Meaning and Usage
"儿子" (ér zi) specifically means "son" in Mandarin Chinese. It refers to a male child in relation to his parents. This word is very common in daily conversation when talking about family members.
Common Collocations
- "独生儿子" (dú shēng ér zi): only son
- "亲爱的儿子" (qīn ài de ér zi): dear son
- "儿子出生" (ér zi chū shēng): son is born
These collocations are frequently used in family contexts, emphasizing relationships or specific situations.
Usage Notes
When using "儿子," speakers often imply a close family relationship and sometimes express affection or responsibility. It is a neutral term suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Avoid confusing "儿子" with "孩子" (child), which is gender-neutral.