Learn Mandarin Chinese Greetings and Everyday Phrases

Question 1

What does 'Nǐ hǎo (你好)' literally mean in Mandarin?

Accepted Answer

You good / Hello

Answer

'Nǐ hǎo' literally translates as 'you good', but functions as the standard 'hello' greeting in Mandarin.

Question 2

What is the more formal or respectful version of 'nǐ hǎo'?

Accepted Answer

Nín hǎo (您好)

Answer

'Nín hǎo (您好)' uses the honorific pronoun '您', showing respect to elders, seniors, or people of higher status.

Question 3

How do you say 'Thank you' in Mandarin?

Accepted Answer

Xièxie (谢谢)

Answer

'Xièxie (谢谢)' is the standard way to say thank you in Mandarin, with the character repeated for emphasis.

Question 4

What does 'Duìbuqǐ (对不起)' mean?

Accepted Answer

I'm sorry / I beg your pardon

Answer

'Duìbuqǐ' means 'I'm sorry' and is used as an apology for causing inconvenience or making a mistake.

Question 5

What is the appropriate response to 'xièxie (谢谢)' in Mandarin?

Accepted Answer

Bù kèqì (不客气) or Méi shì (没事)

Answer

'Bù kèqì (不客气)' means 'you're welcome / don't be polite', and 'méi shì (没事)' means 'no problem', both are common responses to thanks.

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