Professional Documents
Culture Documents
compiled by
Tal
1
Contents
9 Apologizing
12 Saying Goodbye
17 Compliment
22 Appraisal
27 Affirmation
31 Negation
35 Agreement
39 Opposition
44 Comforting
49 Admonition
57 Dissatisfaction
63 Doubting
68 Surprise
74 Appointment
77 Rejection
84 To Let Go
88 Helplessness
91 Challenge
2
98 Formalities
Appendix
110 Proverbs
3
1 Duxi. Thanks a lot.
A:
B:
A:
A:
B: 22
A:
This is a commonly used expression to say thanks. You may use it to express gratitude
whenever someone helps you.
Synonymous Expressions
Xixie.
Fichng gnxi.
4
2 Mfan nn le. Thanks for the
help.
A:
B:
A:
A:
B:
This expression literally means (sorry for) troubling you, and is used to express
your gratitude to the person who takes the trouble to help you.
Synonymous Expressions
Ti mfan nn le.
5
3 Xnk le. So much toil for you.
A:
B:
A:
B:
This expression is used to comfort and show understanding for the person who has put
great effort into something meaningful and positive.
Synonymous Expressions
6
4 Nr de hu. Dont mention it.
A:
B:
A:
B:
This is a casual and idiomatic response to somebody saying thanks, which is often
used between acquaintances and good friends.
Synonymous Expressions
Bi zhme shu.
Bi kqi.
7
5 Ynggi de. Its my pleasure.
A:
B:
A: Xixie n de bngzh.
B: Kqi shnme, znmen sh pngyou, ynggi de.
A:
B:
A: Teacher Li, every week you come to give us a lesson after school. We really dont
know how to thank you
B: Youre welcome. Its my pleasure.
When others say thanks to you, you may reply with this expression to show that you
think its your obligation to help them.
Synonymous Expressions
Zh sh w ynggi zu de.
8
6 Dubuq. Im sorry.
A:
B:
A:
B:
If you ever think youve done something improper, you may use this commonly used
expression to ask for forgiveness.
Synonymous Expressions
! Qng yunling!
9
7 Zhn boqin. Im really sorry.
A: ,
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
! Zhn b ho ysi!
10
8 Migunxi. It doesnt matter.
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
Mishnme.
11
9 B sng le. Ill stop here.
A:
B:
A:
B:
A: Im quite familiar with the way. You dont have to accompany me any further.
B: OK, well stop here. Take care.
This is a casual expression used by hosts when they see a guest off. You may use this
phrase if you do not intend to accompany your guest further from your home.
Synonymous Expressions
12
10 Mn zu! Take care!
A:
B:
A: W yo huji le.
B: Ho ba, n n mn zu, w ji b sng le.
A:
B:
This expression literally means walk slowly, which indicates that the host wishes
the guest bon voyage.
Synonymous Expressions
Zu ho.
Qng mn zu.
13
11 Bi sng le. Theres no need to
go any further.
A:
B:
A: Its too late now, just go back please. Theres no need to go any further.
B: Alright, take care.
A: ,
B:
This expression is used by a guest. In China, some hosts have the custom of
accompanying guests out the door or farther when they leave to show respect and
friendliness.
Synonymous Expressions
Huq ba.
14
12 Lib ba. Please stop here.
A:
B:
A: Ill say goodbye here. Come again when you have time
B: Please stop here. Ill surely come again
A:
B:
This expression is similar to (bi sng le, theres no need to go any further)
or (huq ba, please go back), but a little bit more formal.
Synonymous Expressions
Qng lib.
15
13 Shpi le. Excuse me, I have to go
now.
A:
B:
A: Something urgent has come up at the company, I have to go back right away.
Sorry, I have to go
B: It doesnt matter.
A:
B:
A: Excuse me, I have to go now. I have something else to attend to. Please continue.
B: OK, see you.
This is a polite expression used when you have to leave your friends at gatherings.
Synonymous Expressions
16
14 Gn de ho! Well done!
A:
B:
A:
B:
This expression is used to give praise or show admiration for good deeds.
Synonymous Expressions
Gn de bcu!
Hoyngrde!
17
15 K b le! Cool!
A:
B:
A:
B:
The expression literally means cool to the point of death. The character (k) is
a transliteration of the English word cool. Young people often use this expression to
pay a compliment when they think someone or something is very modern or
fashionable.
Synonymous Expressions
Zhn k!
Ti k le!
18
16 Ti bng le! Great!
A:
B:
A:
B:
A: Zh bn sh znmeyng?
