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A2 noun #9,500 most common 11 min read

表姐妹

biaojiemei Top 9,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 表姐妹 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 表姐妹 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that '表姐妹' (biǎo jiě mèi) means 'female cousins.' You might learn it when talking about your family. Think of it as a longer version of 'sisters' (姐妹) but for cousins. At this stage, don't worry too much about the 'Biao' vs 'Tang' rule. Just remember that if you have cousins who are girls, you can describe them using this word. You will mostly use it in simple sentences like '我有两个表姐妹' (I have two female cousins). It is a good word to expand your family vocabulary beyond just 'mother,' 'father,' and 'siblings.' Focus on the pronunciation of 'biǎo' (3rd tone), 'jiě' (3rd tone), and 'mèi' (4th tone). Even if you can't remember the 'Biao' rule yet, using this word is a great first step into the world of Chinese kinship terms, which are much more specific than English ones.

At the A2 level, you should start to understand the logic behind '表姐妹.' The word consists of '表' (biǎo), which means 'outside' or 'exterior,' and '姐妹' (jiě mèi), which means 'sisters.' This word specifically refers to female cousins who are *not* the children of your father's brothers. This usually means they have a different last name than you. You will use this word to describe your family tree or talk about who is coming to a family dinner. You should be able to use it with measure words, like '三个表姐妹' (three female cousins). You should also begin to recognize the difference between '表姐妹' (the group) and '表姐' (older female cousin) or '表妹' (younger female cousin). At this level, you are expected to correctly identify which cousins fit into this category based on a simple family diagram.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '表姐妹' in more complex social contexts. You should understand that this term is descriptive and not used for direct address. You might use it in a story about your childhood or when explaining your relationship to someone at a party. You should also be aware of the plural marker '们' (men), as in '我的表姐妹们' (my female cousins). You can start using it in sentences that involve comparisons or shared activities, such as '我和我的表姐妹们经常一起逛街' (My female cousins and I often go shopping together). At this stage, you should also be clear on the 'Biao' vs 'Tang' distinction, knowing that 'Tang' cousins are from the paternal uncle's side and 'Biao' cousins are from all other sides (maternal or paternal aunt). This level requires you to use the term accurately in both speaking and writing.

At the B2 level, you should understand the cultural and historical weight of the term '表姐妹.' You should know that '表' relatives were historically seen as 'outsiders' to the paternal clan, which influenced marriage and inheritance in old China. You can use this word in more formal discussions about family structures or social changes in China (like how the one-child policy affected these relationships). You should be able to handle more sophisticated grammar, such as using '表姐妹' as an object in a complex sentence: '我很难向外国人解释表姐妹和堂姐妹的区别' (It's hard for me to explain the difference between 'biao' and 'tang' female cousins to foreigners). You should also be familiar with related terms like '表亲' (biǎoqīn) for a more formal register and be able to distinguish when '表姐妹' is the most appropriate choice over more specific or more general terms.

At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of how '表姐妹' is used in literature and media. You should recognize how authors use these relationships to explore themes of family loyalty, social status, and gender roles. You should be able to discuss the linguistic evolution of kinship terms and how '表姐妹' functions as a collective noun that encompasses multiple genealogical paths (mother's brother's daughter, mother's sister's daughter, father's sister's daughter). You should also be comfortable using the term in high-level academic or professional contexts, such as sociology or law. For example, discussing the role of '表姐妹' in supporting each other in the modern workforce. Your usage should be flawless, reflecting an intuitive grasp of when to specify age (表姐/表妹) and when to use the collective term (表姐妹) for rhetorical effect or clarity.

At the C2 level, you possess a masterly command of '表姐妹' and its place within the vast web of Chinese kinship. You can explain the etymology of the character '表' and its transition from 'clothing' to 'outside' to its current genealogical use. You can engage in deep cultural analysis of classic texts like 'The Dream of the Red Chamber,' where '表姐妹' relationships are central to the narrative and social hierarchy. You should be able to navigate the most subtle register shifts, knowing exactly how the term would be used in a legal deposition versus a poetic reflection on family. You can also discuss regional variations or dialectal influences on the usage of kinship terms. At this level, you don't just use the word; you understand it as a key to the traditional Chinese world-view and its modern adaptations, using it with the same precision and cultural resonance as a native speaker with a background in classical studies.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

表姐妹 in 30 Seconds

表姐妹 (biǎo jiě mèi) refers specifically to female cousins from your mother's side or your father's sisters' side.
It is a collective noun and is never used to address a cousin directly; use '表姐' or '表妹' instead.
It differs from '堂姐妹' (táng jiě mèi), which refers only to your father's brothers' daughters (same surname).
This word is essential for navigating Chinese family gatherings and understanding traditional social structures and inheritance logic.

