Definition
亲爱的 (qīn ài de) is a fixed expression used as a term of endearment when directly addressing a loved one — a partner, child, or close friend. It is also the standard polite salutation in letters, cards, and formal written correspondence, placed before the addressee's name or relationship (e.g. ∼妈妈). It is not used as a descriptive adjective in third-person narration (e.g. not ∼的人).
f.e.
dearbeloved (term of endearment when addressing someone directly)dear (polite salutation in letters or cards)
Examples
- 亲爱的，！qīn ài de, nǐ huí lai le!Dear, you're back!
- 亲爱的，？qīn ài de māma, nín zuìjìn shēntǐ hǎo ma?Dear Mom, how have you been recently?
- ，亲爱的。Zhè shì wǒ tèyì wèi nǐ zhǔnbèi de, qīn ài de.I prepared this especially for you, dear.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.