 (wài) means “outside” or “takeout”
卖 (mài) means “to sell”
When ordering from a restaurant, you can simply say “wài mài” and the staff will understand that you want your food to go.
2. 外带 (wài dài)
This term is also formal and widely understood in Chinese. It literally means “take it outside.” Here’s how it breaks down:
外 (wài) means “outside”
带 (dài) means “to carry”
Using “wài dài” to order takeaway will ensure clear communication with the restaurant staff.
Informal Ways to Say Takeaway
If you prefer to use a more colloquial term, you can try these informal expressions:
1. 打包 (dǎ bāo)
This term is commonly used in informal settings to refer to “takeaway” or “to-go” options. Break it down like this:
打 (dǎ) means “to pack”
包 (bāo) means “package”
When you want to order takeaway casually, you can confidently say “dǎ bāo” to the staff.
2. 带走 (dài zǒu)
This informal term is often used when you want to informally request your food to be “taken away” or “to go.” It consists of:
带 (dài) means “to take”
走 (zǒu) means “to go”
“dài zǒu” is a straightforward phrase to remember for an informal takeaway order.
Regional Variations
Given the vastness of China and its diverse regional dialects, variations in the way “takeaway” is expressed may exist. However, you should generally find the formal and informal expressions mentioned earlier to be commonly understood throughout the country. It is also worth mentioning that written Chinese is uniform across regions, reducing any potential confusion when placing a written order.
Tips and Examples
Here are a few additional tips and examples to enhance your understanding of ordering takeaway in Chinese:
Tips:
- Speak clearly and confidently when ordering.
- Nonetheless, remain polite and use basic greetings.
- Learning a few food-related words can be helpful in specific situations.
- Carry a local phrasebook or use translation apps to aid in communication.
Examples:
- “我要外卖。” (Wǒ yào wài mài.) – “I want takeaway.”
- “请打包一份。” (Qǐng dǎ bāo yī fèn.) – “Please pack one portion to go.”
- “给我带走。” (Gěi wǒ dài zǒu.) – “Give it to me to take away.”
By using these phrases and understanding the context in which they are used, you’ll be able to confidently order takeaway in Chinese wherever you go.
So next time you find yourself craving Chinese cuisine, you’ll be able to express your desire for takeaway using the appropriate terms in Mandarin Chinese. Enjoy your meal!
