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B1 noun #3,000 most common 14 min read

情侣

qinglv Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 情侣 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 情侣 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should recognize '情侣' (qínglǚ) as a word for 'a couple'. You don't need to know all the complex nuances, but you should understand that it refers to two people who are 'boyfriend and girlfriend'. You will often see it with the number 'one' and the measure word '对' (duì), making the phrase '一对情侣' (yī duì qínglǚ). This is a useful word for describing people you see in basic pictures or simple stories. For example, if you see a man and a woman holding hands, you can say '他们是一对情侣' (They are a couple). It is one of the first words you learn when talking about relationships, alongside '朋友' (friend) and '家人' (family). Focus on the basic meaning: two people in love. You might also see it in simple signs at a park or a cafe. Just remember it is a noun and refers to the two people together. Don't worry about using it in complex sentences yet; just being able to identify a couple as '情侣' is a great start for a beginner learner of Chinese.

By the A2 level, you can start using '情侣' (qínglǚ) in more descriptive sentences. You should understand that it is a collective noun and is almost always used with the measure word '对' (duì). You can use it to describe common activities, such as '这对情侣在看电影' (This couple is watching a movie). You might also encounter the term in shopping contexts, like '情侣装' (couple clothes) or '情侣鞋' (couple shoes), which are very popular in China. At this level, you should be able to distinguish between '朋友' (friends) and '情侣' (romantic couple). You are learning to talk about people's relationships in a bit more detail. You can also use simple adjectives to describe them, like '幸福的情侣' (happy couple) or '年轻的情侣' (young couple). It is important to start noticing how '情侣' is used in daily life, such as in advertisements for Valentine's Day. The word is very functional for describing social scenes and understanding basic marketing in Chinese-speaking environments.

At the B1 level, you should have a firm grasp of '情侣' (qínglǚ) and be able to use it in various contexts. You understand that while it means 'couple,' it typically refers to those who are dating rather than those who are married (for whom '夫妻' is more appropriate). You can use '情侣' to discuss social trends, such as the popularity of 'matching couple outfits' or how couples celebrate festivals like Qixi. You should also be comfortable using it as a modifier in compound nouns like '情侣套餐' (couple's set meal) or '情侣座' (couple's seat). Your sentences can become more complex: '这对情侣打算下个月去云南旅游' (This couple plans to travel to Yunnan next month). You should also be aware of the emotional connotation of the word—it suggests a certain level of intimacy and public recognition of the relationship. At this level, you might also start to see the word in news articles or blog posts about relationships and dating culture. You can use it to express your observations about people around you or characters in a movie.

At the B2 level, your understanding of '情侣' (qínglǚ) should include its cultural implications and its place within the wider vocabulary of relationships. You should be able to explain the difference between '情侣', '恋人', and '伴侣' to others. You understand that '情侣' is the most common social descriptor, while '恋人' is more romantic and '伴侣' is more serious and long-term. You can use '情侣' in discussions about sociology or psychology, such as '情侣之间的信任问题' (trust issues between couples). You are also likely to encounter the word in more sophisticated media, such as relationship advice columns or social commentaries on dating in the digital age. You should be able to use the word fluently in both spoken and written Chinese, choosing the correct register. For instance, you might use '情侣' when gossiping with friends but might choose '伴侣' when writing a formal essay about life partners. Your use of measure words and modifiers should be natural and error-free, and you should understand the subtle social signals associated with the term in Chinese culture.

At the C1 level, you possess a nuanced understanding of '情侣' (qínglǚ) and can appreciate its use in literature, high-level journalism, and academic contexts. You understand how the term has evolved and how it is used to construct social identities. You can analyze the 'couple economy' (情侣经济) and its impact on Chinese consumerism. You are familiar with literary metaphors for couples, like '鸳鸯' (mandarin ducks), and can contrast them with the modern, more secular term '情侣'. You can discuss complex relationship dynamics using this term, such as the challenges faced by '异地情侣' (long-distance couples) in the context of modern labor migration. Your vocabulary is rich enough to use '情侣' alongside sophisticated idioms and classical references. You might explore how the concept of '情侣' is portrayed in contemporary Chinese cinema versus traditional opera. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a lens through which you can examine and discuss Chinese social values, romantic ideals, and the intersection of tradition and modernity.

At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over '情侣' (qínglǚ) and its various connotations across all registers and historical contexts. You can engage in deep philosophical or sociological debates about the nature of the '情侣' identity in post-modern Chinese society. You might discuss the linguistic shift from traditional terms to the modern '情侣' and what that says about the changing nature of romantic love and individualism in China. You can effortlessly switch between formal, informal, and literary terms for couples, choosing the one that perfectly fits the rhetorical context. You might write a critique of how media commercializes the '情侣' status or an analysis of '情侣' dynamics in 20th-century Chinese literature. Your understanding is so deep that you can pick up on subtle ironies or subversions of the term in avant-garde art or satirical writing. You understand the word's role in the broader discourse of gender, family, and social structure in the Chinese-speaking world. For you, '情侣' is a versatile tool for high-level expression, capable of conveying everything from simple observation to profound social commentary.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

情侣 in 30 Seconds

情侣 (qínglǚ) means a romantic couple or lovers, typically used for people who are dating but not yet married.
It is a collective noun usually paired with the measure word '对' (duì) to refer to the two people together.
The word is extremely common in daily life, marketing (like 'couple outfits'), and social media contexts.
It differs from '夫妻' (married couple) and '恋人' (a more poetic or individual term for a lover).

