Guide: How to Say “Who” in Hokkien

If you are interested in learning how to say “who” in Hokkien, you have come to the right place. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of saying “who” in Hokkien. We will also provide you with some tips, examples, and variations. Let’s get started!

Formal Ways to Say “Who” in Hokkien

When it comes to formal language, Hokkien has a few words you can use to ask “who.” Here are some examples:

1. Lūn-sī: This is the most common formal word used to say “who” in Hokkien. It can be used in various situations and is widely understood.
2. Thó-lūn-sī: This term is more polite and respectful. It is commonly used in formal conversations or when addressing elders.
3. Thó-guān: While not specifically meaning “who,” this term is often used in official or formal settings to ask for a person’s identity.

Here are some example sentences using formal expressions:

Hokkien: Lūn-sī siar-lí ê lâng?

Translation: Who is the owner of this store?

Hokkien: Thó-lūn-sī sī siu-chiáu kúi-kúi?

Translation: Who is that young lady?

Informal Ways to Say “Who” in Hokkien

Informal language varies from region to region and among different age groups. In Hokkien, there are a variety of ways to ask “who” in a casual context. Here are some popular informal expressions:

1. Lūi: This term is commonly used in casual conversations among friends and family members. It has a friendly and relaxed tone.
2. Siar-lí ê chûi: Although it literally means “whose,” this phrase is also used informally to ask “who.” It is often used in everyday situations.
3. A-nā: This term is often used among close friends or when talking to someone of the same age group. It adds a touch of familiarity and informality to the conversation.

Here are some examples of informal expressions:

Hokkien: Chiah siar-lí ê chûi?

Translation: Whose car is this?

Hokkien: A-nā lūi boē?

Translation: Who is going with you?

Tips and Regional Variations

When using the formal and informal ways to say “who” in Hokkien, keep the following tips in mind:

• Regional Variations: Hokkien is spoken across various regions, and there may be slight variations in vocabulary and pronunciation. The formal and informal expressions mentioned earlier are generally understood among different Hokkien speakers, but some variations might arise in specific regions.
• Politeness: When using formal expressions, it is crucial to maintain a respectful tone. Addressing someone politely is considered appropriate in most situations, especially when talking to seniors or people you are not familiar with.
• Context: Just like in any language, using the appropriate expressions depends on the context. Formal expressions are more suitable for official or business settings, while informal expressions are commonly used among friends and family members.
• Familiarity: Informal expressions add a touch of familiarity to the conversation. Make sure to use them appropriately, considering your relationship with the person you are speaking to.

Remember, practice makes perfect! The more you expose yourself to Hokkien language and culture, the better you will become at understanding and using different expressions for “who.”

Now that you have learned some formal and informal ways to say “who” in Hokkien, don’t hesitate to start practicing. With time and dedication, you’ll become more comfortable using this versatile word in various contexts.

Happy learning!