A giant guide to Chinese zodiac signs, animals and vocabulary

Have you ever wondered how the Chinese Zodiac differs from the Western Zodiac? This handy guide will cover everything you need to know about both Zodiacs in Chinese!

Whether you cannot wait to read your daily horoscope first thing in the morning or are simply keen on seeing what your Zodiac says about you and your potential partner, knowing some Zodiac vocabulary in Chinese is an excellent conversation starter.

If you were raised in the West, then you’re probably already familiar with Zodiac signs like Aquarius, Cancer, and Scorpio. But are you familiar with the Year of the Rat, the Year of the Ox or the Year of the Dragon?

The Chinese Zodiac has an incredibly rich history with many levels that you’ll want to consider beyond just your year of birth. For example, if you’re into Western Astrology, you know that your ascendant and your moon are important components of understanding someone’s birth chart in addition to your sun sign. Similarly, the Chinese Zodiac incorporates more than just your birth year, as you’ll want to know your element and other things like your lucky colors and lucky numbers.

Fortunately, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you understand the Chinese Zodiac and speak about the Western Zodiac in Chinese. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to navigate the Chinese and Western Zodiacs expertly.

How to talk about Western Zodiac/horoscope signs in Chinese

If you’re already familiar with the Western horoscope, then you already know that we have a lot of ground to cover. Each Zodiac sign has associated animals, symbols, planets, elements, and more that affect their personalities and ways of interacting with the world. We’ll cover each sign individually and show you how to discuss all aspects of it, but for now, let’s focus on the basics: how to say each Western Zodiac sign in Chinese.

Aries in Chinese

Aries signs are known for their leadership, courage, and enthusiasm. They are often adventurous and dynamic but can be competitive or aggressive. Their fiery energy drives them to take initiative and embrace challenges.

Taurus in Chinese

Tauruses are known for their reliability and practicality. Loyalty and dedication define their relationships. They are patient, persistent, and enjoy life’s pleasures. However, they can be stubborn and resistant to change.

Gemini in Chinese

Gemini signs are known for their duality. They are adaptable, outgoing, and intellectually curious. They thrive on communication and social interaction and can be indecisive and restless. Their versatility and wit make them engaging companions.

Cancer in Chinese

Cancer signs are known for being emotional and sensitive. Cancers are nurturing and empathetic, often putting others' needs first. They value family and home, providing a comforting presence. However, they can be moody and clingy, with a strong tendency towards sentimentality.

Leo in Chinese

Leos are confident, charismatic, and natural leaders who tend to take the spotlight. They are generous and loyal and have a flair for drama and creativity. However, they can be prone to arrogance and stubbornness, so they need to be careful not to give in to these impulses.

Virgo in Chinese

Virgos are characterized by their detail-oriented approach to everything. They are analytical, methodical, and diligent and tend to strive for perfection in everything they do. They are reliable and helpful but can be overly critical and worry-prone.

Libra in Chinese

Libras, represented by the scales, are diplomatic and sociable. They seek justice and fairness in all aspects of life, have a strong aesthetic sense, and love beauty. However, they can be indecisive and avoid confrontations as they seek to maintain peace.

Scorpio in Chinese

Scorpios are known for their intensity and depth. They are passionate, determined, and resourceful and often delve deep into the heart of the matter. They are loyal and brave but can be secretive and prone to jealousy. Their strong will is unmatched.

Sagittarius in Chinese

Sagittarius signs are known for their adventurous and optimistic spirit. Sagittarians are freedom-loving, honest, and have a thirst for knowledge. They are enthusiastic and have a great sense of humor but can be impatient and tactless. Their love for exploration defines them.

Capricorn in Chinese

Capricorns are known for their discipline and ambition. Capricorns are practical, responsible, and value structure and achievement. They are hardworking and patient, which makes them excel in managerial roles. However, they can be stubborn and overly cautious, which can make them seem distant or cold.

Aquarius in Chinese

Aquarians are known for their progressive and independent nature. Aquarians are innovative, intellectual, and humanitarian. They value freedom and individuality but can be unpredictable and emotionally detached. Their vision often makes them unconventional yet visionary thinkers.

Pisces in Chinese

Pisces are known for their empathetic and artistic nature. They are intuitive, sensitive, and compassionate, which makes them deeply connected to their emotions and the emotions of those around them. They are imaginative dreamers but can be overly idealistic and escapist.