The Chinese term 情侣 (qínglǚ) is a quintessential noun used to describe a romantic couple or a pair of lovers. Unlike many English terms that might be ambiguous regarding the nature of a relationship, '情侣' specifically targets the romantic bond between two individuals who are typically in a dating phase but not necessarily married. The word is composed of two characters: 情 (qíng), which translates to emotion, affection, or love, and 侣 (lǚ), which refers to a companion or associate. When combined, they evoke the image of 'companions bound by affection.' This term is incredibly common in modern Chinese society, appearing in everything from daily conversations to marketing campaigns and social media posts. It is the standard way to refer to 'sweethearts' or 'a couple' when they are seen in public or discussed in a general social context.

Social Context: In China, the concept of '情侣' is often associated with specific behaviors and consumer habits. For instance, you will frequently hear the term in relation to '情侣装' (qínglǚ zhuāng), which are matching outfits worn by couples to publicly display their relationship status. This cultural phenomenon highlights the word's role in defining a visible social unit. Whether it is a pair of teenagers on their first date or a long-term committed pair, '情侣' is the go-to descriptor that recognizes their romantic entanglement without the formal weight of terms like '夫妻' (fūqī - married couple).
Emotional Resonance: The term carries a sense of sweetness and intimacy. It is often used to describe the 'honeymoon phase' of a relationship where the focus is on mutual affection and shared experiences. In literature and media, '情侣' are often the protagonists of romantic tragedies or comedies, representing the idealistic and sometimes tumultuous nature of young love. It suggests a level of exclusivity and emotional commitment that goes beyond mere friendship.

那对年轻情侣手牵手在公园散步，看起来非常幸福。(Nà duì niánqīng qínglǚ shǒu qiān shǒu zài gōngyuán sànbù, kàn qǐlái fēicháng xìngfú.) - That young couple is walking hand in hand in the park; they look very happy.

Furthermore, the term is neutral to positive in its connotation. It is rarely used in a derogatory sense. Instead, it celebrates the companionship of two people. In the digital age, '情侣' has also become a keyword in e-commerce, where products are specifically designed for pairs. From '情侣表' (couple watches) to '情侣套餐' (couple set meals at restaurants), the word facilitates a whole economy centered around romantic partnership. Understanding this word is essential for navigating Chinese social dynamics and understanding the nuances of how relationships are categorized and celebrated in the Sinosphere. It reflects a societal recognition of romantic love as a distinct and important phase of life, separate from the familial obligations of marriage but more significant than casual dating.

Linguistic Nuance: It is important to distinguish '情侣' from '恋人' (liànrén). While they are often interchangeable, '恋人' is slightly more formal or literary, often used in songs and poetry, whereas '情侣' is the everyday spoken term. Additionally, '情侣' always refers to the pair together, while you can refer to one person as your '恋人' (though '男朋友' or '女朋友' is more common for individuals).

餐厅专门为情侣准备了浪漫的晚餐套餐。(Cāntīng zhuānmén wèi qínglǚ zhǔnbèile làngmàn de wǎncān tàocān.) - The restaurant specially prepared a romantic dinner set for couples.

Using 情侣 (qínglǚ) correctly involves understanding its role as a collective noun. In Chinese grammar, it typically functions as the subject or object of a sentence, often preceded by the measure word '对' (duì). Because it refers to two people as a single unit, the verbs that follow it often relate to shared actions or states of being. For example, you might describe what a couple is doing together, where they are going, or how they appear to an outside observer. The word is versatile enough to be used in both formal descriptions and casual gossip.

As a Subject: When '情侣' is the subject, it often takes adjectives to describe the nature of the relationship. Common modifiers include '年轻的' (niánqīng de - young), '热恋中的' (rèliàn zhōng de - deeply in love), or '异地' (yìdì - long-distance). For example: '这对情侣经常一起去旅行' (This couple often travels together). Here, the focus is on the collective identity of the two people.
As an Object: As an object, '情侣' often follows verbs like '看到' (kàndào - to see), '羡慕' (xiànmù - to envy), or '祝福' (zhùfú - to bless). For instance: '我很羡慕那些恩爱的情侣' (I really envy those loving couples). In this context, the speaker is observing the couple from an external perspective.

电影院里坐满了看电影的情侣。(Diànyǐngyuàn lǐ zuò mǎnle kàn diànyǐng de qínglǚ.) - The cinema was full of couples watching movies.

