我的女朋友
wǒ de nǚ péng yǒu
My girlfriend
我的女朋友 (wǒ de nǚpéngyou) is the most common way to say “my girlfriend” in Mandarin Chinese. 女朋友 (nǚpéngyou) literally means “female friend,” but in context, it clearly refers to a romantic partner. The possessive 的 (de) can often be omitted, making 我女朋友 (wǒ nǚpéngyou) very common.
When to use it
Neutral and widely understood. For “my boyfriend,” use 我的男朋友 (wǒ de nánpéngyou) or 我男朋友. For a more serious, long-term partner, especially if living together or engaged, some might use 对象 (duìxiàng, “partner”) or 伴侣 (bànlǚ, “companion/partner”), though 女朋友 is still appropriate.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “wuh-duh NYOO-pung-yoh.” The '女' (nǚ) is a third tone, a dip then rise, similar to saying 'nyoo' with a slight dip. '朋' (péng) is a rising tone, like 'pung' going up. '友' (you) is a light, neutral tone.
Other ways to say it
- 我女朋友wǒ nǚ péng yǒumy girlfriend (common, 'de' omitted)
- 女票nǚ piàogirlfriend (casual internet slang)
- 对象duì xiàngpartner (can be boyfriend or girlfriend, often implies a serious relationship)
Examples
这是我的女朋友，小丽。
zhè shì wǒ de nǚ péng yǒu ， xiǎo lì 。
This is my girlfriend, Xiao Li.
我女朋友很喜欢旅行。
wǒ nǚ péng yǒu hěn xǐ huan lǚ xíng 。
My girlfriend really likes to travel.
你有没有女朋友？
nǐ yǒu méi yǒu nǚ péng yǒu ？
Do you have a girlfriend?
Pro tip: The possessive particle 的 (de) is often omitted when talking about close relationships, like family members or romantic partners. So, while 我的女朋友 is correct, 我女朋友 is more frequently heard in casual conversation.
Related phrases
我爱你 · I love you爱 · Love我想你 · I miss you
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