word choice - When is it appropriate to use 亲爱的? - Chinese Language . . . Yes, "亲爱的" does indeed has a slightly different connotation to the English "Dear" It is not used as liberally in Chinese letters and emails "亲爱的" expresses a closer relationship than "Dear" does The following are situations where you may or may not use it: When is it definitely OK: you writing to your spouse you writing to your lover