Another frequent usage is in compound nouns where '情侣' acts as a modifier. This is extremely common in marketing and product descriptions. By adding '情侣' before another noun, you indicate that the item is intended for a couple to use together or in a matching fashion. Examples include '情侣空间' (a shared digital space for couples on apps like QQ or WeChat), '情侣头像' (matching profile pictures), and '情侣路' (a scenic road often frequented by lovers, like the famous one in Zhuhai). This attributive use showcases the word's flexibility in describing lifestyle choices centered around romantic partnership.

Descriptive Phrases: You will often see '情侣' paired with '一对' (yī duì). For example, '他们真是一对天造地设的情侣' (They are truly a match made in heaven). The use of '一对' emphasizes the 'twoness' and the complementary nature of the relationship. Without the measure word, the sentence might feel incomplete or overly abrupt in many contexts.

这对情侣决定明年结婚。(Zhè duì qínglǚ juédìng míngnián jiéhūn.) - This couple has decided to get married next year.

The word 情侣 (qínglǚ) is ubiquitous in the Chinese-speaking world, found in a wide variety of environments from high-end shopping malls to quiet residential neighborhoods. If you are walking through a popular shopping district like Sanlitun in Beijing or Xintiandi in Shanghai, you will undoubtedly see advertisements targeting '情侣'. The term is heavily utilized in the retail sector to promote products that symbolize unity and shared identity. For instance, during festivals like Valentine's Day (February 14th) or the Qixi Festival (the 7th day of the 7th lunar month), the word is plastered on storefronts, offering '情侣折扣' (couple discounts) or '情侣礼盒' (couple gift boxes).

Entertainment and Media: In the realm of entertainment, '情侣' is a staple term. Reality TV shows often feature '明星情侣' (celebrity couples) who share their daily lives with the audience. On social media platforms like Little Red Book (Xiaohongshu) or Douyin (TikTok), influencers often tag their posts with #情侣日常 (couple's daily routine) to showcase their lifestyle. This usage reinforces the idea that being part of a '情侣' is a significant social identity that is worth sharing and celebrating publicly.
Public Spaces: In public spaces, '情侣' is used to describe the demographic of a place. A park might be described as a '情侣约会的好地方' (a good place for couples to date). Similarly, hotels often offer '情侣主题房' (couple-themed rooms) which are decorated specifically to appeal to romantic pairs. Even in transportation, you might hear announcements or see signs regarding '情侣座' (couple seats) on certain high-end buses or in specialized cinema halls.

情人节那天，到处都是手捧鲜花的情侣。(Qíngrénjié nà tiān, dàochù dōu shì shǒu pěng xiānhuā de qínglǚ.) - On Valentine's Day, there were couples holding flowers everywhere.

Furthermore, the word appears frequently in psychological and sociological discussions about modern relationships. Articles might discuss '情侣之间的沟通' (communication between couples) or '情侣如何处理矛盾' (how couples handle conflicts). This shows that the word is not just for superficial descriptions but is also used in serious discourse about the dynamics of human connection. In the workplace, while less common, you might hear about '办公室情侣' (office couples), usually in the context of HR policies or office gossip. The word's presence across these diverse domains—from commercial to personal to professional—underscores its importance in the Chinese linguistic landscape. It is a word that captures the essence of partnership in the modern era, reflecting both traditional values of companionship and contemporary trends of public romantic expression.

Online Communities: Online, '情侣' is a core keyword for content creators. There are thousands of '情侣博主' (couple bloggers) who create content specifically for other couples, offering advice on everything from travel destinations to relationship maintenance. This digital ecosystem has further solidified '情侣' as a key identity marker in the 21st century.

这对情侣在社交媒体上分享了他们的旅行照片。(Zhè duì qínglǚ zài shèjiāo méitǐ shàng fēnxiǎngle tāmen de lǚxíng zhàopiàn.) - This couple shared their travel photos on social media.

While 情侣 (qínglǚ) is a relatively straightforward word, learners often make several common mistakes regarding its scope, measure words, and confusion with similar terms. One of the most frequent errors is using '情侣' to refer to a married couple. While not technically 'wrong' in a very broad sense, it is culturally and linguistically more accurate to use '夫妻' (fūqī) for married people. '情侣' carries a connotation of dating or 'sweethearts,' and using it for a couple married for twenty years might sound slightly infantilizing or overly informal, though it is sometimes used playfully.

Measure Word Confusion: Another common mistake is using the wrong measure word. Beginners often default to '个' (gè), saying '两个情侣' (liǎng gè qínglǚ). While understandable, the correct measure word is '对' (duì), as in '一对情侣' (yī duì qínglǚ). Using '对' emphasizes that they are a pair, a single unit. Using '个' makes them sound like two separate individuals who happen to be lovers, which lacks the idiomatic 'togetherness' of the correct measure word.
Confusion with '爱人' (Àirén): Learners often confuse '情侣' with '爱人'. In mainland China, '爱人' typically means 'spouse' (husband or wife). If you refer to your girlfriend or boyfriend as your '爱人' in a casual conversation, people might assume you are married. '情侣' refers to the pair, while '爱人' refers to the person. You cannot say 'We are a 情侣' to mean 'We are each other's spouse.' You are '一对情侣' (a pair of lovers).

