The Chinese language is one of the most complex in the world, and even swear words here have their own unique specifics. The Chinese rarely use rude words, as is customary in other languages. Their swear words often contain sarcasm, hidden insults, or even curses. Today, together with WomanEL, we will consider the Top 10 Chinese swear words, their meaning, and the situations in which they are used.
Content How the Chinese swear: features of obscene language in the Celestial EmpireTop 10 Chinese swear wordsWhy are Chinese swear words unique?
How the Chinese swear: features of obscene language in the Middle Kingdom
Chinese swearing has a deep cultural background. Unlike European languages, Chinese swearing is less vulgar and more metaphorical, puns, and creative similes. Some swear words sound so similar that a foreigner wouldn't even realize they were offended!
In China, it's important not to just say something rude, but to do it in a subtle way. Often, insults affect a person's family honor, intelligence, or even reincarnation.
Top 10 Chinese swear words
- 王八蛋 (wáng bā dàn) – “Turtle’s egg”. This is one of the most common swear words in China, meaning “scoundrel” or “scum”. The expression comes from the word “王八” (wáng bā), which means “turtle” – in Chinese culture it is a symbol of infidelity, as it was believed that a turtle could raise other people’s children.
- 傻瓜 (shǎ guā) – “Fool.” This expression is used when you want to call someone stupid or naive. It is not a very rude insult, but rather a colloquial expression that can be used to call someone a joke.
- 狗屁 (gǒu pì) – “Dog shit”. The literal translation of this expression is “dog farts”, but in meaning it is similar to our “nonsense” or “nonsense”.
- 滚蛋 (gǔn dàn) – “Roll out of here!” A rather rude expression that means “get out of here”, “get out of here”. Literally translated, it means “roll an egg”, which further enhances its imagery.
- 你有病吗？(Nǐ yǒu bìng ma?) – “Are you sick?” This phrase is used to mean “Are you crazy?” or “Are you okay?” In China, it is a fairly popular way to express displeasure or irritation.
- 去死吧！(Qù sǐ ba!) – “Go die!” This curse is very rude and should be used with caution. Its meaning is similar to our “You’re gone!” or even more harshly “May you perish!”.
- 吃屎吧 (chī shǐ ba) – “Eat shit!” This expression has a very offensive nature, similar to our “Go away…”.
- 見鬼去吧 (jiàn guǐ qù ba) – “Go to hell!” This phrase has an almost mystical connotation, as it literally means “Go to the ghosts.”
- 死三八 (sǐ sān bā) – “Nasty old woman.” This expression is used to insult women, and its meaning can be compared to our rude words addressed to girls.
- 笨蛋 (bèn dàn) – “Idiot.” One of the most neutral swear words, meaning “fool,” “idiot.” Often used in a friendly context.
Why are Chinese likes unique?
- They are often offensive, but they don't sound rude. To foreigners, some of them may sound like ordinary words.
- Many swear words have cultural connotations. For example, turtles indicate betrayal and pigs indicate stupidity.
- The Chinese love to use innuendo. Often, swearing sounds like a pun or a play on words.
Chinese nicknames have their own unique flavor. Many of them are based on sarcasm, wordplay, or ancient traditions. It is worth remembering that you should use them with caution in everyday life, because Chinese culture does not tolerate rudeness, and insults can be taken very seriously.
Also learn how to swear in Japan: 10 popular swear words and their meanings.