How to say "Hello" in Chinese

Meaning

A standard greeting used to acknowledge someone when meeting them.

Usage

Use '你好' (nǐ hǎo) in most casual and neutral situations. It works for both formal and informal contexts, though in very formal settings, '您好' (nín hǎo) may be preferred. Pronounce the tones clearly: the first word has a rising tone (nǐ), and the second has a falling-rising tone (hǎo).

Example sentences

• Hello! How are you?

  你好！你好吗？

• Hello, everyone.

  大家好。

Related expressions

• 您好nín hǎo— A more formal way to say 'hello,' often used when addressing elders or superiors.

  Use '您好' in formal settings or when showing respect.

• 喂wèi— A casual or informal greeting, often used when answering the phone or calling out to someone.

  Avoid using '喂' in formal written communication.