错误：他们是两个情侣。(Incorrect: They are two qinglu.)
正确：他们是一对情侣。(Correct: They are a pair of qinglu.)

Additionally, learners sometimes misapply the term to platonic friends who are just close. In Chinese, there is a specific term for 'best friends' or 'buddies' (like '闺蜜' for girls or '哥们' for boys). Using '情侣' to describe two close friends of the opposite sex can lead to awkward misunderstandings or the assumption that they are secretly dating. It is a word strictly reserved for romantic involvement. Lastly, be careful with the pronunciation of '侣' (lǚ). The 'ü' sound is tricky for many English speakers; it requires rounding the lips as if saying 'oo' but positioning the tongue as if saying 'ee'. Mispronouncing it as 'lu' (like the 'u' in 'blue') might make the word unrecognizable to native speakers.

Register Errors: Using '情侣' in a very formal legal document might be inappropriate where '配偶' (pèiyǒu - spouse) or '当事人' (dāngshìrén - the parties involved) is required. Conversely, using it in extremely informal slang contexts might feel a bit 'standard' or 'textbook.' In slang, people might use '两口子' (liǎngkǒuzi) for a couple, though this usually implies they live together or are married.

注意：不要把“情侣”用在普通朋友身上。(Note: Do not use 'qinglu' for ordinary friends.)

To truly master 情侣 (qínglǚ), one must understand its relationship with other terms for 'couple' or 'lovers' in Chinese. The language has a rich vocabulary for human connections, and choosing the right word depends on the level of formality, the stage of the relationship, and the specific context. While '情侣' is the most common general-purpose term, several alternatives exist that offer different nuances.

恋人 (Liànrén): '恋人' is very close to '情侣' but feels more romantic and poetic. It is often used in the lyrics of love songs or in romantic novels. While '情侣' describes the pair as a social unit (e.g., 'a couple at a restaurant'), '恋人' focuses more on the emotional bond between them. You can say '他是我的恋人' (He is my lover), but you wouldn't typically say '他是我的情侣' (you would say '我们是情侣').
夫妻 (Fūqī): '夫妻' refers specifically to a husband and wife. It is a formal and legal term. Once a '情侣' gets married, they become '夫妻'. In social settings, '夫妻' implies a level of permanence and family structure that '情侣' does not necessarily carry.
伴侣 (Bànlǚ): '伴侣' means 'partner' or 'companion.' It is a very broad and respectful term. It can refer to a life partner, a spouse, or even a long-term romantic partner. It is often used in more serious or mature contexts, such as '人生伴侣' (life partner). It lacks the 'youthful dating' vibe of '情侣'.

虽然他们还没结婚，但他们已经是多年的生活伴侣了。(Although they aren't married yet, they have been life partners for many years.)

Other terms include '鸳鸯' (yuānyāng - mandarin ducks), a literary metaphor for a devoted couple, often used in traditional weddings or classical literature. In modern slang, you might hear '两口子' (liǎngkǒuzi), which is very colloquial and usually refers to a married couple or a couple living together. There is also '对象' (duìxiàng), which is a common way to refer to one's boyfriend or girlfriend, particularly in Northern China, as in '谈对象' (to be in a relationship). Understanding these distinctions helps you navigate different social circles and media types with greater precision. For example, a news report about a couple's heroic deed might use '一对情侣' or '一对伴侣', while a gossip column might use '这对CP'.

Comparison Table

情侣 (Qínglǚ): General, dating, social unit.
恋人 (Liànrén): Poetic, emotional, focuses on the individual.
夫妻 (Fūqī): Formal, married.
伴侣 (Bànlǚ): Serious, long-term, respectful.
对象 (Duìxiàng): Colloquial, refers to the individual partner.

古代文学中常用“鸳鸯”来比喻恩爱的情侣。(In ancient literature, 'mandarin ducks' are often used as a metaphor for a loving couple.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient Chinese, '侣' was often used to describe friends or travelers going together. The specific romantic use in '情侣' became much more prominent in the modern era as Western concepts of 'dating' and 'couples' were translated and adapted.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /tʃʰiŋ³⁵ ly²¹⁴/

US /tʃʰiŋ³⁵ ly²¹⁴/

In Chinese, both syllables are typically given equal weight, but the tones must be clear. The stress doesn't function like English word stress.

Rhymes With

名 (míng) 明 (míng) 平 (píng) 行 (xíng) 女 (nǚ - partial rhyme with lǚ) 雨 (yǔ - partial rhyme with lǚ) 许 (xǔ - partial rhyme with lǚ) 旅 (lǚ - perfect rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'q' as 'k' (e.g., 'king' instead of 'ching').
Pronouncing 'ü' as 'u' (e.g., 'lu' instead of 'lǚ').
Failing to perform the rising tone on 'qíng'.
Failing to perform the falling-rising tone on 'lǚ'.
Confusing 'qíng' with 'qǐng' (third tone).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The characters are moderately common but '侣' is slightly more advanced than basic A1 characters.

Writing 4/5

Writing '情' and '侣' requires attention to stroke order and radicals (忄 and 亻).