How to talk about Chinese Zodiac signs in Chinese

If you’re just starting to delve into Chinese culture, then get ready because we’ve got a treat for you. The Chinese Zodiac signs are completely different from the Western ones, and they come with a history just as rich and meaningful.

The most obvious difference between the Western and Chinese Zodiac is that the Chinese zodiac is based on animals. Each sign is named after one of the 12 animals of the Zodiac. They are also assigned based on the year of birth rather than the month of birth. So, each sign is commonly known as “the Year of the ____”, such as the Year of the Ox or the Year of the Rabbit.

The Chinese Zodiac follows the lunar calendar, which doesn’t match the Gregorian calendar exactly. So, the year of each Zodiac sign changes during Chinese New Year, which happens somewhere between late January and mid-February.

Here are the 12 Chinese Zodiac signs in English and Chinese, along with pinyin and a handy pronunciation guide.

The Year of the Rat – 鼠年

Those born in the Year of the Rat, according to the Chinese Zodiac, are known for their intelligence, resourcefulness, and adaptability. Rats are quick-witted, charming, and sociable, with a keen eye for detail. They are ambitious and thrifty but can sometimes be seen as opportunistic and secretive.

Here are some of the most common characteristics of those born in the Year of the Rat and idioms related to rat:

The Year of the Ox – 牛年

People born in the Year of the Ox in the Chinese Zodiac are characterized by their strength, reliability, and diligence. Oxen are known for their steadfastness, patience, and methodical approach. They are typically honest and hardworking, valuing tradition and family. However, they can also be stubborn and less adept at socializing.

These are some of the most common traits of people born in the Year of the Ox and idioms related to ox.

The Year of the Tiger – 虎年

People born in the Year of the Tiger, as per the Chinese Zodiac, are recognized for their bravery, confidence, and competitive nature. Tigers are charismatic and adventurous, often taking on leadership roles. They possess a strong sense of justice and are not afraid of challenges, but can be impulsive and aggressive.

Here are some other common traits of those born in the Year of the Tiger and idioms related to the tiger.

The Year of the Rabbit – 兔年

People born in the Year of the Rabbit, according to the Chinese Zodiac, are known for their gentle, compassionate, and refined nature. Rabbits are graceful, peaceful, and possess good judgment. They seek harmony and are often artistic and diplomatic, but can be risk-averse and somewhat detached in emotional expression.

These are some of the most common traits and idioms related to those born in the Year of the Rabbit:

The Year of the Dragon – 龙年

Those born in the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese Zodiac are known for their charisma, intelligence, and confidence. Dragons are natural leaders, ambitious and driven, with a flair for the dramatic. They are innovative and courageous but can also be perceived as arrogant and prone to impulsive decisions.

Some common characteristics of people born in the Year of the Dragon and dragon-related idioms are:

The Year of the Snake – 蛇年

Individuals born in the Year of the Snake, according to the Chinese Zodiac, are seen as wise, intuitive, and enigmatic. Snakes are charming and sophisticated with a calm demeanor. They are deep thinkers, often introspective, but can also be possessive and distrustful. Their mysterious nature hides a strategic and analytical mind.

Snakes are often portrayed in dark yet nuanced ways in Chinese culture. For example, the story of the white snake is one of the most popular romance stories in Chinese, which showcases the mystical nature of these animals in Chinese culture.

Some of the top traits and idioms related to those born in the Year of the Snake are:

The Year of the Horse - 马年

Born in the Year of the Horse, these individuals are recognized in the Chinese Zodiac for their energy, independence, and enthusiasm. Horses are outgoing and sociable and love freedom. They are quick-witted and adventurous but can be impulsive and restless. Their free-spirited nature often leads them to seek new experiences.

Here are some characteristics and idioms related to those born in the Year of the Horse:

The Year of the Sheep - 羊年

Individuals born in the Year of the Sheep (or Goat) in the Chinese Zodiac are known for their gentle, thoughtful, and compassionate nature. Sheep are creative, artistic, and have a strong sense of justice. They prefer peace and quiet and are sympathetic but can be shy, indecisive, and over-sensitive at times.

