How to Say “Hello,” “Thank You,” and “Sorry” in Mandarin
🌸 Introduction: Why the First Words You Learn Matter Most
When you begin learning any new language, the first phrases you pick up are more than just words—they’re your first step into a new culture. And in Mandarin Chinese, saying something as simple as “hello,” “thank you,” or “sorry” is about more than direct translation. It’s about showing respect, navigating social cues, and beginning to connect with people across linguistic and cultural boundaries.
Mandarin may seem intimidating at first—with its characters, tones, and unfamiliar sounds—but you’ll be surprised how much you can accomplish with just a few key phrases. In fact, learning how to greet someone, express gratitude, and apologize politely will carry you through most daily interactions whether you’re traveling, doing business, studying abroad, or just ordering food in Chinatown.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the correct Mandarin words for “hello,” “thank you,” and “sorry,” including pronunciation tips, cultural context, and when to use which phrase. We’ll also cover polite responses to these phrases so you’re not just memorizing—you’re communicating.
Ready to start speaking Mandarin? Let’s begin with the basics.
👋 How to Say “Hello” in Mandarin
你好 (nǐ hǎo) – “Hello”
Pronunciation: nee haow (with third tone on both syllables)
Tone tip: Since both syllables use the third tone, in natural speech the first one changes slightly to a rising tone.
When to use it: This is the most common and neutral greeting, suitable for meeting someone for the first time or starting a conversation with a stranger.
Cultural insight: Unlike in English, Mandarin doesn’t use “How are you?” as often in casual greetings. A friendly 你好 is enough.
🙏 How to Say “Thank You” in Mandarin
谢谢 (xièxie) – “Thank you”
Pronunciation: shyeah-shyeah (both with falling tone)
Tone tip: Both syllables use the fourth tone, but in fast speech, the second one often softens.
When to use it: Use 谢谢 whenever someone does something for you—hands you something, gives you directions, or helps you in any way. It’s polite and always appreciated.
不客气 (bú kèqi) – “You’re welcome”
Pronunciation: boo kuh-chee
Literal meaning: “Don’t be polite.”
When to use it: This is the standard response to 谢谢 in Mandarin. It’s modest and kind—a culturally appropriate way to brush off thanks with humility.
😔 How to Say “Sorry” in Mandarin
There are two main ways to apologize in Mandarin, depending on the situation.
对不起 (duìbuqǐ) – “I’m sorry” (serious)
Pronunciation: dway-boo-chee
Use it when: You’ve made a mistake or caused an inconvenience.
Example: You bumped into someone or missed an appointment.
不好意思 (bù hǎoyìsi) – “Excuse me” / “Sorry” (light)
Pronunciation: boo haow-yee-suh
Use it when: You’re being slightly rude or need to interrupt someone, like squeezing through a crowded space or speaking up in class.
Cultural insight: Mandarin places a high value on maintaining group harmony and showing humility. Even minor inconveniences are often acknowledged with 不好意思.
🔄 Bonus: How to Say “It’s Okay”
没关系 (méi guānxi) – “It’s okay” / “No problem”
Pronunciation: may gwan-shee
Use it when: Responding to an apology to tell someone not to worry. It’s polite and friendly.
Example:
A: 对不起。 (I’m sorry.)
B: 没关系。 (It’s okay.)
🧠 Summary Table
English Mandarin Pinyin Notes
Hello 你好 nǐ hǎo Standard greeting
Thank you 谢谢 xièxie Use frequently
You’re welcome 不客气 bú kèqi Literally: “Don’t be polite”
I’m sorry 对不起 duìbuqǐ For real apologies
Excuse me/sorry 不好意思 bù hǎoyìsi Softer, more casual apology
It’s okay 没关系 méi guānxi Reassuring someone after apology
📚 FAQs About Polite Mandarin Expressions
❓Do I need to use the correct tones when saying these?
Yes, tones are important in Mandarin. Mispronouncing a tone can change the meaning. But don’t worry—native speakers are usually patient and can understand from context.
❓Is 你好 appropriate in formal situations?
Yes, but in business or very formal settings, you might add a title: 你好，王先生 (Hello, Mr. Wang). Still, 你好 is polite and widely used.
❓Can I just smile and say 谢谢?
Absolutely! A warm 谢谢 with a smile is universally appreciated and can go a long way in making positive connections.
❓When should I use 对不起 vs. 不好意思?
Use 对不起 when you’ve done something wrong. Use 不好意思 when you’re being slightly inconvenient or want to politely get someone’s attention.
❓Do people actually say “You’re welcome” in Mandarin?
Yes—不客气 is common. Some also say 没事 or 没问题, meaning “No problem.”
📣 Want to Learn More Mandarin the Easy Way?
At Polyglottist Language Academy, we teach Mandarin in a warm, relaxed environment that focuses on real-world conversation. Our small group classes (3–6 students max) are perfect for beginners who want to speak with confidence and understand the culture behind the words.
Whether you're in Berkeley, Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose, or anywhere online, we’ve got a course for you.
👉 Sign up today and start building your Mandarin skills, one phrase at a time! Click here to enroll.
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Mastering Politeness Levels And Formality In Different Cultures
Building A Daily Language Routine: How Consistency Drives Fluency
The journey to fluency starts with a few simple phrases. Let us help you build from there—with community, clarity, and confidence. Join us at Polyglottist Language Academy today.
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