The term 表姐妹 (biǎo jiě mèi) is a cornerstone of the intricate Chinese kinship system, specifically used to identify female cousins who share a different surname or are related through maternal lines or paternal aunts. To understand this word, one must first grasp the concept of the 'exterior' relationship. In traditional Chinese culture, the family structure is divided into 'inner' (堂 táng) and 'outer' (表 biǎo) circles. The 'inner' circle consists of relatives who share the same paternal surname, typically the children of your father's brothers. The 'outer' circle, denoted by the prefix 表 (biǎo), includes everyone else: the children of your father's sisters, your mother's brothers, and your mother's sisters. Therefore, 表姐妹 refers to your female cousins from these three specific branches of the family tree.

Kinship Logic: The character '表' literally means 'surface' or 'outside,' indicating that these relatives were historically viewed as belonging to 'outside' families once their mothers married out. '姐妹' means 'sisters' (older and younger), so '表姐妹' functions as a collective noun for these female cousins.

过年的时候，我的所有表姐妹都聚在一起聊天。(During the New Year, all my female cousins gather together to chat.)

In modern China, while the strict patriarchal distinctions of the past have softened, the linguistic distinction remains vital. You would use this word when introducing a group of female cousins at a wedding, a funeral, or a Spring Festival gathering. It is a formal way to categorize them in a single breath. If you were speaking about a single cousin, you would more likely specify if she is an older cousin (表姐 biǎojiě) or a younger cousin (表妹 biǎomèi). However, when referring to them as a collective group or describing the relationship type in general, 表姐妹 is the standard term.

Social Context: This word is frequently used in biographical contexts or when explaining family dynamics to others. It carries a sense of warmth but also precise genealogical placement, which is highly valued in Chinese society.

她和她的表姐妹们关系非常好，经常一起去旅行。(She has a very good relationship with her female cousins and they often travel together.)

Historically, the distinction between '表' and '堂' was crucial for marriage laws. In ancient China, marrying a '堂' relative was strictly forbidden as they were considered the same clan, whereas marrying a '表' relative was sometimes encouraged to strengthen ties between different families. While such practices are long gone, the vocabulary remains as a linguistic fossil of that era. When you use 表姐妹, you are participating in a linguistic tradition that dates back thousands of years, reflecting the importance of the maternal line and the extended family network.

Modern Usage: In the era of the one-child policy, many Chinese people grew up without biological siblings. Consequently, '表姐妹' often occupy the emotional space that sisters would in other cultures, making this word particularly significant in modern social narratives.

虽然我是独生女，但我有很多表姐妹，所以我不觉得孤单。(Although I am an only child, I have many female cousins, so I don't feel lonely.)

Using 表姐妹 (biǎo jiě mèi) correctly requires an understanding of how collective nouns function in Chinese. Unlike English, where 'cousins' is gender-neutral and covers all branches, Chinese requires you to be specific about the gender and the branch. When you use 表姐妹, you are specifically referring to a group of female cousins or the general concept of such cousins. It is rarely used as a direct address (you wouldn't shout 'Hey, 表姐妹!'), but rather as a descriptive term in conversation.

As a Subject: When the cousins are the ones performing an action. '我的表姐妹们都在上海工作。' (My female cousins all work in Shanghai.) Here, '们' is added to emphasize plurality.

她的表姐妹明天要来北京旅游。(Her female cousins are coming to Beijing for a trip tomorrow.)

One common structural pattern involves the use of possessive particles. Since 表姐妹 is a relationship term, it is almost always preceded by a possessive pronoun like '我的' (my), '他的' (his), or '我们的' (our). In informal speech, the '的' can sometimes be dropped (e.g., '我表姐妹'), but keeping it is more standard and clear for learners. It is also important to note that 表姐妹 is an 'inclusive' term for both older and younger female cousins. If you know they are all older than you, you might say '表姐们'; if they are all younger, '表妹们'. Use 表姐妹 when they are a mix or when the age relative to you is unknown or irrelevant.

Specifying Numbers: When counting cousins, use the measure word '个' (gè) or '位' (wèi) for more respect. '我有三个表姐妹。' (I have three female cousins.)

他有两位漂亮的表姐妹。(He has two beautiful female cousins.)

In complex sentences, 表姐妹 can be part of a comparison or a list of family members. For example, '我不仅有兄弟，还有很多表姐妹。' (I not only have brothers, but also many female cousins.) This highlights the breadth of one's family. You might also use it when explaining the guest list for an event: '除了父母，我还邀请了几个表姐妹。' (Besides my parents, I also invited a few female cousins.)

With Adjectives: Common adjectives used with this term include '亲近的' (close), '远房的' (distant), or '好动的' (active). '我和远房表姐妹并不熟。' (I am not familiar with my distant female cousins.)

这些表姐妹从小就一起玩耍。(These female cousins have played together since childhood.)

Finally, consider the register. 表姐妹 is neutral. It is appropriate for both formal writing and casual conversation. In a legal or genealogical document, it provides the necessary precision. In a casual chat about family, it serves as a convenient group label. By mastering this word, you demonstrate a respect for the nuances of Chinese family values and the linguistic precision required to describe them.

