100+ Country Names And Nationalities In Chinese

Do you, as a Chinese learner, have a thorough understanding of the origins of the Chinese character for China “中国” (Zhōngguó)? If that’s not the case, we’ll take you back in time to find out what China was once called

中国 (Zhōngguó) literally means the Central Kingdom. It means that China is considered to be the center of civilization. However, when we go back, we see that dynastic names were used to identify imperial China.

Over each historical era, China became known as Great Ming (大明, Dàmíng), Great Qing (大清, Dà qīng), Han (漢, hàn), and Tang (唐, táng) after the ruling dynasties. Later, the international country naming system required a standardized name that would not be subject to ongoing revision. This led to Zhōngguó being chosen as the primary country name.

Historically, China also had names for other countries and nationalities, which, too, changed over time. Below we’ll teach you what the modern Chinese names for countries and nationalities around the world are today.

Country Names And Nationalities In Chinese

The rich history of a beautiful country like China will likely spark your interest, but before you book your flight, let’s take some time to brush up on our Chinese language skills and learn more about country names and nationalities in Chinese. So that you can tell a Chinese person your country name and introduce your international companions.

国家 （guójiā) means country, nation, and kingdom. Therefore, 国 (guó) is often used to indicate a country. You simply put this Chinese word after the name of the country. Let’s see some examples from common country names.

• Character 美 + character 国 = 美国 (měi guó) – The United States
• Character 英 + character 国 = 英国 (yīng guó) – The United Kingdom (England)

How To Ask Or Respond To Questions About Countries And Nationalities In Chinese

People from foreign countries are more likely to be asked their nationality in Chinese rather than English. Read on for some sample questions and how to politely answer in Chinese if you want to impress them with your local language knowledge.

Example 1

Q: 你的家乡在哪？ (Nǐ de jiāxiāng zài nǎ?) – Where is your hometown?

A: 我的家乡是英国。 (Wǒ de jiāxiāng shì yīng guó) – My hometown is in the UK.

Example 2

Q: 你是哪国人？ (Nǐ shì nǎ guórén?) – Where are you from?

A: 我來自英國 (Wǒ láizì yīngguó) – I’m from Britain.

Example 3

Q: 你是英国人吗？(Nǐ shì yīng guó rén ma?) – Are you British?

A: 是的，我是英国人 (Shì de, wǒ shì yīng guó rén) Yes, I’m British.

B. 我不是英国人。 (Wǒ bùshì yīng guó rén.) No, I’m not British.

The answers to the sample questions above show how simple it is to build the Chinese vocabulary for various nationalities. Simply add the word 人 (rén), which means a person at the end of the term.

• 美国 + 人 = 美国人 (měi guó rén) – American
• 英国 + 人 = 英国人 (Yīng guó rén) – British

Let’s check out the Chinese language’s list of country names and nationalities. There are a lot of Chinese characters to learn, so relax and take your time.

非洲 (Fēi Zhōu) – Africa

Here is how to say African nations in Chinese.

亚洲 (Yà Zhōu) – Asia

Here is how to say Asian nations in Chinese.

欧洲 (Ōu Zhōu) – Europe

Here is how to say European nations in Chinese.

北美洲 (Běi Měi Zhōu) – North America

Here is how to say North American nations in Chinese.

中美洲 (Zhōng Měi Zhōu) – Central America

Here is how to say Central American nations in Chinese.

加勒比海 (Jiā Lè Bǐ Hǎi) – Caribbean (sea)

Here is how to say Caribbean nations in Chinese.

南美洲 (Nán Měi Zhōu) – South America

Here is how to say South American countries in Chinese.

大洋洲 (Dà Yáng Zhōu) – Oceania

Here’s how to say Oceanic countries in Chinese.

In Summary

If you can memorize a list of country names in Chinese, you can remember a list of nationalities in Chinese. Simply add the word 人 (rén) to the end of the country’s name, and you’ll have the right words without trying to learn more new vocabulary. Is it a time saver to hear that? You can now confidently introduce yourself to native Chinese speakers and chat meaningful conversations. On top of that, you can connect your Chinese friends with fellow foreigners.

Learn Chinese With The Ling App

Studying the Chinese language alongside understanding Chinese culture is a great way to keep your interest and enthusiasm for learning the language fresh. And there’s much more to know about this ancient land. However, if you are interested in learning more about China, brushing up on your Chinese language abilities is a smart move. Obtaining a solid grasp of Chinese will open up several doors for you. And we have the greatest option for you if you’re seeking a language learning application to assist you in reaching that goal!

If you’re serious about learning Chinese, the Ling App is the only tool you need. To help you achieve your goals, we have compiled a vast library of useful phrases and words written in Chinese characters. And since you may study from your mobile device whenever and wherever you choose, setting your timetable is as simple as downloading our app. In addition, we include Chinese audio so you can follow along and hear how the native speakers pronounce each character.

Most Chinese learners chose Ling to help them succeed, so why not join them? Download the Ling App from the Google PlayStore and Apple AppStore now, and prepare to be fluent in Chinese soon!