Speaking 4/5

The 'ü' sound in 'lǚ' is notoriously difficult for English speakers to master.

Listening 3/5

Easily recognizable in context due to its frequent use in media.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

人 (Person) 好 (Good) 爱 (Love) 朋友 (Friend) 对 (Pair)

Learn Next

恋爱 (To be in love) 结婚 (To get married) 伴侣 (Partner) 约会 (To date) 浪漫 (Romantic)

Advanced

相亲 (Blind date) 媒人 (Matchmaker) 两情相悦 (Mutual love) 海枯石烂 (Eternal love)

Grammar to Know

Measure words for pairs (对)

一对情侣 (A couple)

Using '是' for identity

他们是情侣。 (They are a couple.)

Adjective + 的 + Noun

幸福的情侣 (Happy couple)

Noun as a modifier

情侣装 (Couple clothes)

Preposition '为' (for)

为情侣准备的礼物 (Gifts prepared for couples)

Examples by Level

他们是一对情侣。

They are a couple.

Uses the basic structure: Subject + 是 + Measure Word + Noun.

那对情侣很开心。

That couple is very happy.

Uses '很' (hěn) to link the noun to an adjective.

这里有一对情侣。

There is a couple here.

Uses '有' (yǒu) to indicate existence.

情侣在喝咖啡。

The couple is drinking coffee.

Simple Subject + Verb + Object.

我不认识这对情侣。

I don't know this couple.

Negative form using '不' (bù).

情侣在看书。

The couple is reading books.

Simple action sentence.

这对情侣真漂亮。

This couple is really beautiful.

Uses '真' (zhēn) for emphasis.

他们是情侣吗？

Are they a couple?

Question form using '吗' (ma).

这对情侣穿着情侣装。

This couple is wearing matching outfits.

Introduces the compound noun '情侣装'.

很多情侣去那个电影院。

Many couples go to that cinema.

Uses '很多' (hěnduō) as a quantifier.

我和情侣一起吃饭。

I am eating with a couple.

Uses '和...一起' (hé... yīqǐ) for accompaniment.

这对情侣在上海旅游。

This couple is traveling in Shanghai.

Uses '在' (zài) for location.

他们是一对很有名的情侣。

They are a very famous couple.

Uses '有名' (yǒumíng) as an adjective.

这对情侣买了一对戒指。

This couple bought a pair of rings.

Uses '了' (le) for completed action.

情侣们喜欢在情人节送花。

Couples like to give flowers on Valentine's Day.

Generic statement about a group.

那对情侣是我的朋友。

That couple are my friends.

Possessive '我的' (wǒ de).

这对情侣已经谈了三年的恋爱了。

This couple has been dating for three years already.

Uses '谈恋爱' (tán liàn'ài) to describe the relationship status.

餐厅推出了专门的情侣套餐。

The restaurant launched a special couple's set meal.

Uses '情侣' as a modifier for '套餐'.

作为情侣，沟通是非常重要的。

As a couple, communication is very important.

Uses '作为' (zuòwéi) to mean 'as'.

这对情侣在为未来的生活做计划。

This couple is making plans for their future life.

Uses '为...做计划' (wèi... zuò jìhuà).

很多年轻情侣选择在周末去郊游。

Many young couples choose to go on an outing on weekends.

Compound sentence with '选择' (xuǎnzé).

这对情侣看起来非常恩爱。

This couple looks very much in love.

Uses '恩爱' (ēn'ài) to describe marital/romantic love.

他们虽然是情侣，但性格完全不同。

Although they are a couple, their personalities are completely different.

Uses '虽然...但...' (suīrán... dàn...) for contrast.

这对情侣在考虑要不要同居。

This couple is considering whether or not to live together.

Uses '考虑' (kǎolǜ) and '要不要' (yào bùyào).

这对情侣克服了异地恋的重重困难。

This couple overcame the many difficulties of a long-distance relationship.

Uses '克服' (kèfú) and '异地恋' (yìdìliàn).

社交媒体上充满了情侣们的甜蜜互动。

Social media is full of sweet interactions between couples.

Uses '充满' (chōngmǎn) and '互动' (hùdòng).

这对情侣在价值观上达成了一致。

This couple has reached an agreement on their values.

Uses '价值观' (jiàzhíguān) and '达成一致' (dáchéng yīzhì).

不少情侣在结婚前会进行婚前财产公证。

Many couples undergo prenuptial property notarization before getting married.

Uses '婚前' (hūnqián) and '公证' (gōngzhèng).

这对情侣的恋情得到了双方家长的支持。

The romance of this couple received support from both sets of parents.

Uses '得到...的支持' (dédào... de zhīchí).

情侣之间偶尔的争吵是可以理解的。

Occasional quarrels between couples are understandable.

Uses '之间' (zhījiān) and '可以理解' (kěyǐ lǐjiě).

这对情侣在创业过程中互相扶持。

This couple supported each other during the process of starting a business.

Uses '创业' (chuàngyè) and '互相扶持' (hùxiāng fúchí).

随着时间的推移，这对情侣的感情越来越深。

With the passage of time, the feelings of this couple grew deeper and deeper.