B: Ti bng le, n y nq knkan ba.
The expression is commonly used by the northerners in China to praise anything that
is admired: a dish, a book, a performance or a behavior.
Synonymous Expressions
Bng j le!
Zhn bng!
19
17 Zhn liobuq! Its admirable!
A:
B:
A:
B:
A: My brother speculated in the stock market and made half a million dollars in a
year!
B: Your brother is admirable.
Synonymous Expressions
Zhn xng!
Zhn bdlio!
20
18 Zhn yu lingxizi.
Youre so capable.
A:
B:
A: Zh sh w zj zu de yfu.
B: Kn bu chli, n hi zhn yu lingxizi.
A:
B:
This expression is used to compliment someone who you think is capable and skilful.
Synonymous Expressions
Zhn yu bnshi.
Zhn b jindn.
21
19 ! B ti ho! Not too good!
A:
B:
A:
B:
The Chinese and English versions of the expression are almost equivalent. Inserting
(ti too) between (b - not and (ho good) makes the tone more
mild and polite.
Synonymous Expressions
B znme ho.
B ti lxing.
22
20 Ji nme hu shr.
(Its) nothing special.
A:
B:
A:
B:
You may use this expression to express your dissatisfaction if you think something is
humdrum or mediocre. The literal meaning of the expression is its just like that.
The tone is comparatively strong.
Synonymous Expressions
B znmeyng.
23
21 Hishi lo yngzi.
Still the same old story.
A:
B:
A:
B:
You use this expression to show your dissatisfaction or anxiety when someone or the
state of affairs are not progressing or changing.
Synonymous Expressions
Mi shnme binhu.
24
22 Hi xng. Acceptable.
A:
B:
A:
B:
A: N kn zh to fngzi znmeyang?
B: Hi xng, wizh h hunjng du hi ky.
If you think something is generally adequate, though not without some deficiencies,
use this expression.
Synonymous Expressions
Hi ky.
Hi bcu.
25
23 Mmhh. Passable.
A:
B:
A:
B:
Use this expression to evaluate someone or something that is neither very good nor
very bad.
Synonymous Expressions
Ybnbn.
Cuhe.
26
24 Cubulio! It cant be
wrong!
A:
B:
A:
B:
Use this expression to reassure someone who somewhat doubts what you said or did.
Synonymous Expressions
Mi cu.
B hu cu de.
27
25 Mi wnt. No problem.
A:
B:
A:
B:
When someone feels worried or lacks confidence in what youre doing, you can use
this expression to reassure him. At the same time, it implies a promise.
Synonymous Expressions
Wnt b d.
28
26 ! N dngrn! Of course!
A:
B:
A:
B:
This is an affirmative and confident expression that is used to dispel the doubts of
others when you think you have no problem in doing something.
Synonymous Expressions
Dngrn!
Dngrn la
29
27 N hi yng shu. Absolutely!
A:
B:
A:
B:
When someone expresses doubt about something you are proud of because they lack
full knowledge, you can respond with this expression. It has a sense of pride,
confidence, even complacency.
Synonymous Expressions
N sh.
30
28 B knng. Its impossible
A:
B:
A:
B:
A: You two have a good talk and maybe the conflict will be resolved.
B: Its impossible. We have nothing to say to each other.
Use this expression when you think the odds of something happening are very low.
Synonymous Expressions
B hu de.
31
29 Gu zhdo! Only the devil
knows!
A:
B:
A:
B:
This expression is one of denial that means: I dont know. It expresses the idea that
you are unable to understand, are dissatisfied, or dont care about something. It
conveys a tone of dissatisfaction and complaint.
Synonymous Expressions
Shi zhdo.
Tin zhdo.
32
30 Shi shu de? Who said that?
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
Miyu zh hu shr.
33
31 Xing de mi! In your dreams!
A:
B:
A:
B:
The literal meaning of the Chinese expression is (you) think so beautifully (that your
idea can never be realized). It is used to ridicule someone whose expectation is too
high or whose ideas are unrealistic. It shows that you are strongly opposed to
someones ideas or suggestions and want them to give up their position. Women
usually use it.
Synonymous Expressions
Zumng!
B knng!
34
32 Hoshu. Alright.
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
Mi de shu.
Mi shu de.
35
33 ! Ho zhyi! Good idea!
A:
B:
A: Lets open an internet bar. Im sure we can make money, because there are so
many web-surfers nowadays.
B: Good idea!
