龙
lóng
Dragon · trad. 龍
龙 (lóng) is the iconic mythical creature in Chinese culture, symbolizing power, strength, good fortune, and imperial authority. Unlike Western dragons, Chinese dragons are typically benevolent and associated with water and weather.
What does 龙 (lóng) mean?
龙 (lóng) means “dragon” in English.
When to use it
Neutral. It's a common noun and appears in many cultural contexts. For example, people born in a certain year might say they 'belong to the dragon' (属龙).
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “LOHNG” with a rising tone, similar to saying “long” but with your voice going up at the end.
Other ways to say it
- 神龙shénlóngdivine dragon (often in mythology)
- 龙年lóngniánYear of the Dragon (zodiac sign)
- 龙舟lóngzhōudragon boat (for festivals)
Examples
中国龙是吉祥的象征。
Zhōngguó lóng shì jíxiáng de xiàngzhēng.
Chinese dragons are symbols of good fortune.
我出生在龙年。
wǒ chūshēng zài lóngnián.
I was born in the Year of the Dragon.
端午节有龙舟比赛。
Duānwǔjié yǒu lóngzhōu bǐsài.
There are dragon boat races during the Dragon Boat Festival.
Pro tip: In Chinese culture, dragons are benevolent and revered creatures, often associated with water and bringing rain, which is quite different from the often malevolent, fire-breathing dragons in Western folklore.
Related phrases
中国龙 · Ancient china dragon真龙 · Imperial dragon龙王 · Dragon king
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