Uses '随着...的推移' (suízhe... de tuīyí).

这对情侣的结合被视为两个家族利益的联姻。

The union of this couple was seen as an alliance of two families' interests.

Uses '结合' (jiéhé) and '联姻' (liányīn).

文学作品中经常探讨情侣在理想与现实之间的挣扎。

Literary works often explore the struggle of couples between ideals and reality.

Uses '探讨' (tàntǎo) and '挣扎' (zhēngzhá).

这对情侣通过长期的磨合，达到了极高的默契度。

Through long-term adjustment, this couple achieved a very high degree of tacit understanding.

Uses '磨合' (móhé) and '默契度' (mòqìdù).

在现代社会，情侣关系的稳定性面临着诸多挑战。

In modern society, the stability of couple relationships faces many challenges.

Uses '稳定性' (wěndìngxìng) and '面临' (miànlín).

这对情侣在艺术创作上有着共同的追求和见解。

This couple shares common pursuits and insights in artistic creation.

Uses '见解' (jiànjiě) and '追求' (zhuīqiú).

该研究分析了情侣在消费决策中的性别差异。

The study analyzed gender differences in consumption decision-making among couples.

Uses '消费决策' (xiāofèi juécè) and '性别差异' (xìngbié chāyì).

这对情侣的爱情故事被改编成了家喻户晓的电影。

The love story of this couple was adapted into a world-famous movie.

Uses '改编' (gǎibiān) and '家喻户晓' (jiāyùhùxiǎo).

情侣间的心理博弈往往是复杂而微妙的。

The psychological games between couples are often complex and subtle.

Uses '心理博弈' (xīnlǐ bóyì) and '微妙' (wēimiào).

这对情侣的悲剧命运折射出那个时代的社会动荡。

The tragic fate of this couple reflects the social turmoil of that era.

Uses '折射' (zhéshè) and '动荡' (dòngdàng).

在解构主义视角下，情侣身份被赋予了多重文化意义。

From a deconstructionist perspective, the identity of a couple is endowed with multiple cultural meanings.

Uses '解构主义' (jiěgòu zhǔyì) and '赋予' (fùyǔ).

这对情侣的相处模式挑战了传统的性别分工观念。

The way this couple interacts challenges traditional concepts of gender division of labor.

Uses '相处模式' (xiāngchǔ móshì) and '挑战' (tiǎozhàn).

情侣之间的情感联结超越了物质条件的束缚。

The emotional bond between couples transcends the constraints of material conditions.

Uses '情感联结' (qínggǎn liánjié) and '超越' (chāoyuè).

这对情侣在精神层面上达到了高度的契合。

This couple achieved a high degree of compatibility on a spiritual level.

Uses '精神层面' (jīngshén céngmiàn) and '契合' (qìhé).

文章探讨了数字时代情侣隐私权的界定与保护。

The article explored the definition and protection of privacy rights for couples in the digital age.

Uses '隐私权' (yǐnsīquán) and '界定' (jièdìng).

这对情侣的离合聚散始终牵动着读者的心弦。

The partings and reunions of this couple always tug at the readers' heartstrings.

Uses '离合聚散' (líhé jùsàn) and '牵动心弦' (qiāndòng xīnxián).

在权力话语的博弈中，情侣关系往往沦为某种政治工具。

In the game of power discourse, couple relationships often degenerate into some kind of political tool.

Uses '权力话语' (quánlì huàyǔ) and '沦为' (lúnwéi).

Common Collocations

一对情侣

情侣装

情侣套餐

情侣座

情侣表

热恋情侣

异地情侣

明星情侣

情侣空间

情侣路

Common Phrases

情侣吵架

— A couple having a fight. It describes a common social scenario.

情侣吵架是常有的事。

情侣档

— A couple working together, often in entertainment. It implies they are a team.

他们是演艺圈著名的情侣档。

情侣关系

— A romantic relationship. It is a formal way to describe the tie between two people.

他们确定了情侣关系。

情侣酒店

— A love hotel or a hotel themed for couples. These are popular in many Asian cities.

这家情侣酒店很有特色。

情侣头像

— Matching profile pictures on social media. It is a popular way for Gen Z to show their status.

我们要不要换个情侣头像？

情侣手机壳

— Matching phone cases for couples. A common small gift.

她送了他一个情侣手机壳。

情侣打卡地

— A popular spot for couples to visit and take photos. Often found on travel blogs.

这个海滩是著名的情侣打卡地。

小情侣

— A young or cute couple. Adding '小' (xiǎo) makes it sound more affectionate or informal.

那对小情侣真可爱。

老情侣

— An older couple or a couple who has been together for a long time. Less common than '老夫妻'.

他们真是一对恩爱的老情侣。

情侣蹦极

— Couples bungee jumping together. A metaphor for taking a leap of faith together.

他们去挑战了情侣蹦极。

Often Confused With

情侣 vs 夫妻 (fūqī)

Fūqī is for married couples; qínglǚ is usually for dating couples.

