Learning how to say “this month” in Chinese is essential for effective communication. Whether you find yourself in formal or informal settings, being able to express the concept of the current month is indispensable. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express “this month” in Chinese, including various tips and examples to help you understand the usage in different contexts. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “This Month”
In formal contexts, it is important to use appropriate language to convey your message respectfully. Below are some formal ways to say “this month” in Chinese:
1. 本月 (běn yuè)
“本月” is the most common way to say “this month” in formal Chinese. This term is widely understood and used throughout China. For example:
本月是一月份。 (Běn yuè shì yī yuè fèn.)
This month is January.
2. 当月 (dāng yuè)
Another formal way to express “this month” is by using “当月”. This term is commonly heard in official settings or written documents. For instance:
当月销售额创纪录。 (Dāng yuè xiāo shòu é chuàng jì lù.)
The sales volume this month broke the record.
Informal Ways to Say “This Month”
In informal situations or daily conversations, Chinese speakers prefer using more colloquial expressions. Let’s explore some informal ways to say “this month” in Chinese:
1. 这个月 (zhè ge yuè)
“这个月” is a widely used informal expression for “this month”. It is suitable for everyday interactions, both spoken and written. Here’s an example:
这个月我得好好准备考试。(Zhè ge yuè wǒ dé hǎo hǎo zhǔn bèi kǎo shì.)
I need to prepare for the exam this month.
2. 本个月 (běn ge yuè)
Another commonly used informal phrase is “本个月”. Although it may sound a bit more localized, it is widely understood and used in many regions. Consider this example:
本个月工资涨了。(Běn ge yuè gōng zī zhǎng le.)
My salary increased this month.
Tips and Regional Variations
When learning to say “this month” in Chinese, keep the following tips and regional variations in mind:
1. Use standard Mandarin for wider understanding
While there might be regional variations, using standard Mandarin like “本月” or “这个月” is recommended for better understanding across different Chinese-speaking regions. These phrases are widely used and understood.
2. Pay attention to context and situations
Understanding the appropriate expression for “this month” also depends on the context and situation. For instance, in casual conversations with friends, you can even simply say “这个月”. However, in formal meetings or official documents, use “本月” or “当月” for a more professional tone.
3. Regional variations might exist
It’s worth noting that regional variations might occur in Chinese dialects or colloquial language. For example, in some areas, people may use “今个月” (jīn ge yuè) or “今个阵” (jīn ge zhèn) to mean “this month”. However, these variations are not as widely recognized or understood as standard Mandarin, so it’s recommended to stick to commonly used expressions.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned the formal and informal ways to say “this month” in Chinese. Understanding the appropriate phrases like “本月” in formal contexts and “这个月” in informal situations will greatly enhance your communication skills. Remember to consider the context, and pay attention to regional variations if necessary. Practice using these phrases in different situations, and soon you’ll be expressing “this month” in Chinese effortlessly. Happy learning!
