快乐
kuài lè
Happy · trad. 快樂
快乐 (kuàilè) is a general and versatile word for "happy" or "joyful" in Mandarin Chinese. It describes a state of happiness, often used for general well-being or in wishes.
When to use it
Neutral. While 快乐 is broadly applicable, other words like 高兴 (gāoxìng) are often used for being "glad" or "pleased" about a specific event, and 开心 (kāixīn) conveys a more lighthearted, cheerful, or "happy-hearted" feeling. For deeper, more enduring happiness or bliss, use 幸福 (xìngfú).
How to pronounce it
Sounds like "kwai-LUH." The first syllable, 快, is a high-level first tone, and the second, 乐, is a falling fourth tone.
Other ways to say it
- 高兴gāo xìnghappy, glad, pleased (often for a specific event)
- 开心kāi xīnhappy, joyful, cheerful (feeling good inside)
- 幸福xìng fúblissful, fortunate, long-term happy
Examples
祝你生日快乐！
zhù nǐ shēng rì kuài lè ！
Happy birthday to you!
他是一个快乐的孩子。
tā shì yí gè kuài lè de hái zi 。
He is a happy child.
我今天过得很开心。
wǒ jīn tiān guò dé hěn kāi xīn 。
I had a very happy day today. (feeling cheerful)
Pro tip: While 快乐 is a general 'happy,' 高兴 often describes being 'glad' or 'pleased' about something specific, and 开心 refers to a more internal, cheerful, or lighthearted feeling.
Related phrases
很好吃 · Delicious好 · Good
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