You will encounter 表姐妹 (biǎo jiě mèi) in a variety of real-world scenarios, ranging from festive family reunions to modern television dramas. Perhaps the most common place is during the **Spring Festival (Lunar New Year)**. In China, this is the time for 'returning home,' where extended families gather. You will hear elders introducing younger generations: '这些是你的表姐妹。' (These are your female cousins.) It is a moment of re-establishing kinship ties and clarifying who is who in the vast family network.

Weddings and Banquets: At a typical Chinese wedding, tables are often organized by kinship. You might see a sign on a table that says '女方表姐妹' (Bride's female cousins). This helps the waitstaff and guests navigate the social hierarchy of the event.

在婚礼上，新娘的表姐妹们通常会担任伴娘。(At the wedding, the bride's female cousins usually serve as bridesmaids.)

Another place you will hear this word is in **TV Dramas (C-Dramas)**, especially those focusing on family conflict or historical settings. In period dramas (like 'Story of Yanxi Palace' or 'Dream of the Red Chamber'), the relationships between 表姐妹 are central to the plot. They are often portrayed as rivals for an inheritance or a marriage prospect, or conversely, as the only allies in a strict household. Listening for this word in these shows will help you understand the social stakes involved in these relationships.

Social Media: On platforms like WeChat or Little Red Book (Xiaohongshu), you'll see photos captioned with '表姐妹聚会' (Female cousins gathering). It's a popular hashtag for family-oriented content.

她在朋友圈发了一张和表姐妹喝下午茶的照片。(She posted a photo of herself having afternoon tea with her female cousins on her Moments.)

In **academic or legal contexts**, such as inheritance disputes or genealogical research, 表姐妹 is used to define specific legal standing. Unlike the English 'cousin,' which might require further clarification ('first cousin on my mother's side'), the Chinese term provides that information instantly. You might hear it in a lawyer's office or read it in a family tree (家谱 jiāpǔ). Finally, in **neighborhood gossip** (often referred to as 'chatting about family affairs' 闲聊家常), you'll hear people comparing the achievements of their 表姐妹, reflecting the competitive but close-knit nature of Chinese extended families.

Literature: Modern novels often use the term to explore themes of shared heritage and the differing paths taken by women of the same generation within a family.

小说描写了三位表姐妹截然不同的人生轨迹。(The novel describes the completely different life trajectories of three female cousins.)

The most frequent mistake English speakers make when using 表姐妹 (biǎo jiě mèi) is over-generalizing it to all cousins. In English, 'cousin' is a catch-all term. In Chinese, using 表姐妹 for your father's brother's daughter is a significant factual error. That person is your 堂姐妹 (táng jiě mèi). Using '表' instead of '堂' essentially 'outs' them from your immediate paternal clan, which can be seen as a sign of being distant or uneducated about your own family roots.

Mistake 1: The 'Biao' vs 'Tang' Confusion: Many learners remember 'Biao' as 'cousin' and forget 'Tang' exists. Remember: If they have the same surname as you (paternal uncle's kids), use 堂. If they have a different surname (usually), use 表.

❌ 我爸爸哥哥的女儿是我的表姐妹。
✅ 我爸爸哥哥的女儿是我的堂姐妹。

Another common error is using 表姐妹 to refer to male cousins. While '姐妹' (sisters) clearly indicates gender, learners sometimes get overwhelmed by the kinship system and use it as a general term for 'cousins on the mother's side.' For male cousins, you must use 表兄弟 (biǎo xiōng dì). If you are referring to a mixed-gender group of cousins from the 'outer' side, the standard collective term is 表亲 (biǎo qīn) or simply listing both: 表兄弟姐妹.

Mistake 2: Gender Misapplication: Using '表姐妹' for a group that includes your male cousins. This is grammatically incorrect because '姐妹' specifically means 'sisters'.

❌ 我的表姐妹里有一个男生。(There is a boy among my female cousins.) - This is a logical contradiction in Chinese.

A third mistake is using the term as a form of direct address. If you are talking *to* your cousin, you should call her '表姐' (if she's older) or her name (if she's younger). Calling her '表姐妹' to her face sounds like you are reading from a textbook. It's a term for *describing* the relationship to a third party, not for *enacting* the relationship. Finally, avoid using '表姐妹' for very distant relatives who aren't technically cousins. For general distant relatives, '亲戚' (qīnqi) is much safer and more natural.

Mistake 3: Misusing as a Vocative: Addressing a cousin directly as '表姐妹'. Instead, use '表姐' or '表妹'.

❌ 表姐妹，你能帮我吗？
✅ 表姐，你能帮我吗？(Older cousin) / [Name]，你能帮我吗？(Younger cousin)

To truly master 表姐妹 (biǎo jiě mèi), you must see where it sits among its linguistic neighbors. The most direct comparison is with 堂姐妹 (táng jiě mèi). While both translate to 'female cousins' in English, they are mutually exclusive in Chinese. '堂' (táng) refers to the 'hall' or the ancestral home, signifying relatives who belong to the same paternal lineage. '表' (biǎo) refers to the 'outside,' signifying relatives from the maternal side or paternal aunts' side. This distinction is the most important one to learn.

