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March 24, 2026
宝贝(寶貝)bǎobèi(bao3bei4)
宝贝 (bǎobèi) refers to a treasured object or something precious, often used in affectionate contexts to denote a darling or baby. It can also describe a cowry shell, historically considered a form of currency, and in some contexts, it can imply a person with questionable value or character.
Frequency#296DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, calling someone 宝贝 is a common way to express love or endearment, especially between parents and children, reflecting the importance of familial bonds.
Memory Tip
Imagine a shiny golden treasure chest overflowing with jewels (宝). The chest is so precious that you call it your 'baby' (贝) because you cherish it deeply. This connection helps you remember both the pronunciation and meaning.
Meanings of 宝贝
bǎobèi(bao3bei4)
1treasured object
2treasure
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 宝贝
宝贝Simplified
寶貝Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
人名míngcíproper noun (pr.n.)Part of Speech
#296Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L5IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 宝贝
Podcast: 宝贝
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AI Study Notes for 宝贝
Quick Contrast
爱人 (àirén) - use 宝贝 (bǎobèi) for something precious or dear, while 爱人 (àirén) specifically refers to a romantic partner.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a shiny golden treasure chest overflowing with jewels (宝). The chest is so precious that you call it your 'baby' (贝) because you cherish it deeply. This connection helps you remember both the pronunciation and meaning.
Usage Notes
When using 宝贝, it’s often in informal settings, especially among friends or family. A common mistake is using it in overly formal contexts; instead, save it for casual interactions. Be cautious with the tone, as the third tone can sometimes be mispronounced.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 5 word, 宝贝 connects well with other vocabulary related to affection or value. Students should focus on its emotional connotations and practice using it in sentences that convey warmth or endearment.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, calling someone 宝贝 is a common way to express love or endearment, especially between parents and children, reflecting the importance of familial bonds.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistakenly use 宝贝 in formal situations or with people they don't know well, which can come off as overly familiar. For example, saying '你是我的宝贝' (Nǐ shì wǒ de bǎobèi) to a colleague is inappropriate; instead, use their name or title.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 宝贝
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Grammar Patterns of 宝贝
宝贝 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). It carries 6 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
“爸爸，我想和你一起去。”——“好吧，好吧，小____。”
"I want to go with you, Daddy."—"Now, now, sweetheart."
" Come, dearest child!'said Hester encouragingly, and stretching out both her arms. "
10
你的宝贝要吃饭了, 哎呀乖宝贝.
nǐ de bǎo bèi yào chī fàn le, , āi yā guāi bǎo.
Your baby wants his dinner, bless his little cotton socks.
Cultural Notes for 宝贝
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, calling someone 宝贝 is a common way to express love or endearment, especially between parents and children, reflecting the importance of familial bonds.
Frequently Asked Questions about 宝贝
While 宝贝 is commonly used for children or in affectionate contexts, it can also refer to adults in a playful or romantic way.
No, 宝贝 is typically used in informal speech or writing, and should be avoided in formal contexts.
Synonyms include 亲爱的 (qīn'ài de, dear) or 爱人 (àirén, beloved), depending on the context.
