Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “that thing” in Chinese! Whether you’re planning to travel to China, communicate with Chinese-speaking friends or colleagues, or simply have an interest in the language, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways of expressing “that thing” in Chinese, highlighting regional variations only where necessary. We’ll provide you with tips, examples, and context to help you navigate this phrase seamlessly. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “That Thing” in Chinese
In formal contexts, it’s essential to use appropriate terminology. Here are a few ways to say “that thing” in Chinese formally:
1. 那个东西 (nà gè dōngxi)
This is the most general and commonly used phrase for “that thing” in Chinese. It can be used in various situations and is widely understood throughout most Chinese-speaking regions.
For example, if you’re pointing to an object and want to refer to it as “that thing,” you can say:
那个东西是什么？ (Nà gè dōngxi shì shénme?)
(What is that thing?)
2. 其中的/那件事 (qízhōng de/nà jiàn shì)
Use these phrases when you want to refer to a specific event or matter as “that thing.” They imply a level of formality and precision in your speech.
Let’s say you are discussing a specific incident and want to refer to it as “that thing.” You could say:
我有件事想和你谈谈，那件事让我很担心。 (Wǒ yǒu jiàn shì xiǎng hé nǐ tán tán, nà jiàn shì ràng wǒ hěn dānxīn.)
(I have something I want to discuss with you. That thing is making me very worried.)
Informal Ways to Say “That Thing” in Chinese
Informal speech often involves shorter and more colloquial expressions. Here are a couple of informal ways to say “that thing” in Chinese:
1. 那玩意儿 (nà wányìr)
This expression is commonly used in informal conversations among friends or when speaking casually. It carries a sense of informality and familiarity.
Imagine you’re having a friendly conversation with someone about a mysterious gadget. You can say:
你见过那玩意儿吗？ (Nǐ jiàn guò nà wányìr ma?)
(Have you seen that thing?)
2. 那个东西 (nèi ge dōngxi)
This phrase is similar to the formal expression mentioned earlier, but with a slight change in pronunciation (nèi instead of nà). It adds an informal and relaxed tone to your speech.
Let’s say you are discussing something trivial with a close friend, and you want to refer to it as “that thing.” You could say:
你记得那个东西吗？ (Nǐ jìde nèi ge dōngxi ma?)
(Do you remember that thing?)
Tips for Using “That Thing” in Chinese
Here are a few tips to enhance your understanding and usage of “that thing” in Chinese:
1. Context Matters
Always consider the context in which you’re using the phrase. The appropriate term may vary depending on whether you’re referring to an object, event, or concept. Ensure your choice aligns with the specific situation.
2. Observe Regional Differences
While most Chinese-speaking regions understand and use the phrases mentioned, slight variations may exist between dialects or regions. Flexibility is key, so pay attention to local usage if you’re in a specific area.
3. Politeness and Respect
If you’re unsure about the appropriate degree of formality, it’s generally better to err on the side of politeness and respect. It’s always appreciated when you make an effort to be more formal, especially in professional or unfamiliar settings.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve completed our comprehensive guide on how to say “that thing” in Chinese. You’ve learned several formal and informal expressions, observed regional variations, and gained valuable tips for using them effectively. Remember to adapt your choice of phrases to the context and be mindful of the preferences in your surroundings. Whether you find yourself discussing objects or events, you’re well-equipped to navigate conversations smoothly in Chinese. Enjoy your linguistic journey!
