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宝宝 — meaning in English: baby
bǎobǎo · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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baby
冠军
guànjūn
宝宝
bǎobǎo
裁判
cáipàn
客厅
kètīng
旅行者
lǚxíng zhě
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informal
very common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 宝宝 (bǎobǎo) when talking to infants or young children in a loving or affectionate manner. It's common in family settings, during playtime, or when comforting a child. For example, a mother might say, '宝宝, come here!' when calling her baby.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 小宝宝 (xiǎo bǎobǎo), which means 'little baby.' While 宝宝 (bǎobǎo) is more general and affectionate, 小宝宝 (xiǎo bǎobǎo) adds an extra layer of endearment, making it particularly suitable for very young infants.
Culture
The term 宝宝 (bǎobǎo) is a double reduplication of the character 宝 (bǎo), which means 'precious' or 'treasure.' This reflects the cultural significance of children in Chinese society, where they are often viewed as the most precious part of a family. Interestingly, the use of such affectionate terms can also be seen in various regional dialects, showcasing the universal love for children across different Chinese communities.
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