What does qipao 旗袍 mean in Chinese?
The “qipao” (旗袍) is a traditional Chinese dress for women. It is a one-piece, high-necked, figure-hugging dress with distinctive Chinese features such as a mandarin collar, side slits, and frog buttons.
Examples of Using “Qipao”
Here are some examples of “qipao” being used in everyday Chinese conversations:
Mary: 我们中文系晚宴要穿中国传统服装,我想穿旗袍。
Wǒmen zhōngwén xì wǎnyàn yào chuān zhōngguó chuántǒng fúzhuāng, wǒ xiǎng chuān qípáo.
Our Chinese department banquet requires traditional Chinese dress, I want to wear a qipao.
Jane: 我也打算穿旗袍,红色的很漂亮。我们可以一起去裁缝店订做旗袍。
Wǒ yě dǎsuàn chuān qípáo, hóngsè de hěn piàoliang. Wǒmen kěyǐ yīqǐ qù cáifēng diàn dìngzuò qípáo.
I also plan to wear a qipao, red ones are so pretty. We can go to the tailor to have qipaos custom-made together.
Mary: 好呀,我已经等不及想穿上旗袍参加晚宴了!
Hǎo ya, wǒ yǐjīng děngbùjí xiǎng chuān shàng qípáo cānjiā wǎnyàn le! Great!
I can’t wait to wear the qipao to the banquet!
FAQ about “Qipao”
What does “旗袍” literally mean?
The characters 旗 (qí) means “flag” and 袍 (páo) means “robe.” So 旗袍 (qípáo) literally translates to “flag robe.”
What are some key features of the qipao?
Distinctive features include a high neck, fitted waist, side slits to allow movement, silk material, and Chinese-style decorative buttons. Modern variations come in different colors and patterns.
Who wears the qipao?
Traditionally worn by women, the qipao is considered a feminine dress. It is often worn at Chinese cultural events or weddings.
What is a qipao-inspired dress called?
A loose, Western-style dress inspired by the qipao is called a cheongsam. It has a similar high collar and side slits.
I hope this overview helps explain what a qipao is and how to use the term in Chinese! Let me know if you have any other questions.
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