表姐妹 vs. 堂姐妹

表姐妹: Mother's side or Father's sisters' side. Different surname.
堂姐妹: Father's brothers' side. Same surname.

在中国文化中，表姐妹和堂姐妹的区别非常重要。(In Chinese culture, the difference between 'biao' cousins and 'tang' cousins is very important.)

Another set of related words are the singular versions: 表姐 (biǎojiě) and 表妹 (biǎomèi). These are much more common in daily life. If you are talking about one specific person, you *must* choose between these two based on her age relative to yours. You only use 表姐妹 when you want to refer to a group of them or the category of relationship in the abstract. For example, '我有一个表姐和一个表妹' (I have one older female cousin and one younger female cousin) is more common than '我有两个表姐妹'.

Collective Terms

表兄弟姐妹 (biǎo xiōng dì jiě mèi): All cousins (male and female) on the 'outer' side.
表亲 (biǎo qīn): A more formal, concise word for 'cousins' or 'relatives on the maternal/aunt side'.
亲戚 (qīn qi): The general word for all relatives. Use this if you aren't sure of the exact relationship.

In some southern dialects or informal speech, you might hear people use '姐妹' alone even for cousins if they are very close. However, in standard Mandarin, this is technically incorrect as '姐妹' implies biological sisters. There is also the term 远亲 (yuǎnqīn), which means 'distant relative.' If a 表姐妹 is the daughter of your mother's distant cousin, you might simply call her a '远房表妹' (distant 'biao' younger cousin) or just a '远亲'.

Comparison Table

Term	Relation	Gender
表姐妹	Outer circle	Female
堂姐妹	Inner circle	Female
表兄弟	Outer circle	Male

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient China, because '表' cousins had different surnames, they were legally allowed to marry each other, while '堂' (inner clan) cousins were strictly forbidden from doing so.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /biːˈaʊ dʒiːˈɛ meɪ/

US /biːˈaʊ dʒiːˈɛ meɪ/

Primary stress on the first syllable 'biǎo', secondary on 'mèi'.

Rhymes With

小 (xiǎo) 表 (biǎo) 鸟 (niǎo) 写 (xiě) 姐 (jiě) 妹 (mèi) 对 (duì) 位 (wèi)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'biǎo' as a flat 1st tone instead of a dipping 3rd tone.
Mixing up 'jiě' (3rd tone) with 'jié' (2nd tone).
Forgetting the sharp drop in 'mèi' (4th tone).
Treating the three syllables as equal in length (3rd tones are usually longer).
Failing to apply the 3rd tone sandhi (the first 3rd tone 'biǎo' may change slightly if spoken very quickly before 'jiě').

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The characters are relatively common, but the 'Biao' distinction requires cultural knowledge.

Writing 3/5

Writing '表' and '姐' correctly takes some practice for beginners.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward if tones are mastered.

Listening 2/5

Easy to recognize in family-themed conversations.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

姐姐妹妹姐妹母亲父亲

Learn Next

堂姐妹表兄弟亲戚舅舅姨妈

Advanced

宗法旁系直系姻亲血亲

Grammar to Know

Measure Words with People

两个表姐妹 (Two cousins) - Use '个' for general, '位' for respect.

Plural Marker '们'

表姐妹们 (Cousins) - Used only for people.

Possessive '的'

我的表姐妹 (My cousin) - Connects the pronoun to the relationship.

Tone Sandhi (3rd Tone)

表(3)姐(3) -> Biáo jiě - The first 3rd tone becomes a rising tone.

Noun Compounds

表 + 姐妹 -> Creates a specific kinship category.

Examples by Level

我有两个表姐妹。

I have two female cousins.

Uses the standard 'Subject + Verb + Number + Measure Word + Noun' structure.

你的表姐妹在哪儿？

Where are your female cousins?

A simple question using the question word '在哪儿'.

我的表姐妹很漂亮。

My female cousins are very pretty.

Uses the 'Subject + 很 + Adjective' pattern.

她们是我的表姐妹。

They are my female cousins.

A basic 'A is B' sentence using '是'.

表姐妹们在喝茶。

The female cousins are drinking tea.

Adds '们' to indicate a plural group.

我不认识你的表姐妹。

I don't know your female cousins.

Negative sentence using '不'.

她的表姐妹在上海。

Her female cousins are in Shanghai.

Uses '在' to indicate location.

表姐妹喜欢吃水果。

Female cousins like to eat fruit.

Simple Subject-Verb-Object structure.

我妈妈有三个表姐妹。

My mother has three female cousins.

Demonstrates the word applied to an older generation's relatives.

你要去见你的表姐妹吗？

Are you going to see your female cousins?

Uses the '要...吗' structure for a future-oriented question.

这些表姐妹都比我大。

These female cousins are all older than me.