A:
B:
A: For this trip how about we go there by train and come back by plane?
B: Good idea! That way we can save both time and money.
Synonymous Expressions
Ti ho le
Ho bnf
Hoj le!
36
34 Xng. OK.
A: DVD
B:
A:
B:
This is a simple and idiomatic way of expressing agreement. If you think someones
request or suggestion is reasonable, you can use this expression to show your
agreement.
Synonymous Expressions
Ho.
Ho ba.
Ky.
37
35 Yu dol! Youre right.
A:
B:
A: You must have continuous beauty treatments in order to have good looking skin.
B: Youre right.
A:
B:
A: Early to bed and early to rise makes a person healthy, wealthy, and wise.
B: Eh, youre right.
This expression means that you agree with others suggestions or ideas, but without
commitment.
Synonymous Expressions
Shu de du!
38
36 Hshu bdo! Nonsense!
A: HSK
B:
A:
B:
A: Xiao Liu said you can make big money by pyramid selling.
B: Nonsense! Thats illegal.
Synonymous Expressions
H shu!
Hch!
39
37 Hu b nng zhme shu.
You cant be that conclusive.
A:
B:
A:
B:
Use this roundabout expression when you disagree with someones opinion, but dont
want to embarrass him.
Synonymous Expressions
Y bjnrn.
Bjnrn ba.
40
38 Mimnr! No way!
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
Zumng!
Xixing!
41
39 N n xng a! Thats
unacceptable!
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
N b xng.
N znme xng a!
42
40 ? N yu bng ya?! Are you
nuts?
A:
B: ?! ?
A:
B: ?!
Synonymous Expressions
Yu mobng ya n!
43
41 Bi dnxn. Dont worry.
A:
B:
A:
B:
This is an expression that is used to comfort your friend who is worried about
someone or something. Usually you add a reassuring reason before or after the
expression.
Synonymous Expressions
Fngxn ba.
Fngxn.
44
42 Bi j ! Be patient!
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
J shnme.
Zho shnme j.
45
43 Xing ki dinr. Look on the
bright side.
A:
B:
A: My health isnt good, and my wife is out of work again. How can I go on?
B: Look on the bright side. Everything will turn out fine.
A:
B:
A: I can never get along with the manager. I really dont want to work under him any
more.
B: Look on the bright side; and besides, all superiors are alike.
When someone is caught up in difficulties, is in low spirits, looks on the dark side,
feels disappointed, and is even desperate, use this expression to console him, open his
mind to look at things from a different point of view, and relax his state of mind.
Synonymous Expressions
Bi lo xingbuki.
46
44 Mishr. Its nothing.
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
Mishnme.
47
45 Pci minzi. A loss of wealth is
a gain of health.
A:
B:
A: W de shuj yu di le.
B: Bi xntng, pci minzi.
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
Shci rnn.
48
46 ! Bi dolun! Dont make trouble!
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
49
47 ! Bi duxn! Dont be so sensitive!
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
Bi xi ci!
Bi xi xing!
50
48 ! Bi duzu! Dont interrupt!
A:
B:
A:
B:
This reprimand is used when you think someone speaks at the wrong time or is not
qualified to interrupt. For example, parents may use this expression to stop a child
from interrupting adults conversations.
Synonymous Expressions
Bx duzu.
Sho duzu.
51
49 Bi xiokn rn. Dont
belittle others.
A:
B:
A:
B:
A: Hey kid, this chair is really heavy. Can you lift it?
B: Mum, dont belittle me. Ive already grown up.
This is a confident reply to someone who you think looks down on you or others. In
this expression, (xio kn) means to look down upon, to despise. If you
think someone looks down upon your ability, you can use this expression in response.
Synonymous Expressions
Bi qiobuq rn ya.
52
50 Hb ne? No need for that.
A:
B:
A: I work under too much pressure. Sometimes I just dont want to live any more.
B: No need for that. At worst, you can find another job.
A:
B:
A: W zhn shubulio w titai nge hui pq, xing gn t lhn sun le.
B: Hb ne? Hizi du nme d le.
A: I really cant bear that bad temper of my wife. I just want to divorce her.
B: No need for that. After all, your kid has grown into such a big child.
Synonymous Expressions
Hk ne?
Yu shnme byo a?
53
51 Sun le ba! Just leave it as it is!
A:
B:
A: The roast duck is a little raw. Ill find the server to have it exchanged.
B: Just leave it as it is. I can put up with it.
A:
B:
A: I bought two jin of tomatoes. How come its four liang less? Ill talk to the
peddler.
