How to Say Mother in Chinese
妈妈
māma
妈妈 (māma) means mom or mother in everyday Mandarin.
Pronunciation and tones
The first mā has a high, level first tone. The second ma is a short, light neutral tone.
Two everyday examples
我妈妈是老师。
Wǒ māma shì lǎoshī.
My mother is a teacher.
妈妈，我爱你。
Māma, wǒ ài nǐ.
Mom, I love you.
Usage and common mistakes
Everyday versus formal language
Use 妈妈 (māma) in everyday conversation. 母亲 (mǔqīn) is a more formal word for mother.
Keep the second syllable light
Do not give both syllables equal stress. The second ma is neutral, rather than another full first tone.
Frequently asked questions
How do you say mother in Chinese?
The everyday Mandarin word is 妈妈 (māma), meaning mom or mother.
What is the formal word for mother?
母亲 (mǔqīn) is the more formal word, often used in writing.
How do you say my mother?
Say 我妈妈 (wǒ māma). 我的妈妈 (wǒ de māma) is also correct.