Chinese name for Leo
Leo is usually written 利奥 (lì ào) in Chinese. That is a phonetic transliteration: it copies the sound, so Chinese speakers read it as a foreign name. If you want a name that feels native, here are authentic Chinese given names inspired by Leo.
Leo in Chinese, by sound
利奥
lì ào
Fine for writing your English name on a Chinese form. It is not a Chinese given name, and the characters were picked for sound, not meaning.
Authentic Chinese names inspired by Leo
Real given-name characters from our curated library. A full Chinese name puts a one-character surname first, for example 林 (Lín) + 朗岳.
The lion's boldness in Leo is matched by a bright, open spirit and a great mountain.
About the name Leo
Leo comes from the Latin word leo, meaning lion.
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Find my Chinese nameFrequently asked questions
What is Leo in Chinese?
The usual phonetic version of Leo is 利奥 (lì ào). It copies the sound, so Chinese speakers read it as a foreign name. Authentic Chinese given names inspired by Leo include 朗岳 (lǎng yuè), 烨朗 (yè lǎng).
How do you write Leo in Chinese characters?
Phonetically, Leo is written 利奥. A native-feeling Chinese name is different: a surname followed by one or two given characters chosen for meaning, such as 朗岳.
What is a good Chinese name for someone called Leo?
Pick characters that real Chinese people are named with and that carry a meaning you like. 朗岳 (lǎng yuè): The lion's boldness in Leo is matched by a bright, open spirit and a great mountain. 烨朗 (yè lǎng): Leo's lion-like radiance is echoed in a blazing, clear brightness.
Why sound-based names fall flat: Chinese name vs. transliteration.