B: Just leave it as it is and dont buy from him next time.
This is an expression that is used to persuade someone. For example, if your friend
has a conflict with someone, you can use this expression to persuade him to give up
his own position or to compromise in order to resolve the conflict.
Synonymous Expressions
Xng le.
D le.
54
52 Wnwn bk! Never do that!
A:
B:
A:
B:
When a friend is planning to do something rash and harmful you may use this
expression to admonish him not to do so in order to avoid bringing about a bad result.
The tone of the expression is both cordial and direct.
Synonymous Expressions
Qinwn bi!
Shbud!
55
53 Zuho bi. Youd better not.
A:
B:
A:
B:
This is an expression of both admonition and advice. Use this when you think
someones idea or conduct is improper or may entail adverse consequences.
Synonymous Expressions
56
54 Bxinghu. Thats shocking!
A:
B:
A: Xiao Lis father fell seriously ill and he wont go home to see him.
B: Thats shocking! How can a son be like that?
A:
B:
If you think someones words or actions are contrary to common sense, even causing
people to be resentful or indignant, then you can use this expression to condemn him.
Synonymous Expressions
Ti bxinghu le.
Zhn bxinghu.
57
55 Ti gufn le! Hes gone too far!
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
Ti mi tinl le.
58
56 Ymn! Sulk!
A:
B:
A:
B:
A very popular expression used by young people in China. This phrase implies a
sense of resentment and discontent. You can use this expression when something is
beyond your patience and you cant stand it any more.
Synonymous Expressions
Zhn shubulio.
59
57 Znme go de? What happened?
A:
B:
A:
B:
When you cant understand someones action or the result of something, you can use
this expression to question him. It has a sense of resentment, anxiety, and agitation.
Synonymous Expressions
Znme hu sh?
60
58 Zhnshde! What a pity!
A:
B:
A: Look at this mobile phone. Something has gone wrong with it after I used it for
only two days.
B: What a pity! The quality is really bad.
A: HSK
B:
A: I just missed the chance to pass the HSK test band six this time.
B: Too bad. Its a great pity.
This expression is used to show dissatisfaction, pity, and regret. An explanation of the
reason is given either before or after the expression.
Synonymous Expressions
Znme hu zh yng a!
61
59 Zhn wlio! Tiresome!
A:
B:
A:
B:
A: Liu Fei simply loves to speak ill of others behind their backs.
B: This kind of person is tiresome!
If you have no interest in someone or something, you can use this expression. The
tone has a sense of dissatisfaction and disappointment.
Synonymous Expressions
Zhn mi ysi.
Zhn mi q.
62
60 B hu ba. That cant be.
A:
B:
A:
B:
A: Our son hasnt come back yet. Could there be something wrong?
B: That cant be. Dont scare me.
If you think what someone said is contrary to common sense, or is unbelievable, you
can use this expression to show your doubt.
Synonymous Expressions
Nr hu a.
63
61 Chuni! Braggart!
A:
B:
A:
B:
This expression literally means blow the cow. You can use this expression when
you think someone is exaggerating. It is usually used between close acquaintances.
Synonymous Expressions
Bi chu le.
Bi chuni le.
64
62 Ti kuzhng le ba. Unbelievable!
A:
B:
A:
B:
A: I hear Lao Zhang made three million dollars by speculating in the stock market
this year.
B: Unbelievable! Ill do the same next year.
Synonymous Expressions
Knng ma?
65
63 Znme hu ne? How could that be?
A:
B:
A: Lets go. Lao Zhang and his company may not come.
B: How could that be? He promised to come.
A:
B:
When you doubt or disbelieve what someone said, you can use this expression as a
question in reply.
Synonymous Expressions
B hu ba.
B knng.
66
64 Zhn de ma? Really?
A:
B:
A:
B:
When you feel that what someone said is unexpected or doubtful, you can use this
expression as a question in reply.
Synonymous Expressions
Sh ma?
67
65 Hojihuo. Good gracious!
A:
B:
A: N kn w dio de zh tio y.
B: Hojihuo! Zhme d gr.
A:
B:
A: Good gracious! You have your own car, youve made your fortune I bet.
B: You are far ahead of me.
Synonymous Expressions
Yh!
68
66 Tin na! My God!
A:
B:
A:
B:
This is an expression commonly used to show various emotions, such as surprise, fear,
regret, or happiness.
Synonymous Expressions
M ya!
Wde m ya!
69
67 W si! Wow!
A:
B:
A: Zh sh w nr.