These are some of the top traits and idioms related to those born in the Year of the Sheep:

The Year of the Monkey - 猴年

People born in the Year of the Monkey are known for their cleverness, curiosity, and wit. Monkeys are innovative, adaptable, and quick learners, which makes them skillful problem-solvers. However, they can also be mischievous and sometimes break rules or lack respect for tradition.

Here are some of the top characteristics of those born in the Year of the Monkey and monkey-related idioms:

The Year of the Rooster - 鸡年

Those born in the Year of the Rooster, as per the Chinese Zodiac, are recognized for their confidence, honesty, and hardworking nature. Roosters are observant, sharp, and practical. They enjoy being in the spotlight and can be flamboyant but also boast strong organizational skills. However, they can be blunt and boastful.

Some of the most common traits and idioms about the Year of the Rooster are:

The Year of the Dog - 狗年

These individuals are known for their loyalty, honesty, and trustworthiness. Dogs are faithful, sincere, and kind-hearted creatures who often act selflessly. They are reliable and have a strong sense of duty, but can also be stubborn, worrisome, and overly cautious at times.

These are some of the most common traits and idioms related to the Year of the Dog:

The Year of the Pig - 猪年

People born in the Year of the Pig are known for their generosity, diligence, and compassion. Pigs are sincere, peace-loving, and possess a strong sense of responsibility. They enjoy life's pleasures and are often lucky and affluent, but can also be naive and overly trusting.

Here’s what to expect from people born in the Year of the Pig and pig-related idioms:

Lucky symbols in the Chinese Zodiac

Another thing to keep in mind about the Chinese Zodiac is that each sign comes with its lucky (and unlucky!) symbols. Things like days and months can be especially lucky for you depending on your sign, so you can choose to take these symbols into consideration when you plan big events or consider major life decisions.

Common phrases about the Zodiac in Chinese

Knowing all this Zodiac vocabulary won’t be useful if you don’t know how to naturally weave it into conversations. The following are some great questions and responses you can use to naturally talk about Chinese and Western Zodiacs with your friends.

FAQs about the Chinese Zodiac

Why are animals used in the Chinese Zodiac?

There are many versions of the origin of the twelve Zodiac animals. The most common version is that the Jade Emperor organized a race for all the animals, but only the first twelve animals to arrive would win. They had to cross a tumultuous river before getting to the finish line, and the order of the Zodiac signs represents the order of the winners. In the end, the rat was the first to cross the finish line, and the pig was the last winner.

Why are cats not part of the Chinese Zodiac?

Like the legend of the origin of the twelve Zodiac animals, there are a few different stories explaining why there isn’t a cat in the Chinese Zodiac. One story says that the rat and the cat, both bad swimmers, teamed up to cross the river in the Jade Emperor’s race. However, the rat ended up deceiving the cat, which is why the rat was the first one to make it to the finish line while the cat didn’t even arrive.

Is it good luck when it is your year?

So, you might be wondering what happens every 12 years when it is your year of the Zodiac again. Although it might sound like it would be a year of good luck (almost like your birthday!), your 本命年 (běn mìng nián) is actually considered unlucky. That’s because it’s thought that you offend Tai Sui (犯太岁), the god of age in Chinese mythology, in your 本命年, which is why you’re more likely to face obstacles and challenges in your life during this year.

Are there Chinese equivalents to Western Zodiac signs?

Although Chinese and Western zodiac signs are different, there are some overlaps between them. If you want to draw a parallel between the two to get a better idea of how the Chinese Zodiac signs equate to the Western signs, you can think of the following:

• Sagittarius = Rat
• Capricorn = Ox
• Aquarius = Tiger
• Pisces = Rabbit
• Aries = Dragon
• Taurus = Snake
• Gemini = Horse
• Cancer = Goat
• Leo = Monkey
• Virgo = Rooster
• Libra = Dog
• Scorpio = Pig

However, remember that these are just approximations and there isn’t a real equivalent between the two Zodiacs.

Ready to get more connected with your Zodiac?

Now that you have so many new vocabulary words, phrases, and questions about the Western and Chinese Zodiac, you’ll be able to speak confidently about the Zodiac. Who knows, maybe you’ll even get to know yourself a little bit better as you look into the characteristics of your Western and Chinese Zodiac!

Whatever the stars may say, don’t forget to check out our Mandarin Chinese blog, where we routinely publish helpful cultural and vocabulary content for learning Chinese, such as our guide to political words in Chinese and our guide to all things marketing in Chinese.