How Do People Greet Each Other in China?
Did you know there’s actually no single language called “Chinese”? Instead, China has a group of languages, including Mandarin and Cantonese. Among them, Mandarin is the most widely spoken. It’s also the language used by scholars, the government, and most schools. When learning Mandarin, it’s helpful to understand not just the words but also the customs that go along with them.
In Mandarin, when people say “hello,” they usually say “Nǐ hǎo” (你好). But if they are greeting someone they want to show extra respect to—like a teacher, a grandparent, or someone important—they say “Nín hǎo” (您好) instead. That one small sound change, from “ni” to “nin,” shows a big sign of politeness!
Chinese greetings also change based on age. Older people are often called “Elder + Last Name,” while younger people might be called “Younger + Last Name.” In group settings, it’s a sign of respect to greet the oldest person first.
Shaking Hands, Not Hugs
In many Western countries, hugging is common. But in China, touching strangers when you first meet isn’t very usual. Most people will shake hands if they are meeting for the first time, especially in formal or business settings. If you’re not sure what to do, just follow their lead.
Interrupting someone when they are talking is also considered rude. People in China wait their turn to speak, and it’s polite to listen carefully and respond after the other person is done.
What About Smiling and Frowning?
Facial expressions in China can have different meanings than you might expect. For example, a smile usually shows friendliness, but sometimes it can also mean someone feels nervous or embarrassed. A frown isn’t just a sign of sadness—it can show that someone disagrees with what was said. So it’s important to be careful with expressions when speaking with someone from China!
Understanding how greetings and expressions work in different cultures can help kids become more respectful and confident global citizens. With Dinolingo, children can learn Mandarin not just through words but also by exploring the customs, values, and everyday ways people connect in Chinese culture.