Uses the comparison structure '比'.

我给表姐妹们买了一些礼物。

I bought some gifts for my female cousins.

Uses '给...买' (buy for someone).

表姐妹下午会来我家玩。

Female cousins will come to my house to play this afternoon.

Uses '会' to indicate a future possibility/plan.

那是你爸爸那边的表姐妹吗？

Are those female cousins from your father's side?

Clarifies the branch of the family using '...那边的'.

我的表姐妹们都还没结婚。

My female cousins are all not married yet.

Uses '还没' (not yet).

她和表姐妹的关系很好。

She has a good relationship with her female cousins.

Uses the '和...的关系' structure.

因为疫情，我已经两年没见表姐妹了。

Because of the pandemic, I haven't seen my female cousins for two years.

Uses '因为...已经...' to express cause and duration.

过年时，表姐妹聚在一起总有说不完的话。

During the New Year, female cousins gather together and always have endless things to talk about.

Uses '说不完' (endless/cannot finish saying).

虽然她们是表姐妹，但性格完全不同。

Although they are female cousins, their personalities are completely different.

Uses the '虽然...但...' (although... but...) concession structure.

我打算请表姐妹们去吃四川火锅。

I plan to treat my female cousins to Sichuan hotpot.

Uses '打算' (to plan) and '请...去吃' (treat to eat).

在我的家乡，表姐妹之间的感情很深。

In my hometown, the bond between female cousins is very deep.

Uses '...之间' (between) and '感情深' (deep feelings).

这次聚会，所有的表姐妹都到齐了。

At this gathering, all the female cousins have arrived/are present.

Uses '到齐' (all arrived/complete).

我经常向我的表姐妹请教工作上的问题。

I often ask my female cousins for advice on work issues.

Uses '向...请教' (to ask for advice from).

表姐妹送我的生日礼物非常有创意。

The birthday gift my female cousin gave me was very creative.

Uses a relative clause structure '...送我的生日礼物'.

由于家庭背景相似，这几位表姐妹从小就志趣相投。

Due to similar family backgrounds, these female cousins have shared similar interests since childhood.

Uses formal connectors like '由于' (due to) and idioms like '志趣相投' (share similar interests).

在法律上，表姐妹属于旁系血亲。

Legally, female cousins belong to collateral blood relatives.

Uses formal vocabulary like '法律上' (legally) and '旁系血亲' (collateral blood relatives).

新娘邀请了她最亲近的表姐妹担任伴娘。

The bride invited her closest female cousins to serve as bridesmaids.

Uses '最亲近的' (closest) and '担任' (to serve as/take the role of).

她们不仅是表姐妹，更是事业上的合作伙伴。

They are not only female cousins, but also business partners.

Uses the '不仅...更是...' (not only... but even more...) structure.

每当提起那些远房表姐妹，奶奶总是充满感慨。

Whenever those distant female cousins are mentioned, Grandma is always full of emotion.

Uses '每当...总是...' (whenever... always...).

这本小说深刻地描绘了表姐妹之间的权力斗争。

This novel profoundly depicts the power struggle between female cousins.

Uses '深刻地描绘' (profoundly depict) and '权力斗争' (power struggle).

由于缺乏联系，他和表姐妹们的关系逐渐疏远了。

Due to a lack of contact, his relationship with his female cousins has gradually become distant.

Uses '逐渐疏远' (gradually become distant).

表姐妹中，只有她选择了出国深造。

Among the female cousins, only she chose to go abroad for further studies.

Uses '...中，只有...' (Among..., only...).

在传统的大家庭中，表姐妹往往是女性社交生活的核心。

In traditional large families, female cousins were often the core of women's social lives.

Uses academic tone with '往往' (often) and '社交生活的核心' (core of social life).

作者通过表姐妹的不同命运，反映了时代的变迁。

Through the different fates of the female cousins, the author reflects the changes of the era.

Uses literary analysis language: '通过...反映...' (through... reflect...).

尽管血缘相近，但这几位表姐妹在价值观上存在巨大分歧。

Despite their close blood relationship, these female cousins have huge differences in values.

Uses '尽管...但...存在' (despite... but... there exists).

这种亲属称谓的复杂性，体现了汉语言对宗法关系的重视。

The complexity of these kinship terms reflects the importance the Chinese language places on patriarchal relations.

Uses high-level abstract nouns like '称谓的复杂性' and '宗法关系'.

他试图调解表姐妹之间因遗产继承而产生的矛盾。

He tried to mediate the conflict that arose between the female cousins due to inheritance.

Uses '试图调解' (try to mediate) and '因...而产生' (arise due to).

表姐妹聚会不仅是亲情的维系，更是信息交换的平台。

Female cousin gatherings are not just the maintenance of family ties, but also a platform for information exchange.

Uses '不仅是...更是...' with abstract concepts like '亲情的维系'.

在某些偏远地区，表姐妹之间的通婚在过去并不罕见。

In some remote areas, intermarriage between female cousins was not uncommon in the past.