B: W si! Zhng de ho pioliang ya.
A: This is my daughter.
B: Wow! Shes so beautiful.
A:
B:
A: W xi de sh chbn le.
B: W si! N zhn lhai!
Young people in China often use this expression to show surprise and admiration.
Synonymous Expressions
W!
70
68 Yunli rc! Oh, I see!
A:
B:
A:
A:
B:
A:
This expression is used by someone who has a sudden realization of the reason for, or
the truth of something and they no longer think it strange.
Synonymous Expressions
Guibud ne.
Nngui ne.
71
69 Zogo! What bad luck!
A:
B:
A: Znme yu g hwi?
B: Zogo, mfn h le.
A: Somethings burning?
B: What bad luck! Its the rice burning.
A:
B:
This expression occurs spontaneously when someone suddenly realizes that there is a
problem.
Synonymous Expressions
Hui le!
Zo le!
72
70 Zhn mi xingdo. I never
knew that.
A:
B:
A: Xio Li mi le y to bish.
B: T nme yuqin ya, zhn mi xingdo.
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
73
71 B jin b sn. See you there.
A:
B:
A: Well meet at the gate of the park at ten oclock tomorrow morning.
B: OK, see you there.
A:
B:
A: Ill wait for you at the gate of the cinema at six this evening.
B: OK, see you there.
This expression is used to warn someone of an appointment. For example, you and
your friend have already agreed upon a time and place to meet, and then you use this
expression to emphasize that you will keep the appointment and you want your friend
to do the same.
(Editors Note: Chinese friends tell me this expression actually has a light-hearted
tone, indeed I have it seen it translated elsewhere as: Be there or be square!, not
something we really say in English nowadays but I hope you get the idea.)
Synonymous Expressions
Do shhou jin.
74
72 Di hur jin. See you in a
minute.
A:
B:
A: W zi bngngsh dng n.
B: Ho, di hur jin.
A:
B:
This is a self-evident expression that is used when parting for a short time.
Synonymous Expressions
Yhur jin.
Hutu jin.
75
73 Yyn widng! Its a deal!
A:
B:
A:
B:
This expression is used to indicate that something has been agreed to and will not
change.
Synonymous Expressions
Shu ho le.
76
74 B yng le. No need.
A:
B:
A: W li zufn ba.
B: B yng le, n li le y tin, xi hur ba.
A:
B:
This is an expression used to refuse an invitation or an offer of help. You can use this
expression when someone offers you help, but you dont want to trouble him.
Synonymous Expressions
Bb le.
B xyo.
77
75 Gitin ba. Maybe some other time.
A:
B:
A:
B:
This is a polite rejection to an invitation. Its literal meaning is (lets do it) some other
day. When you dont want to accept someones invitation and you dont want to say
so directly, you can use this expression to refuse in a roundabout way.
Synonymous Expressions
Xic ba.
Yhu ba.
78
76 Zi shu ba. Lets talk it over later.
A:
B:
A:
B:
Use this expression when you can neither accept nor overtly turn down a request to
put off a matter. This expression can also be understood as a roundabout way of
expressing a rejection.
Synonymous Expressions
Yhu zi shu.
79
77 W shutu y b fy.
Im feeling the pinch myself.
A:
B:
A: I want to buy a car, but I dont have enough money. Could you lend me some?
B: Sorry, Im feeling the pinch myself.
A:
B:
Use this expression to show a polite and tactful refusal to lend money to someone
when you do not have or are not willing to lend money.
Synonymous Expressions
W shutu y quqin.
W shutu y b kuny.
80
78 Dngxn! Watch out!
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
Xioxn!
81
79 Du linx. Stay in touch.
A:
B:
A: Youre general manager now. Dont forget us, and stay in touch.
B: Of course I wont forget you. Ill contact you often.
A:
B:
A: Thank you for calling me. Lets stay in touch from now on.
B: OK, stay in touch.
This expression can be said to a parting friend or a friend who is far away. The aim is
to encourage them to stay in touch.
Synonymous Expressions
Boch linx.
Chng linx.
82
80 Mn dinr! Be careful.
A:
B:
A: M, w shngbn q le.
B: Mn dinr, lshang ch du.
A:
B:
A: Wimian de xu xi de zhn d.
B: Mn dinr, bi shui le.
This expression is used to show concern for someone. If your friend is preparing to do
something, you use this expression to warn him to be careful and not to be in a hurry.
Synonymous Expressions
Xioxn dinr!
