In Chinese, Joseph is written 约瑟夫 (Yuē sè fū), the standard spelling used in Chinese books, films and news. If you would like a name with meaning, try 卓然 (Zhuó rán): a Chinese-style name meaning distinguished and outstanding.
Yuē sè fū
Joseph
There is no single official spelling of an English name in Chinese. Here is what each option says, character by character.
Yuē sè fū
The standard Chinese spelling of Joseph.
Recognised as Joseph by any Chinese reader; chosen for sound rather than meaning.
Zhuó rán
A Chinese-style name meaning distinguished and outstanding.
Echoes the “Jo” in Joseph and reads like a real Chinese given name.
Zhuó
A single character meaning excellence.
Simple and strong for a small tattoo.
Joseph comes from Hebrew and means “he will add”. In the Bible it is the name of Jacob's son and of the husband of Mary.
Joseph comes from Hebrew and means “he will add”. In the Bible it is the name of Jacob's son and of the husband of Mary.
Joseph is written 约瑟夫 and pronounced Yuē sè fū. This is the standard spelling Chinese speakers use for the name. Recognised as Joseph by any Chinese reader; chosen for sound rather than meaning.
卓然 (Zhuó rán) is a Chinese-style name for Joseph: a Chinese-style name meaning distinguished and outstanding. 卓 means “outstanding”, 然 means “natural, at ease”.
约瑟夫 is how Chinese speakers will read your name. 卓然 is shorter and every character carries a meaning, which many people prefer for body art. Write it in a readable style such as Kaishu, and show it to a fluent reader before your appointment.