Learn How to Pronounce kipao | YouPronounce.it
How to Pronounce kipao
(Listen to the audio below for the stress and intonation)
Meaning and Context
The qipao, also known as the cheongsam, is a quintessential Chinese dress characterized by its high mandarin collar, form-fitting silhouette, and distinctive side slits, originating from the attire worn by Manchu women during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912). Evolving significantly in the cosmopolitan Shanghai of the 1920s and 1930s, it transformed from a loose, traditional garment into a sleek, modern symbol of feminine elegance and cultural identity. Today, the qipao remains a powerful icon in traditional Chinese fashion, frequently worn for formal occasions like weddings and cultural celebrations, and continues to inspire modern qipao designs in global fashion. Its enduring appeal lies in its perfect blend of Chinese heritage and timeless style, making it a sought-after piece for those interested in Asian clothing and vintage fashion.
Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings
The standard and most widely accepted romanization from Mandarin Chinese is "qipao," using the Hanyu Pinyin system. A common alternative spelling is "cheongsam," which is derived from the Cantonese pronunciation and is more frequently used in Hong Kong and overseas communities. A frequent misspelling occurs due to phonetic interpretation, resulting in errors like "kipao" (substituting 'k' for the 'q' sound) or "chipao." Other common typos include "qipau," "qipow," or "cheungsam," which often arise from mishearing the final consonants. When searching for information or garments, it is advisable to try both "qipao" and "cheongsam" to ensure comprehensive results.
Example Sentences
For her wedding tea ceremony, she chose a stunning red silk qipao embroidered with golden phoenixes.
The vintage qipao she found at the boutique had the exquisite craftsmanship typical of 1930s Shanghai.
Many contemporary designers are reinterpreting the classic cheongsam by incorporating bold, modern prints.
Learning about the qipao's evolution from Manchu robes offers a fascinating glimpse into China's sartorial history.
He complimented her on the elegant cheongsam, noting how its high collar and side slit created a graceful silhouette.
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