Discusses historical sociological facts with '并不罕见' (not uncommon).

她对表姐妹的成功感到由衷的自豪，而非嫉妒。

She felt sincere pride, rather than envy, for her female cousin's success.

Uses '由衷的' (sincere/from the bottom of the heart) and '而非' (rather than).

《红楼梦》中林黛玉与薛宝钗的表姐妹关系，是整部小说情感纠葛的基调。

The 'biao' cousin relationship between Lin Daiyu and Xue Baochai in 'Dream of the Red Chamber' is the keynote of the novel's emotional entanglements.

Uses highly specific literary criticism terminology.

从社会语言学角度看，'表姐妹'一词的使用频率反映了当代家庭结构的微观演变。

From a sociolinguistic perspective, the frequency of the term '表姐妹' reflects the micro-evolution of contemporary family structures.

Uses academic jargon like '社会语言学角度' and '微观演变'.

该法律条款明确界定了表姐妹在法定继承顺序中的位阶。

This legal clause clearly defines the rank of female cousins in the legal order of succession.

Uses precise legal language like '明确界定' and '法定继承顺序'.

在人类学视野下，表姐妹关系的亲疏往往受居住模式和经济往来的制约。

In an anthropological view, the closeness of 'biao' cousin relationships is often constrained by residence patterns and economic interactions.

Uses '视野下' (under the view of) and '受...制约' (be constrained by).

这种基于母系或姨表关系的表姐妹纽带，在特定历史时期曾是女性互助的重要资源。

This 'biao' cousin bond based on matrilineal or aunt-cousin relationships was an important resource for female mutual aid during specific historical periods.

Uses sophisticated compound nouns and historical context.

尽管现代生活节奏加快，但表姐妹间的这种天然情感联结依然具有不可替代的价值。

Despite the acceleration of modern life, this natural emotional connection between female cousins still possesses irreplaceable value.

Uses '不可替代的价值' (irreplaceable value) in a philosophical context.

通过对表姐妹称谓的深度解析，我们可以窥见中国传统亲属制度的严密逻辑。

Through a deep analysis of the term '表姐妹', we can catch a glimpse of the strict logic of the traditional Chinese kinship system.

Uses '深度解析' (deep analysis) and '窥见' (catch a glimpse/insight into).

表姐妹间的这种微妙博弈，在许多描写豪门恩怨的影视作品中被刻画得入木三分。

This subtle game between female cousins is depicted vividly in many film and television works describing the feuds of wealthy families.

Uses the idiom '入木三分' (vividly/profoundly depicted) and '微妙博弈' (subtle game/gambit).

Common Collocations

亲近的表姐妹

远房表姐妹

表姐妹聚会

表姐妹关系

一群表姐妹

介绍表姐妹

像表姐妹一样

所有的表姐妹

和表姐妹聊天

表姐妹的情谊

Common Phrases

老表

— A dialectal or informal way to refer to 'biao' cousins, often used in rural areas or between close male friends.

嘿，老表，好久不见！

一表三千里

— An idiom suggesting that 'biao' relatives can be very numerous and distant, literally 'one biao reaches three thousand li'.

亲戚多了，真是一表三千里。

姨表亲

— Refers to the relationship through the mother's sister.

他们家和我们是姨表亲。

姑表亲

— Refers to the relationship through the father's sister.

姑表亲，辈辈亲。

舅表亲

— Refers to the relationship through the mother's brother.

舅表亲也是很近的亲戚。

远房亲戚

— General term for distant relatives, often including distant 'biao' cousins.

他只是个远房亲戚。

内亲外戚

— Refers to relatives on the father's side and mother's side respectively.

家里来了不少内亲外戚。

表兄妹

— A pair consisting of a male 'biao' cousin and a female 'biao' cousin.

他们是表兄妹。

走亲戚

— To visit relatives, a common activity during festivals where one sees their '表姐妹'.

过年我们要去走亲戚。

家谱

— Family tree/genealogy, where '表姐妹' relationships are recorded.

他在翻阅家谱。

Often Confused With

表姐妹 vs 堂姐妹

English speakers often mix these up. Tang is for father's brother's kids (same surname); Biao is for everyone else.

表姐妹 vs 表兄弟

Don't use '姐妹' for male cousins. Use '兄弟' for males.

表姐妹 vs 亲姐妹

Cousins are not 'Qin' (biological) sisters. Using 'Qin' implies you share the same parents.

Idioms & Expressions

"一表三千里"

— Describes having a vast number of distant 'biao' relatives.

他的亲戚遍布全国，真是一表三千里。

Colloquial

"姑表结亲"

— Refers to the traditional practice of cousins from the father's sister's side marrying.

在古代，姑表结亲是很常见的。

Historical

"亲上加亲"

— To become even closer relatives, often through marriage between cousins like '表姐妹'.

两家联姻，真是亲上加亲。

Neutral

"中表之戚"

— A formal way to refer to the relationship between 'biao' cousins.

