How to Say Father in Chinese
爸爸
bàba
爸爸 (bàba) means dad or father in everyday Mandarin.
Pronunciation and tones
The first bà has a sharp, falling fourth tone. The second ba is a light neutral tone.
Two everyday examples
我爸爸在家。
Wǒ bàba zài jiā.
My father is at home.
爸爸喝水。
Bàba hē shuǐ.
Dad drinks water.
Usage and common mistakes
Choose the right level of formality
爸爸 (bàba) is conversational. 父亲 (fùqīn) is more formal and common in written descriptions.
Do not repeat the falling tone
Only the first syllable has a full fourth tone. Keep the second ba short and unstressed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you say father in Chinese?
Say 爸爸 (bàba) for dad or father in everyday Mandarin.
What does 父亲 mean?
父亲 (fùqīn) means father in a more formal style.
Can I call my dad 爸?
Yes. 爸 (bà) is a common shorter way to address your dad.