10 Most Authentic Chinese Greetings—Beyond ‘Nǐ Hǎo’ and ‘Xièxie’

When learning Mandarin, most beginners start with the basics: "Nǐ hǎo" (你好) for "hello" and "Xièxie" (谢谢) for "thank you." While these phrases are essential, they barely scratch the surface of authentic Chinese communication. To truly connect with native speakers, mastering culturally rich greetings is key.

This guide explores the 10 Most Authentic Chinese Greetings—Beyond ‘Nǐ Hǎo’ and ‘Xièxie’, offering deeper insights into daily interactions. Whether you're traveling, doing business, or simply engaging with Chinese friends, these phrases will help you sound more natural and respectful.

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1. "Nín Hǎo" (您好) – The Polite "Hello"

Used in formal settings or when addressing elders, "Nín hǎo" shows respect. Unlike "Nǐ hǎo," which is casual, this greeting elevates politeness.

When to use:

• Meeting someone older
• Business introductions
• Speaking to authority figures

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2. "Zǎo Shang Hǎo" (早上好) – Good Morning

A warm way to greet someone in the morning, "Zǎo shang hǎo" is more formal than a simple "Zǎo" (早).

Example:

• Colleagues at work
• Hotel staff to guests

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3. "Wǎnshàng Hǎo" (晚上好) – Good Evening

Perfect for evening gatherings or formal events, this greeting is less common among close friends but ideal in professional settings.

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4. "Chī Fàn Le Ma?" (吃饭了吗？) – Have You Eaten?

A deeply cultural greeting, "Chī fàn le ma?" reflects Chinese hospitality. It’s not an actual mealtime question but a way to show care.

Note:

• Best used before lunch or dinner hours
• Avoid answering literally—respond with "Chī le" (吃了, "I’ve eaten")

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5. "Zuìjìn Zěnmeyàng?" (最近怎么样？) – How Have You Been?

A casual yet warm way to check in on friends or acquaintances. Similar to "How’s it going?" in English.

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6. "Máng Ma?" (忙吗？) – Are You Busy?

Common among coworkers or friends, this phrase acknowledges someone’s schedule before starting a conversation.

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7. "Qù Nǎr?" (去哪儿？) – Where Are You Going?

Though it may seem intrusive in Western cultures, this greeting is a friendly icebreaker in China.

Response tip:

• Keep it vague: "Wài chū" (外出, "Going out")

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8. "Jīntiān Tiānqì Zhēn Hǎo" (今天天气真好) – The Weather Is Nice Today

A safe, neutral greeting, especially with strangers or in small-talk situations.

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9. "Hǎo Jiǔ Bù Jiàn" (好久不见) – Long Time No See

Used when reuniting with someone after a while, this phrase carries warmth and nostalgia.

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10. "Gōngxǐ Fācái" (恭喜发财) – Wishing You Prosperity

A traditional Lunar New Year greeting, but also used in business contexts to wish success.

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Comparison Table: Formal vs. Casual Greetings

Greeting	Formality Level	Best Used For
Nín hǎo (您好)	High	Elders, business meetings
Zǎo shang hǎo (早上好)	Medium	Workplace, morning encounters
Chī fàn le ma? (吃饭了吗？)	Low	Friends, informal settings
Gōngxǐ fācái (恭喜发财)	High (festive)	New Year, business milestones

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Common Questions About Chinese Greetings

Q1: Is "Nǐ hǎo" too basic for daily use?

While "Nǐ hǎo" is correct, native speakers often prefer context-specific greetings like "Chī fàn le ma?" or "Zuìjìn zěnmeyàng?"

Q2: Can I use "Hāi" (嗨) like "Hi" in English?

Yes, but mostly with peers. Older generations may find it too casual.

Q3: Why do Chinese people ask "Have you eaten?"

It stems from historical concerns about food scarcity. Today, it’s a cultural gesture of care.

Q4: Is "Wǎnshàng hǎo" commonly used?

Less so in casual talk but expected in hotels, events, or formal dinners.

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Final Thoughts on the 10 Most Authentic Chinese Greetings

From polite "Nín hǎo" to the culturally rich "Chī fàn le ma?", these 10 Most Authentic Chinese Greetings—Beyond ‘Nǐ Hǎo’ and ‘Xièxie’ unlock meaningful interactions. Practice them to sound less like a textbook and more like a local.

Remember, greetings in China aren’t just words—they reflect respect, warmth, and tradition. Whether you're navigating business or making friends, these phrases will open doors.