情侣 vs 朋友 (péngyǒu)

Péngyǒu is platonic friends; qínglǚ is romantic.

情侣 vs 爱人 (àirén)

Àirén usually means spouse in Mainland China, while qínglǚ refers to the pair.

Idioms & Expressions

"情投意合"

— To be perfectly suited to each other; to share the same interests and feelings.

他们俩情投意合，很快就成了情侣。

Literary

"两情相悦"

— Both parties are in love with each other; mutual affection.

只有两情相悦，情侣关系才能长久。

Literary

"天造地设"

— A match made in heaven; perfectly matched.

他们真是一对天造地设的情侣。

Literary

"恩爱夫妻"

— A deeply loving married couple. (Included for contrast).

他们是邻居眼中羡慕的恩爱夫妻。

Neutral

"破镜重圆"

— A broken mirror joined together; a couple reuniting after a breakup or separation.

这对情侣在分手一年后破镜重圆了。

Literary

"相亲相爱"

— To love and cherish each other.

希望这对情侣能够永远相亲相爱。

Neutral

"如胶似漆"

— Like glue and lacquer; to be deeply attached to each other (often used for new couples).

那对小情侣整天如胶似漆的。

Colloquial

"举案齐眉"

— To respect each other deeply (originally referring to a wife's respect for her husband).

他们这对情侣相敬如宾，举案齐眉。

Literary

"比翼双飞"

— To fly side by side; a metaphor for a happy couple.

祝愿这对情侣在事业和爱情上都能比翼双飞。

Literary

"青梅竹马"

— Childhood sweethearts; a couple who grew up together.

他们是青梅竹马的一对情侣。

Neutral

Easily Confused

情侣 vs 恋人 (liànrén)

Both mean lovers/couple.

Qínglǚ is more social and common for 'the pair'; liànrén is more poetic and can refer to the individual.

他们是一对情侣。 (They are a couple.) / 他是我的恋人。 (He is my lover.)

情侣 vs 伴侣 (bànlǚ)

Both refer to partners.

Bànlǚ is more formal and implies a long-term, life-sharing commitment.

她是我的终身伴侣。

情侣 vs 对象 (duìxiàng)

Both used in the context of dating.

Duìxiàng is colloquial and refers to the person you are dating, not the pair.

我今天带对象回家。

情侣 vs 情人 (qíngrén)

Sounds like 'lovers'.

Qíngrén can sometimes imply an extramarital affair, though it's also used in 'Valentine's Day' (情人节).

他背着妻子找了个情人。

情侣 vs 鸳鸯 (yuānyāng)

Both mean a pair of lovers.

Yuānyāng is a literary metaphor, often used for traditional or tragic love stories.

他们像一对苦命鸳鸯。

Sentence Patterns

他们是[一对]情侣。

他们是一对情侣。

[这对]情侣在[做某事]。

这对情侣在吃饭。

作为[情侣]，应该[做某事]。

作为情侣，应该互相信任。

这对情侣[已经]谈了[时间]的恋爱了。

这对情侣已经谈了五年的恋爱了。

[情侣]之间的[抽象名词]是[形容词]的。

情侣之间的默契是无法替代的。

这对情侣的[名词]折射出[社会现象]。

这对情侣的消费观折射出当代社会的物欲。

虽然他们是[情侣]，但是[转折点]。

虽然他们是情侣，但是经常吵架。

这里有很多[形容词]的情侣。

这里有很多年轻的情侣。

Word Family

Nouns

情侣 (Couple)

爱情 (Love)

感情 (Emotion/Feeling)

伴侣 (Partner)

侣伴 (Companion - rare)

Verbs

谈情说爱 (To talk about love/date)

钟情 (To be enamored with)

Adjectives

情侣款 (Couple-style)

多情 (Passionate/Sentimental)

无情 (Heartless)

恋爱 (Romantic love)

结婚 (To marry)

约会 (To date)

分手 (To break up)

单身 (Single)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily speech and media.

Common Mistakes

Using '两个情侣' → 一对情侣
'个' is too generic. '对' is the specific measure word for pairs and sounds much more idiomatic.
Calling married people '情侣' → 夫妻
While '情侣' means lovers, '夫妻' is the socially correct term for a husband and wife.
Saying '我们情侣' to mean 'We are a couple' → 我们是情侣
You need the verb '是' (shì) to link the subject and the noun identity.
Pronouncing 'lǚ' as 'lu' → lǚ (with the ü sound)
The 'ü' sound is distinct. 'Lu' sounds like 'road' or 'deer' and will confuse listeners.
Using '情侣' for platonic friends → 朋友
'情侣' strictly implies romance. Using it for friends suggests they are dating.

Tips

Use '对' correctly

Always pair '情侣' with '对' (duì) when counting. This is the most natural way to group them in Chinese.

Matching Culture

Understand that '情侣款' (couple versions) of products are a huge market in China. It's a key vocabulary word for shopping.

Master the 'ü'

Spend extra time on the 'lǚ' sound. If you get it right, your Chinese will sound much more advanced.

Noun Modifier

Remember that '情侣' can act as an adjective before other nouns, like '情侣座' (couple seat).