两家有着深厚的中表之戚。

Literary

"骨肉至亲"

— Very close relatives, though usually refers to immediate family, it can include close '表姐妹'.

他们虽是表亲，却如骨肉至亲。

Formal

"情同手足"

— As close as brothers and sisters (literally hands and feet), often used for close cousins.

这对表姐妹情同手足。

Idiomatic

"门当户对"

— Families of equal social status, a factor often considered when '表姐妹' married into other families.

古人讲究门当户对。

Neutral

"金玉良缘"

— A perfect marriage, famously used in 'Dream of the Red Chamber' regarding the 'biao' cousin marriage.

大家都说这是金玉良缘。

Literary

"儿女亲家"

— The relationship between parents whose children have married, often involving '表姐妹' families.

他们两家成了儿女亲家。

Neutral

"三姑六婆"

— A collective term for various female relatives and busybodies, often used humorously at gatherings.

过年最怕那些三姑六婆问东问西。

Colloquial

Easily Confused

表姐妹 vs 堂姐妹

Both mean 'female cousin' in English.

Tang is paternal uncle's daughters (same surname). Biao is maternal or paternal aunt's daughters (usually different surname).

我爸爸哥哥的女儿是堂姐妹，我妈妈哥哥的女儿是表姐妹。

表姐妹 vs 姐妹

Learners might think 'cousin' is just a type of 'sister'.

姐妹 refers to biological sisters. 表姐妹 is a more distant kinship.

我有两个亲姐妹和三个表姐妹。

表姐妹 vs 表亲

Both refer to 'biao' relatives.

表亲 is a general term for all genders and ages. 表姐妹 is specific to females of your generation.

表亲包括表兄弟和表姐妹。

表姐妹 vs 外甥女

Both are female relatives from different branches.

外甥女 is your sister's daughter (niece). 表姐妹 is your cousin.

表姐妹和我同辈，外甥女比我晚一辈。

表姐妹 vs 侄女

Both are female relatives.

侄女 is your brother's daughter (niece). 表姐妹 is your cousin.

侄女叫我叔叔，表姐妹叫我名字或哥哥。

Sentence Patterns

我有 [Number] 个表姐妹。

我有两个表姐妹。

[Person] 是我的表姐妹。

她们是我的表姐妹。

我和表姐妹们一起 [Action]。

我和表姐妹们一起去旅游。

虽然...但是表姐妹...

虽然我们不常见面，但是表姐妹之间的关系很好。

在 [Context] 中，表姐妹...

在婚礼中，表姐妹通常是伴娘。

通过 [Action]，表姐妹...

通过这次聚会，表姐妹们增进了感情。

表姐妹间的 [Noun]...

表姐妹间的竞争有时很激烈。

基于 [Reason] 的表姐妹...

基于血缘关系的表姐妹纽带是无法割断的。

Word Family

Nouns

表姐 (biǎojiě) - Older female cousin

表妹 (biǎomèi) - Younger female cousin

表兄弟 (biǎoxiōngdì) - Male cousins

表亲 (biǎoqīn) - Relatives on the 'biao' side

堂姐妹 (tángjiěmèi)

姐妹 (jiěmèi)

亲戚 (qīnqi)

外祖母 (wàizǔmǔ)

舅舅 (jiùjiu)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in family discussions, rare in business.

Common Mistakes

Using 表姐妹 for father's brother's daughter. → 堂姐妹 (táng jiě mèi)
If they share your paternal surname (paternal uncle's kids), they are 'Tang', not 'Biao'. This is a major cultural distinction.
Using 表姐妹 to address a cousin directly. → 表姐 (biǎojiě) or 表妹 (biǎomèi)
You don't call someone 'female cousin' to their face. You use their specific title based on age.
Using 表姐妹 for male cousins. → 表兄弟 (biǎo xiōng dì)
'姐妹' specifically means sisters/females. For males, you must use '兄弟'.
Pronouncing 'biǎo' in the first tone. → biǎo (3rd tone)
The 3rd tone is essential. Pronouncing it in the 1st tone might make it sound like 'standard' (标).
Thinking 表姐妹 only means mother's side. → Includes father's sisters' side too.
'Biao' covers all cousins except those from your father's brothers. Don't forget your paternal aunts!

Tips

Use '位' for respect

When introducing your cousins to someone important, use the measure word '位' (wèi) instead of '个' (gè) to show respect. Example: '这两位是我的表姐妹。'

New Year Taboo

During Chinese New Year, it's polite to know the exact titles of your cousins. Confusing 'Biao' and 'Tang' might make you seem disconnected from the family.

Tone Sandhi Alert

When saying '表姐' (biǎojiě), the 'biǎo' changes to a 2nd tone (rising) because it's followed by another 3rd tone. However, in the full word '表姐妹', the rhythm is different, and 'biǎo' usually stays a 3rd tone.

Stroke Order

The character '表' has 8 strokes. Make sure the '衣' part at the bottom is written correctly to avoid making it look like another character.