83
81 Tng n de! At your command!
A:
B:
A:
B:
The use of this expression indicates you respect the wishes and choice of your partner.
Synonymous Expressions
Su n.
N shu ba.
84
82 Wsuwi. I dont care.
A:
B:
A:
B:
This expression is used to indicate that you are very open and tolerant about the
choice to be made.
Synonymous Expressions
W b jiy.
W b zihu.
85
83 Xnbuxn yu n. Believe it or not.
A:
B:
A:
B:
The expression is used to indicate that you dont care about the suspicion of others
when they doubt what you have said.
Synonymous Expressions
ixn bxn.
Bxn ldo.
86
84 Znme du xng. Whatever.
A:
B:
A:
B:
The expression is used to transfer your right of making a decision to your partner. You
will abide by his decision.
Synonymous Expressions
Subin.
Znme du ky.
87
85 B gn b xng a. I have no
choice.
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
Mi fzi ya.
88
86 Mi bnf. Theres nothing I can do.
A:
B:
A: N znme yu li wn le.
B: Mi bnf, lshang d ch.
A:
B:
This expression has a tone of helplessness. It means that you have no control over
events. You can only let matters take their own course.
Synonymous Expressions
Mi zh.
89
87 Tngtin yumng ba. Just let it be.
A:
B:
A:
B:
This expression has a tone of helplessness. It literally means just let providence or
fate decide. Use it when you have no recourse and can only leave matters to
providence.
Synonymous Expressions
Kn lotiny de le.
90
88 N ywi n sh shi? Who do you
think you are?
A:
B:
A: Why are you always criticizing me? Who do you think you are?
B: You must be senseless. I do it for your own good.
A:
B:
A: Xio Ln, n qfu xio tngxu sh b du de, kui xing rnji doqin.
B: N ywi n sh shi? Jrn gn guan w.
A: Xiao Lin, youre wrong to bully those younger classmates. You must apologize to
them at once.
B: Who do you think you are? How dare you poke your nose into my business?
If you think there are some problems with someones behavior or the way they do
things, such as being arrogant and looking down on others, you can say
(n ywi n sh shi) to him. Your aim is to get him to realize that there is no
difference between him and others, and that he should respect other people.
Synonymous Expressions
N sun lo j!
91
89 N zh sh shnme tid?
What kind of attitude is that?
A:
B:
A:
A:
B:
A:
This expression doesnt mean that you want to know a persons actual attitude, but is
used to express a strong resentment or protest against someone elses bad attitude.
Synonymous Expressions
Shnme tid a!
92
90 Zh y n yu shnme gunx?
Whats it to you?
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
B guan n de sh!
93
91
N yu shnme zg zhz w?
Why do you think youre good enough to blame me?
A:
B:
A: N yu shnme zg zhz w?
B: N zu de b du, w znme b nng shu n!
A:
B:
The literal meaning of this expression is what qualifications do you have to blame
me? It is a rhetorical question meaning: you are not qualified to find fault with me.
This is expresses strong resentment towards a person who lays blame on you.
Synonymous Expressions
94
92 Gngx gngx! Congratulations.
A:
B:
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
Zhh zhh!
95
93 Yl shnfng! Bon voyage!
A:
B:
A:
B:
This is an auspicious expression used when you see someone off. It is usually used at
an airport or train station. For example, if your friend is going to travel or study
abroad, you can use this to express good wishes to him at the airport when you say
goodbye.
Synonymous Expressions
Yl pingn!
96
94 Zh n chnggng! I wish you
success!
A:
B:
A:
B:
This expression conveys your wish for someones success when that someone faces
something important and they hope to succeed very much.
Synonymous Expressions
Zh n mdo chnggng!
97
95 Gujing le! Not really!
A:
B:
A: You speak very good Chinese. Where did you learn it?
B: Not really! I taught myself.
A:
B:
The literal meaning of this expression is youre overpraising me, a typical Chinese
way of expressing contentment to show modesty. When someone praises you or your
family members and you feel that the praise is too great, you can use this expression.
Synonymous Expressions
Bgndng.
98
96 Rng nn jinxio le. Dont
restrain your criticisms.
A:
B:
A: Zh shu sh sh n zu de ba?
B: Ng, rng nn jinxio le.
A:
B:
This expression shows self-modesty. For example, when someone praises an article
that you wrote, you can say (xi de b ho, rng nn
jinxio le) to show your modesty.
Synonymous Expressions
Jinxio le.
