How to Say Money in Chinese | 30 Money Phrases in Mandarin

Welcome to our guide on how to say money in Chinese! In this article, we will explore the various ways to say “money” in Chinese, as well as its cultural significance and usage in different contexts. China has a rich history and language that reflects its complex culture and traditions. Understanding how to say basic words like “money” in Chinese can not only help with communication while traveling or doing business in China, but also provide insight into the language and culture. So let’s dive into the world of Chinese language and explore how to say “money”!

Part 1: How to say Money in Chinese?

There are several ways to say “money” in Chinese, depending on the context and usage. The most common and general term for money in Chinese is “钱” (qián). It is pronounced as “chien” in Mandarin and can be written using simplified or traditional characters. This term encompasses all forms of currency, including coins and bills.

Another commonly used term for money in Chinese is “金钱” (jīnqián), which literally translates to “golden money”. This term has a more formal and literary connotation, and it is often used in business or academic settings. It can also be used to refer to wealth or finances as a whole.

Part 2: 7 Basic Vocabulary for Money in Chinese

To further expand your knowledge of how to say “money” in Chinese, here are some other common terms related to money that you may come across:

• 财富 (cáifù) – wealth
• 现金 (xiànjīn) – cash
• 银行 (yínháng) – bank
• 银币 (yínbì) – silver coin
• 信用卡 (xìnyòngkǎ) – credit card
• 借贷 (jièdài) – borrowing and lending
• 货币 (huòbì) – currency

It’s important to note that Chinese also has regional dialects, and some of these terms may vary slightly in pronunciation or usage. So it’s always best to check with a native speaker or refer to a reputable dictionary for accurate translations.

6 Examples of How to Use these Words in Sentences:

Here are some examples of how you can use these words in sentences related to money:

• 我有很多钱。 (Wǒ yǒu hěn duō qián.) – I have a lot of money.
• 我想用信用卡付款。(Wǒ xiǎng yòng xìnyòngkǎ fùkuǎn.) – I would like to pay with a credit card.
• 我把钱存入银行。(Wǒ bǎ qián cún rù yínháng.) – I deposited the money in the bank.
• 我的财富不仅仅是金钱。(Wǒ de cáifù bù jǐnjǐn shì jīnqián.) – My wealth is not just money.
• 他借贷了很多钱，现在还不起。(Tā jièdài le hěn duō qián, xiànzài hái bù qǐ.) – He borrowed a lot of money and can’t pay it back now.
• 这个国家的货币是人民币。(Zhègè guójiā de huòbì shì rénmínbì.) – The currency of this country is RMB.

Part 3: 9 Currency Names and Symbols in Chinese

Many languages have their own names and symbols for currency, and Chinese is no exception. Here are some of the most commonly used currencies in Chinese:

• 人民币 (rénmínbì) – Chinese Yuan or Renminbi (RMB)
• 美元 (měiyuán) – US Dollar
• 欧元 (ōuyuán) – Euro
• 英镑 (yīngpóund) – British Pound
• 日元 (rìyuán) – Japanese Yen
• 韩元 (hányuán) – South Korean Won
• 加拿大元 (jiānádà yuán) – Canadian Dollar
• 澳门元 (àomén yuán) – Macau Pataca
• 港币 (gǎngbì) – Hong Kong Dollar

Part 4: 6 Money Values and Numerals in Chinese

In Chinese culture, numbers have symbolic meanings and are often used in relation to money. Here’s a quick overview of the most commonly used numerical values for money in Chinese:

• 一 (yī) – one
• 十 (shí) – ten
• 百 (bǎi) – hundred
• 千 (qiān) – thousand
• 万 (wàn) – ten thousand
• 亿 (yì) – hundred million

It’s also important to note that in Chinese, the number four is often associated with bad luck and death, so it is best to avoid using it when talking about money or giving gifts of money.

Part 5: 7 Practical Phrases for Talking About Money in Chinese

Now that you have a better understanding of how to say and write “money” in Chinese, here are some practical phrases and sentences that you can use when talking about money:

• 请问，这个东西多少钱？(Qǐngwèn, zhège dōngxī duōshǎo qián?) – Excuse me, how much is this item?
• 我可以用信用卡付款吗？(Wǒ kěyǐ yòng xìnyòngkǎ fùkuǎn ma?) – Can I pay with credit card?
• 你方便找开发票吗？(Nǐ fāngbiàn zhǎo kāifāpiào ma?) – Can you provide a receipt?
• 我想换些零钱。(Wǒ xiǎng huàn xiē língqián.) – I need some change.
• 你可以给我一点折扣吗？(Nǐ kěyǐ gěi wǒ yīdiǎn zhékòu ma?) – Can you give me a discount?
• 我想借钱。(Wǒ xiǎng jiè qián.) – I need to borrow money.
• 这些纪念币值得收藏。(Zhèxiē jìniànbì zhídé shōucáng.) – These commemorative coins are worth collecting.

If you want to know how to pronounce “Money” in Chinese, book a free class and let Wukong Chinese teachers teach you.

Part 6: FAQs about Money in Chinese

Q1: What is the cultural significance of numbers in relation to money in Chinese?

In Chinese culture, certain numbers have specific meanings and associations. For example, the number eight is considered lucky and auspicious, representing wealth and prosperity. Conversely, the number four is associated with bad luck and should be avoided when talking about money or giving monetary gifts. Numbers are often used in combination to give a larger or more favorable value.

Q2: How do Chinese people typically pay for goods or services?

Chinese people commonly use cash, credit cards, mobile payment apps such as Alipay or WeChat Pay, or traditional forms of payment like bank transfers or checks. It’s always best to check with the individual or business for their preferred method of payment. keep in mind that some small businesses or street vendors may only accept cash.

Summary:

Learning how to say “money” in Chinese can provide valuable insight into the language and culture of one of the world’s oldest civilizations. From basic vocabulary to currency names and practical phrases, this guide has covered all you need to know about talking about money in Chinese.

So keep practicing and expanding your knowledge, and who knows – it may just come in handy on your next trip to China!  So go ahead and impress your Chinese friends with your newfound knowledge of how to say “money” in Chinese – 钱 (qián)! Happy learning!