亲爱的
qīn ài de
My love · trad. 親愛的
亲爱的 (qīn ài de) is a common and affectionate way to address a romantic partner, close family member, or even a very good friend in writing. It translates to "my dear," "darling," or "my love."
When to use it
Intimate and warm. Most commonly used for romantic partners, but can also be used for children or as a salutation in letters/emails to close friends. For a spouse, people often use specific terms like 老公 (husband) or 老婆 (wife).
How to pronounce it
Sounds like "CHIN-eye-duh." The first syllable is a high, flat tone; the second is a rising tone; and the third is a light, neutral tone.
Other ways to say it
- 我的爱人wǒ de ài rénmy lover / my spouse (more descriptive)
- 宝贝bǎo bèibaby / darling (very affectionate, often for partners or children)
- 老公 / 老婆lǎo gōng / lǎo póhusband / wife (common intimate terms for spouses)
Examples
亲爱的，你今天过得好吗？
qīn ài de ， nǐ jīn tiān guò dé hǎo ma ？
My love, how was your day today?
亲爱的，我一直都在想你。
qīn ài de ， wǒ yì zhí dōu zài xiǎng nǐ 。
My love, I've been thinking of you.
亲爱的妈妈，祝您生日快乐！
qīn ài de mā ma ， zhù nín shēng rì kuài lè ！
Dear Mom, happy birthday! (used for family)
Pro tip: While "亲爱的" is often used for romantic partners, it's also a very common way to start a letter or email to a close friend or family member, similar to "Dear [Name]" in English.
Related phrases
我爱你 · I love you爱 · Love我想你 · I miss you
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