Meaning and Usage
"兄弟" primarily means "brothers" or "male siblings" in Chinese. It can also be used more broadly to refer to close male friends who share a bond like brothers. The term is often used in both family contexts and informal speech to express camaraderie.
Common Collocations
- 兄弟姐妹 (xiōngdì jiěmèi): siblings (brothers and sisters)
- 亲兄弟 (qīn xiōngdì): biological brothers
- 兄弟情 (xiōngdì qíng): brotherly affection or bond
Usage Notes
When referring to siblings, "兄弟" usually emphasizes male siblings, but can sometimes be used humbly to refer to siblings in general. In informal contexts, calling someone "兄弟" can express a close friendship or solidarity, similar to "bro" in English. Avoid confusing "兄弟" with "姐妹" which specifically means sisters.
Common Confusion
"兄弟" is sometimes used in a humble way to refer to siblings collectively, but if you want to specify sisters, use "姐妹". Also, "兄弟" can be used metaphorically for close friends, so context is important to understand the meaning.