99
97 Nl, nl! Dont say that.
A:
B:
A:
B:
This expression can be used to show your modesty when someone praises you. Its
literal meaning of where, where is a very Chinese response to a compliment.
Synonymous Expressions
Nr ya!
100
98 Qng dudu bohn.
Please forgive me.
A:
B:
A: Im new here and unfamiliar with the companys situation. Please forgive me if I
do anything inappropriate.
B: Dont say that! I have to learn from you.
A:
B:
Synonymous Expressions
101
99 Rng n pfi le. Youve
spent too much on this.
A:
B:
A: Zh sh w song gi nn de lw.
B: Y, mi zhme guzhng de dngxi gn shnme! Rng nn pfi le.
A:
B:
This is an expression of gratitude, and as it were, a very Chinese one. In China, the
recipient of a gift uses this expression to indicate his understanding and appreciation
of the senders friendly feelings.
Synonymous Expressions
102
100 Yqi hi ho ba? Is everything OK?
A:
B:
A:
B:
This is a polite expression used when two people meet each other. It conveys ones
respects and concern. You do not have to respond with a concrete answer. Saying only
(hi xng) or (b cu, and so on is OK.
Synonymous Expressions
Zujn znmeyng?
Du tng ho de ba?
103
Appendix
Allegorical Phrases
1.
chh l zh jiozi - yu ku do (do) b ch
2.
d p shgu - wn (wn) do d
3.
dinxin gnzi bang jmo - ho d dn (dn) zi
4.
y de ynli - ji cbi
5.
fi p hu - z q miwng
6.
gu n hozi - dugun xinsh
A dog that catches mice to poke ones nose into other peoples business.
104
7.
gu nin yzi - gugu jio
8.
gu yo L Dngbn - b sh ho rn xn
The dog bites Lu Dongbin biting the hand that feeds you.
9.
hn Xn yng bng - du du y shn
10.
hshang d sn - w f (f) w tin
A monk holding an umbrella above his head there is no hair and no sky (shows
no respect for law or authority).
A play on the words [f] and [f].
11.
hshang tu shang de shzi - mng bi zhe
12.
hu sh tin z - du c y j
Drawing a picture of a snake with feet - more than enough is too much.
13.
hungshlng gi j binin - mi n ho xn
14.
jdn li tou tio gtou - w zhng shng yu
105
15.
Jing tigng dioy - yun zh shnggu
Jiang Taigong fishing (with a straight hook) - only the willing will get
hooked.
16.
Kng fzi bnji - jng sh sh (sh)
Confucius moves to a new house - nothing but books (loses all the time) (a
play on the words [sh] and [sh] ).
17.
loh pgu - mbude
18.
ln zhn m qing - b kui y gung
Sharpen a spear only before a battle - if its not sharp, at least its bright
(implies that someone starts to prepare only at the last moment).
19.
lngzi rduo - bish
20.
mbdi shang xihu - dzi ti ch
21.
n ps gu jing - zshn nnbo
22.
q l kn chngbn - zu zhe qio
Reading a book on the donkey-back - wait and see how things work out.
106
23.
qi hu de mzha - bngbulio j tin
A grasshopper at the end of autumn - its jumping days are numbered (it will
die soon).
24.
ro bozi d gu - yu q w hu
25.
snshli j - zu wi shng
26.
sh j yng ni do - xio t d zu
27.
shw ge diotng d shu - q shng b xi
Fifteen buckets to draw water from a well - seven up and eight down (at sixes
and sevens, in disorder).
28.
ti gngj - y mo b b
Like an iron rooster - not a feather can be pulled out (miserly, very stingy).
29.
tudng shng chung, jio d li nng - hui tu le
Ulcer on the head and pus on the foot - to be rotten to the core.
30.
tzi de wiba - chngbulio
Like the tail of a hare - it cant grow longer (something wont last long).
31.
107
wng yng b lo - wi sh b wn
Mend the fence after the sheep is lost - its not too late yet (its never too late).
32.
wngba ch chngtu - ti le xn
Like a tortoise that has eaten a weight - its heart is as determined as iron.
33.
Wng p mi gu - z mi z ku
Like Mother Wang selling melons - she praises what she sells (every potter
praises his own pots).
34.
xinhu ch zi nifn shang - b pi
35.
xio cng bn dufu - y qng (qng) r bi
Small onions of azure blue and white mixed with white bean curd - one is
blue and the other is white (something is perfectly clear) (a play on the words
[qng] and [qng] ).
