If you’re learning Chinese, one of the first family words you’ll want to know is how to say “dad.” It may seem simple at first, but Chinese actually has several different words for “father,” and each one is used in a slightly different situation.
In this guide, you’ll learn the most common ways to say “dad” in Chinese, when to use each word, and how tone and context matter.
The Most Common Word for Dad: 爸爸 (bà ba)
The most widely used word for “dad” in Mandarin Chinese is 爸爸 (bà ba).
This is the word young children use, and it’s also commonly used by adults when speaking directly to their father. It sounds warm, natural, and affectionate—similar to “dad” or “daddy” in English.
Example
爸爸，我回来了。
Bàba, wǒ huílái le.
Dad, I’m home.
Tone Tip
Pronunciation is important:
- The first bà is fourth tone (falling tone).
- The second ba is neutral and softer.
If you’re unsure which word to use, 爸爸 (bà ba) is always a safe and natural choice.
A Casual Short Form: 爸 (bà)
Another common way to say “dad” is 爸 (bà).
This is a shortened form of 爸爸. It sounds relaxed and natural, and it’s often used by teenagers and adults in everyday conversation. It’s closer to saying “Dad” rather than “Daddy.”
Example
爸，你吃饭了吗？
Bà, nǐ chīfàn le ma?
Dad, have you eaten?
Both 爸爸 and 爸 are appropriate when speaking directly to your father. The difference is mostly in tone and level of affection.
A More Formal Word: 父亲 (fù qīn)
The word 父亲 (fù qīn) means “father.”
This term is more formal and is usually used in writing, speeches, essays, or formal contexts. It is not typically used when calling your father at home.
Example
他是一个好父亲。
Tā shì yí gè hǎo fùqīn.
He is a good father.
In general, 父亲 is used when talking about someone’s father rather than addressing your own father directly.
Regional Differences: What About Cantonese?
Mandarin is the most widely spoken variety of Chinese, but there are many regional varieties as well.
For example, in Cantonese (spoken in Hong Kong and parts of southern China), the characters are the same, but the pronunciation is different.
In standard Hong Kong Cantonese:
- 爸爸 is commonly pronounced baa4 baa1 when used as a noun (e.g., “my father”).
- When directly addressing one’s father, it is often pronounced baa4 baa4 in natural speech.
- 爸 is pronounced baa4.
As you can see, tones can shift slightly depending on context and usage. While the written characters remain the same, pronunciation varies across different varieties of Chinese.
Choosing the Right Word
The word you choose can reflect your relationship and the situation.
- Use 爸爸 (bà ba) for a warm, natural, everyday tone.
- Use 爸 (bà) for a casual and slightly more grown-up tone.
- Use 父亲 (fù qīn) in formal writing or when speaking formally about someone’s father.
In everyday life, most learners will use 爸爸 or 爸.
Final Example
Once you feel comfortable with the pronunciation, try saying:
爸爸，我爱你。
Dad, I love you.
Learning how to say “dad” in Chinese isn’t just about memorizing vocabulary. It’s also about understanding tone, context, and relationships—an important part of Chinese language and culture.
Start with 爸爸, practice the tones, and you’ll be speaking naturally in no time.
