wángyé

Also written: wangye; wang ye; prince; princely lord; Your Highness

A respectful form of address for a man who holds a princely or royal title in Chinese historical settings.

Literal meaning

princely lord

Cultural context

The exact rank and political meaning vary by dynasty and fictional system. A wángyé may be the emperor’s brother, son, uncle, or another titled royal noble with lands, military influence, or court authority.

How dramas use it

Historical dramas use wángyé for powerful royal men who operate below the emperor but may command households, armies, factions, or regional power.

Usage & formality

English subtitles may use prince, lord, or Your Highness. Wángyé is not the reigning emperor, and it should not automatically be translated as king.