36.
zhma kihu - ji ji go
Sesame stalk putting forth flowers - notch by notch, higher and higher (rising
steadily).
37.
Zhu Y d Hung Gi - y ge yun d, y ge yun i
Like Zhou Yu beating Huang Gai - one is willing to beat and the other is
willing to be beaten.
(From a 14th century novel based on events that took place in the third century
A.D. Zhou Yu of the kingdom of Wu cruelly beat Huang Gai, another Wu
general who accepted the beating, and then sent him to the enemy camp in order
to win a battle by deceiving the enemy.)
108
38.
Zh Bji zho jngzi - l wi b sh rn
Zhu Bajie looking at himself in a mirror - not a person inside or outside (to be
blamed by everyone).
39.
zh bzi ch cng - zhung xing
40.
zh ln d shu - y chng kng
Like ladling water with a wicker basket - all in vain (wasted effort).
109
Proverbs
1.
Bi wn b r y jin.
2.
Bng dng sn ch fi y r zh hn.
Rome was not built in a day. (One day of cold cant form three feet of ice.)
3.
Bng cng ku r, hu cng ku ch.
A closed mouth catches no flies and careful talk avoids trouble. (Diseases go into
the mouth and misfortunes come out of it.)
4.
B d b chng jio.
5.
Ch shng nid b p h.
The less wit, the more courage. (A new-born calf is not afraid of the tiger.)
6.
D sh d xi ho chngling.
7.
Dozi zu, dufu xn.
His bark is worse than his bite. (A mouth as sharp as a knife and a heart as soft as
bean-curd.)
8.
Fng jnz b fng xiorn.
The devil lurks behind the cross. (It can only guard against the good but not the
bad.)
110
9.
Gngfu b f yuxnrn.
10.
Ho de kidun sh chnggng de ybn.
11.
Ho ji ho hun, zi ji b nn.
He who borrows to repay may borrow yet another day. (Return what you
borrowed before and you may borrow once more.
12.
Ho sh b chmn, hui sh chun qin l.
Bad news has wings. (Good deeds stay inside, and ill deeds travel far and wide.)
13.
Hunnn jin zhnqng.
14.
J b k sh, sh b zi li.
15.
Ji chu b k wi yng.
16.
Ji ji yu bn nn nin de jng.
Every family has a skeleton in the closet. (Every family has its own sad story.)
111
17.
Jing hishi lo de l.
18.
Li de zo br li de qio.
The hindmost dog may catch the hare. (Early is not as good as the right time.)
19.
Li r b wng fi l y.
Mutuality is property.
20.
Miyu b tufng de qing.
21.
M do b w kn chi gng.
22.
Qing ni de gu b tin.
23.
Qio f nn wi w m zh chu.
24.
Qn xingd, mng sunzhng.
Even reckoning makes long friends. (The account must be clear even between
blood brothers.)
112
25.
Qnggun nn dun jiwsh.
26.
Rn du lliang d.
27.
Shn zhng b p yngzi xi.
A clean wants no washing. (An upright man does not worry about his crooked
shadow.)
28.
Shng bi ni bngji chngsh.
You win some, you lose some. (Winning and losing are commonplace in war.)
29.
Sh nu s, rn nu hu.
30.
Shu coco, coco do.
31.
Tn du jio b ln.
Dont try to do too much at once. (Greed for food causes indigestion.)
32.
Tn xio pinyi ch d ku.
Penny wise, pound foolish. (The greed for small favors results in the loss of big
benefits.)
113
33.
Tzi b ch w bin co.
A man wont harm the people around his home. (A hare wont eat the grass near
his hole.)
34.
W fng b q lng.
35.
Wsh b xio bi b.
The pot calls the kettle black. (Its like a fifty-step escaper laughing at a one
hundred-step escaper.)
36.
Xn guan shngrn sn b hu.
37.
Yngmo ch zi yang shn shang.
38.
Y fn qin y fn hu.
Nothing for nothing and very little for a half penny. (One cent of price, one
element of quality.)
39.
Y ge bzhang pi b xing.
When one will not, two cannot quarrel. (A single hand cannot clap.)
40.
Y nin zh j zi y chn.
A years plan starts with spring. (Spring is the queen of the year.)
114
41.
Yu d b yu sh.
Omelets are not made without breaking eggs. (No pain, no gain.)
42.
Yun shu jibulio jn hu.
43.
Zo shu zo q shnt ho.
Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.
44.
Zhn jn b p hu lin.
45.
Zh z zh chng l.
46.
Zh li bo b zh hu.
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