Chinese Class 101: How to Say Hello in Chinese

Learning Chinese can feel challenging at first, but starting with simple and practical phrases makes it easier. One of the most important words you’ll use every day is “Hello”.

Basic Greeting: 你好 (Nǐ hǎo)

The most common way to say hello in Chinese is 你好, pronounced nǐ hǎo. - Nǐ means “you” - Hǎo means “good” Put together, it literally means “You good.”

This phrase is polite, simple, and can be used with almost anyone. If you’re meeting someone for the first time, 你好 is always safe.

More Ways to Say Hello

• 大家好 (Dàjiā hǎo) — “Hello everyone” (used to greet a group)
• 老师好 (Lǎoshī hǎo) — “Hello teacher” (respectful greeting in class)
• 喂 (Wéi) — “Hello” (commonly used when answering the phone)

When to Use Them

- Use 你好 for general greetings. - Use 大家好 when addressing a group of people. - Use 喂 only when answering calls.

Quick Practice

Next time you meet a Chinese friend, smile and say: 你好！ (Nǐ hǎo!)

Hafrik Chinese Class – Making life in China easier, one word at a time.