快乐
kuàile
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.
What does 快乐 (kuàile) mean?
快乐 (kuàile) means “happy” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “quick joy.”
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gāoxìnghappy, glad, pleased (often for a specific event)
- 开心kāixīnhappy, joyful, cheerful (feeling good inside)
- 幸福xìngfúblissful, fortunate, long-term happy
Examples
祝你生日快乐！
zhù nǐ shēngrì kuàile!
Happy birthday to you!
他是一个快乐的孩子。
tā shì yí ge kuàile de háizi.
He is a happy child.
我今天过得很开心。
wǒ jīntiān guò de hěn kāixīn.
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美丽 · Beautiful
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