How Taiwanese People Talk About Their Spouse in Mandarin

In Mandarin classes, many learners say:
「我的妻子是臺灣人。」（My wife is Taiwanese.)

Grammatically and semantically, this sentence is correct.
However, in everyday Taiwanese Mandarin, it sounds a bit formal.

This does not mean the word “妻子 (wife)” is wrong —
it simply reflects a difference in usage and context.

Common expressions in daily conversation

In casual, everyday situations, Taiwanese speakers usually say:

• 老公 / 老婆
  Used when talking with friends or family, or in informal introductions.
  For example:
  “My husband is Taiwanese.”
  “My wife is working overtime today.”

These expressions sound natural and friendly, and are very commonly used.

Expressions for formal situations

In more formal contexts, or when introducing one’s spouse to people you do not know well, speakers often use:

• 先生 / 太太
  For example:
  “This is my husband.”
  “My wife is Taiwanese.”

These terms sound polite and appropriate in formal settings.

What about “丈夫 / 妻子”?

丈夫 / 妻子 are correct and standard Mandarin terms,
but they are used less frequently in spoken Taiwanese Mandarin.

They are more commonly found in:

• Third-person descriptions

• Formal or objective situations

• Written language or documents

In casual conversation, Taiwanese speakers rarely introduce their spouse using these terms.

Summary: How to choose?

• With friends → 老公 / 老婆

• Formal introductions → 先生 / 太太

Choosing words based on the situation will make your Mandarin sound more natural and authentic.