Clarifying Relationships

If someone asks '你们是情侣吗？' and you aren't, quickly say '不是，我们只是朋友' to avoid awkwardness.

Expand to '恋爱'

Learn the verb '谈恋爱' (tán liàn'ài - to date) alongside '情侣' to describe the action and the identity together.

Holiday Keywords

During Qixi or Valentine's Day, look for this word in ads to see how it's used in real-world marketing.

Radical Recognition

Notice the heart radical in '情' (qíng) and the person radical in '侣' (lǚ). This helps you remember the meaning.

TV Shows

Watch Chinese dating shows; you will hear '情侣' used constantly to describe the participants.

Qinglu vs. Fuqi

Use '情侣' for dating, '夫妻' for marriage. This distinction shows your grasp of Chinese social structures.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Qing' as the 'Heart' (忄) feeling 'Green' (青) and fresh with love. 'Lu' is a 'Person' (亻) with two 'Mouths' (吕) - two people talking or kissing!

Visual Association

Imagine two people wearing identical t-shirts (情侣装) walking through a park. The matching shirts help you remember they are a 'pair' (一对).

Word Web

爱情 (Love) 对 (Measure word) 约会 (Date) 情侣装 (Couple clothes) 情人节 (Valentine's Day) 恩爱 (Loving) 甜蜜 (Sweet) 恋人 (Lovers)

Challenge

Try to find three pairs of people today and decide if they are '情侣' or just '朋友'. Say '他们是一对情侣' in your head whenever you see a couple.

Word Origin

The term is a combination of two ancient characters. '情' (qíng) appears in the early scripts as a combination of the heart radical (忄) and a phonetic component (青), originally meaning essence or feelings. '侣' (lǚ) consists of the person radical (亻) and '吕' (lǚ), which originally depicted two mouths or objects connected, signifying companionship.

Original meaning: Companions who share deep emotional feelings.

Sino-Tibetan

Cultural Context

Generally a very safe and positive word. However, in very conservative older circles, excessive PDA (public displays of affection) by '情侣' might still be frowned upon.

In English, we often just say 'a couple' or 'they are dating.' '情侣' is slightly more specific to the pair as a unit than 'dating' is.

The Legend of the Butterfly Lovers (梁山伯与祝英台) - the ultimate tragic Chinese 情侣. The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl (牛郎织女) - the origin of the Qixi Festival for 情侣. The movie 'In the Mood for Love' (花样年华) - explores the complex emotions of a potential 情侣.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Shopping Mall

情侣折扣
情侣装在哪？
这是一对情侣表。
买一送一给情侣。

Restaurant

情侣套餐
我们要靠窗的情侣座。
两位是情侣吗？
送给情侣的小甜点。

Social Media

发情侣照
换情侣头像
情侣日常分享
艾特你的情侣

Cinema

买情侣座的票
情侣厅
适合情侣看的电影
情侣爆米花套餐

Park

情侣散步
很多情侣在约会
情侣拍照圣地
一对对的情侣

Conversation Starters

"你觉得那两个人是情侣吗？ (Do you think those two people are a couple?)"

"你和你的情侣是怎么认识的？ (How did you and your partner meet?)"

"情人节的时候，情侣们一般做什么？ (What do couples usually do on Valentine's Day?)"

"你喜欢穿情侣装吗？ (Do you like wearing matching couple outfits?)"

"这对明星情侣你喜欢吗？ (Do you like this celebrity couple?)"

Journal Prompts

描述你今天在街上看到的一对情侣。 (Describe a couple you saw on the street today.)

如果你有一对情侣朋友，你最羡慕他们什么？ (If you have a couple as friends, what do you envy most about them?)

你认为成为一对理想的情侣最重要的是什么？ (What do you think is most important for being an ideal couple?)

写一写你对‘情侣装’这种文化现象的看法。 (Write about your views on the cultural phenomenon of 'couple outfits'.)

想象一对情侣在五十年后的生活。 (Imagine the life of a couple fifty years from now.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It's better to call them '夫妻' (fūqī) because they are married. Calling them '情侣' might sound a bit strange or like you are emphasizing their dating-like romance rather than their marriage.

While traditionally used for heterosexual pairs, in modern urban contexts, it can be used for any romantic couple regardless of gender.

It refers to matching outfits worn by a couple. It's a very popular cultural trend in China to show the relationship is official and happy.

You should say '我们是情侣' (Wǒmen shì qínglǚ) or '我们是一对情侣' (Wǒmen shì yī duì qínglǚ).

It is a neutral, standard word. It is appropriate for almost all situations except for very formal legal documents.

No, it specifically implies a romantic relationship. Using it for friends would be confusing and suggest they are dating.

'情侣' is more common in daily speech and describes the pair as a social unit. '恋人' is more romantic and literary.

Always use '对' (duì). For example, '一对情侣' (yī duì qínglǚ).

Not necessarily. It just means they are in a romantic relationship. If they live together, you might say '同居的情侣' (tóngjū de qínglǚ).

You say '明星情侣' (míngxīng qínglǚ).