抱抱
bàobao
Hug or carry me
抱抱 (bàobao) is a common and endearing way for children to ask for a hug or to be carried, often meaning "up, please!" It can also be used by adults to offer a hug.
What does 抱抱 (bàobao) mean?
抱抱 (bàobao) means “hug or carry me” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “hug hug.”
When to use it
Informal and affectionate, primarily used with or by children. Adults might use it when speaking to young children or in very intimate contexts.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “BAO-bao.” The first 抱 is a falling tone, and the second 抱 is usually said lightly with a neutral tone.
Other ways to say it
- 抱一下bào yíxiàgive a hug
- 抱我bào wǒhug me / carry me
- 要抱抱yào bàobaowant a hug / want to be carried
Examples
妈妈，抱抱！
māma, bàobao!
Mommy, hug me! / Mommy, carry me!
过来，我给你一个抱抱。
guòlai, wǒ gěi nǐ yí ge bàobao.
Come here, I'll give you a hug.
小狗喜欢被抱抱。
xiǎogǒu xǐhuan bèi bàobao.
The puppy likes to be hugged.
Pro tip: The doubling of 抱 (bào) makes the request or offer sound softer and more childlike, similar to how English speakers might say "huggy" or "cuddle."
Related phrases
该吃药了 · Time for your medicine亲一个 · Give me a kiss妈妈爱你 · Mommy loves you
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