名字
míng zi HSK 1

English Meaning

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📚 Example Sentences

我名字好。
Wǒ míngzi hǎo.
My name is good.
他名字大。
Tā míngzi dà.
His name is big.
这名字好。
Zhè míngzi hǎo.
This name is good.
我的名字是安娜。
Wǒ de míngzì shì Ānnà.
My name is Anna.
请在这里写下你的名字。
Qǐng zài zhèlǐ xiě xià nǐ de míngzì.
Please write your name here.

💡 Memory Tip

Break it down: '名' (míng) means 'name' or 'fame', and '字' (zi) is a common noun suffix. Think of it as 'name-word'—the word that is your name. You can also associate it with the common question '你叫什么名字?' (What's your name?).

📝 Usage Notes

This word is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, in spoken and written Chinese. It is commonly used in everyday conversations to ask for or give someone's name, as well as in official documents.

📖 Grammar Points

Commonly used in the structure: Subject + 叫 + [名字]. For example, '他叫李明' (He is called Li Ming). It can also be used with verbs like 取 (to choose/give a name) or 改 (to change a name).

🏯 Cultural Notes

In Chinese culture, names often carry significant meaning, with characters chosen for their auspicious or positive connotations. It's common to ask someone's name early in a conversation as a polite gesture. Surnames come first, followed by given names.

🔄 Similar Words

Compared to '名称' (míngchēng), which is more formal and often used for objects, organizations, or titles, '名字' is more personal and casual, typically for people or pets. '姓' (xìng) specifically means 'surname' or 'family name', while '名字' usually refers to the full name or given name.

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