Introducing Friends

Sometimes close friends call each other '表姐妹' metaphorically, but this is rare. Stick to using it for actual relatives unless you are joking.

Collective vs Singular

Always remember: '表姐妹' is for the group. If you mean just one person, you MUST know if she is older (表姐) or younger (表妹).

Listen for 'Lao Biao'

In some regions, people call everyone '老表' (Lao Biao). This is a friendly, slangy way to say 'cousin' or even just 'buddy'.

The 'Surface' Meaning

Remembering that '表' means 'surface' helps you remember these are 'surface-level' (outer) relatives, not 'hall' (inner) relatives.

Draw the Tree

The best way to learn this is to draw a family tree of your own family or a famous one (like the British Royal Family) and label the '表姐妹'.

Professional Use

In a professional setting, if you must mention a cousin, '表姐妹' is perfectly polite and clear.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Biao' as 'Beyond' the immediate family surname. 'Jie-Mei' are the sisters. So, 'Beyond-Sisters' are your cousins from the other branches.

Visual Association

Imagine a house (the 'Tang' hall). Your paternal uncle's daughters are inside the house. Your 'Biao' cousins are standing outside on the 'surface' (表) of the lawn.

Word Web

表姐表妹母亲舅舅姨妈姑妈堂姐妹亲戚

Challenge

Try to draw your family tree and label all the '表姐妹' correctly. Explain to a friend why your father's sister's daughter is a '表姐' and not a '堂姐'.

Word Origin

The term combines '表' (biǎo) and '姐妹' (jiě mèi). '表' originally meant 'outer garment' or 'surface.' In the context of kinship, it was used to describe relatives who were 'outside' the paternal clan.

Original meaning: Female siblings from an external lineage.

Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese).

Cultural Context

Be careful not to call someone a '表姐妹' if they are a '堂姐妹', as it might imply you don't consider them 'true' members of the paternal family.

In English, we just say 'cousins.' This makes '表姐妹' feel overly complex to English speakers, but to Chinese speakers, 'cousin' feels confusingly vague.

Lin Daiyu and Xue Baochai in 'Dream of the Red Chamber'. The 'Biao' sisters in various modern C-dramas like 'Nothing But Thirty'. Traditional folk songs about visiting maternal relatives.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Family Reunion

好久不见
长大了
聚一聚
全家福

Wedding

伴娘
恭喜
喝喜酒
送礼物

Introductions

这是我的...
认识一下
很高兴见到你
她们是...

Travel Plans

一起去
旅游
逛街
订酒店

Childhood Memories

小时候
一起玩
还记得吗
以前

Conversation Starters

"你有多少个表姐妹？ (How many female cousins do you have?)"

"你和你的表姐妹关系亲近吗？ (Are you close with your female cousins?)"

"你的表姐妹住在哪个城市？ (Which city do your female cousins live in?)"

"过年的时候你会见到你的表姐妹吗？ (Do you see your female cousins during the New Year?)"

"你觉得表姐妹和亲姐妹有什么区别？ (What do you think is the difference between cousins and sisters?)"

Journal Prompts

写一写你最喜欢的表姐妹。 (Write about your favorite female cousin.)

描述一次你和表姐妹们在一起的难忘经历。 (Describe a memorable experience with your female cousins.)

你认为在现代社会，表姐妹之间的关系重要吗？ (Do you think the relationship between cousins is important in modern society?)

如果你的表姐妹来你住的城市旅游，你会带她们去哪里？ (If your cousins came to visit your city, where would you take them?)

对比一下你和你的某位表姐妹的性格。 (Compare your personality with one of your female cousins.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, absolutely. Any cousin who is not your father's brother's child (and thus usually has a different surname) falls under the '表' category. This includes your father's sister's daughters.

You should use the combined term '表兄弟姐妹' (biǎo xiōng dì jiě mèi). This covers all your 'biao' cousins of both genders.

No, it is a descriptive term. To talk to her, use '表姐' (if she's older than you) or '表妹' (if she's younger). Using '表姐妹' sounds like you are talking about her to someone else.

Historically, Chinese society was patriarchal. Daughters married 'out' of the family, so their children were considered 'outside' relatives. '表' reflects this traditional view.

While not strictly required if a number is present (e.g., '三个表姐妹'), adding '们' (表姐妹们) is very common when referring to them as a group without a specific number.

Only if you are very close and speaking informally, but it's technically incorrect. In standard Mandarin, '姐妹' means biological sisters. Stick to '表姐妹' to avoid confusion.

This can happen (e.g., if your mother's brother married someone with your surname). In this case, she is still a '表姐妹' because the relationship is through your mother.

Yes, '表姊妹' (biǎo zǐ mèi) is sometimes used in very formal or traditional writing, replacing '姐' with '姊'.

It's very common when describing one's family or talking about social events like weddings and holiday gatherings.

The most logical opposite is '堂姐妹' (paternal uncle's daughters), as they represent the 'inner' side of the family cousins.