How to Say ‘The ball is round.’ in Traditional Chinese
球是圓的。
qiú shì yuán de
[chyoh shr ywen de]
💬 Usage Tip: 圓的 describes something as "round," while 圓形 names the shape "circle." Use 是…的 to describe an object, as in 盤子是圓的 "the plate is round."
Phrase Breakdown
球是
qiú shì
the ball is
球 (ball) + 是 (is). 球 has a rising tone: qiú shì.
球是紅色的。
The ball is red.
Words in this phrase
球
qiú
[chyoh]
ball
球 means a ball, and in sports it can refer to the ball in play or a shot.
那顆球的路線很刁鑽，差點進門。
The path of that ball was tricky and it almost went into the goal.
是
shì
[shr]
to be; is; are
The basic verb 'to be' in Chinese.
這是最直接的路嗎？
Is this the most direct route?
圓的。
yuán de
round
圓 (round) + 的 (describes a quality). Say yuán de, with a light 的.
月亮是圓的。
The moon is round.
Words in this phrase
圓
yuán
[ywen]
round; full; to make complete
Often implies “complete” or “whole,” not just “round.” In New Year language, it connects to family completeness in 團圓.
願你新年事事圓滿，家人平安。
May everything go perfectly for you in the New Year, and may your family be safe.
的
de
[de]
(nominalizing particle)
Ends a description, meaning 'one that is...'.
月亮是亮的。
The moon is bright.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Spent three months in Taiwan and this app was my lifeline. The tonal practice with real situations helped me sound less like a textbook and more like a person.”
Laura H., 28, Photographer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager
“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”
Alex M., 42, Software Engineer