Polite expressions (礼貌用语 lǐmào yòngyǔ) are often neglected by learners of Chinese. They are rarely covered in textbooks, and there is a general misconception that Chinese does not have many such expressions. While “manners” as we understand them in English-speaking countries are not typically observed in modern-day China, it would be incorrect to claim that the Chinese do not have expressions they can be used to convey courtesy and consideration when necessary. Indeed, you’ll find that the vast majority in this huge list are commonly used in every day conversation.
Types of polite expressions
Polite expressions in Chinese can be broken down into the following categories:
敬词 jìngcí, “honorifics”: These include expressions that convey respect to those being spoken to, such as 您好 nínhǎo (“hello” [polite]), 请 qǐng (“please”), 谢谢 xièxie (“thank you”), 稍等 shāoděng (“one moment”), etc.
客套话 kètàohuà, “polite formulas”: These include conventional greetings that show respect and concern for the other person, such as 慢走 mànzǒu (“take care”), 打扰 dǎrǎo (“[sorry to] bother [you]”), 辛苦 xīnkǔ (“you’ve worked so hard”), 恭喜 gōngxǐ (“congratulations”), etc.
普通词 pǔtōngcí, “ordinary words”: These include ordinary expressions that can be used to convey polite sentiments, such as随时 suíshí (“at any time”), 高兴 gāoxìng (“pleased”), 来 lái (“come”), 放心 fàngxīn (“rest assured”), etc.
短语 duǎnyǔ, “phrases”: These include everyday expressions that make up a full sentence, such as你吃了吗？nǐ chī le ma? (“have you eaten?”), 不用谢 bù yòng xiè (“you’re welcome”), 没关系 méiguānxi (“no problem”), 慢慢吃 mànmàn chī (“take your time eating”), etc.
Others: There are also some minor sub-categories such as 谦词 qiāncí (self-deprecatory expressions), 婉词 wǎncí (euphemisms) and 敬称 jìngchēng (terms of respect). These could all be blog entries of their own.
It should be noted that these labels are not set in stone. Sometimes it can be difficult to work out which term fits into which category, and how they differ from each other is not always very clear.
The polite expressions in this list I have come up with are more or less in order of everyday frequency, with the first 50 or so being the most common expressions. Expressions towards the end of the list are more common in highly formal or literary contexts.
One more thing: I have not included words for people in society like老师 lǎoshī (“teacher”), 同志 tóngzhì (“comrade”), 先生 xiānsheng (“mister”), 小姐 xiǎojiě (“miss”), 师傅 shīfu (“master”), 朋友 péngyou (“friend”), 哥哥 gēge (“older brother”), 阿姨 āyí (“aunty”), etc., though these are obviously common and important words in Chinese.
Enjoy!
Top 80 Most Common Polite Expressions in Chinese
1. 您好 nínhǎo
Literally: “hello [polite]”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: A polite form of 你好 nǐhǎo, “hello”. Commonly said to teachers, customers, older people, strangers, etc.
Examples:
1) 您好，我能为您做什么？
Hello, what can I do for you?
2) 您好，我是吉米，请问您找谁？
Hello, this is Jimmy. May I ask who you are looking for?
3) 您好，这里有人坐吗？
Hi, is someone sitting here?
2. 请 qǐng
Literally: “please”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Similar to English “please”. Usually goes at the beginning of a sentence, but there are exceptions, e.g. 您先请 nǐ xiān qǐng (“you first, please”).
Examples:
1) 请进，请坐，请喝茶。
Please come in. Please take a seat. Please have some tea.
2) 请您排队好吗？
Please line up, OK?
3)请您注意安全；过路请走人行道。
Please take care, stick to the footpath.
Note: 请 qǐng can also be used as a verb meaning “to treat someone”, e.g. 今天晚上我请你吃饭 jīntiān wǎnshang wǒ qǐng nǐ chīfàn (“let me treat you to dinner tonight”).
3. 谢谢 xièxie
Literally: “thank you”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Similar to English “thank you”.
Examples:
1) 谢谢夸奖。
Thanks for the compliment.
2) 谢谢你的合作。
Thanks for your cooperation.
3) 请原谅，耽误您时间了，谢谢！
Please forgive us for holding you up, thank you!
Synonym: 谢谢你 xièxienǐ; 多谢 duōxiè.
4. 稍等 shāoděng
Literally: “wait a moment”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when requesting someone to wait.
Examples:
1) 请稍等，我帮您看看他在不在。
One moment, I’ll see if he is here.
2) 请稍等，我马上给您办。
One moment, I’ll get that done for you right away.
3) 对不起，这个问题我不太清楚，请稍等一下，我帮您问一下。
Sorry, I’m not too sure about this. Please hold on a second, I’ll ask for you.
Variants: 稍等一下 shāoděng yīxià; 等一下 děngyīxià.
5. 哪位 nǎwèi
Literally: “which person”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when asking the identity of the person being spoken to, i.e. a polite form of 谁 shéi (“who”). It can also be used before a noun to mean “which person”, as in example 2.
Examples:
1) 你是哪位？——我是饶老师的学生，丽娜，我要请教你一个问题。
I’m sorry, who are you? – I’m Lina, a student of Teacher Rao, I’d like to ask your advice on something.
2) 您是张小姐吗？——我就是，请问您是哪一位？
Are you Miss Zhang? – I am she. May I ask to whom I am speaking?
3) 请问您和哪位医生有预约？
Could you please tell me which doctor you have an appointment with?
Variants: 哪一位 nǎyīwèi.
6. 随时 suíshí
Literally: “at any time”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used as an adverb to convey that the other person can communicate and interact with one at their convenience; translated into English as “at any time”, “feel free”, “please do not hesitate [to do sth]”, etc.
Examples:
1) 如果您有任何问题，欢迎随时和我们联系。
If you have any questions, feel free to get in contact with us any time.
2) 有什么事随时找我。
If anything comes up, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
3) 我们可以随时为您提供上门服务的。
We can provide you with professional home delivery service at your convenience.
7. 高兴 gāoxìng
Literally: “pleased”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used to express one’s pleasure when interacting with others.
Examples:
1) 认识你很高兴。
Pleased to meet you.
2) 我们很高兴为您服务。
We are happy to serve you.
3) 非常高兴收到您的邮件。
I was very pleased to receive your email.
8. 来 lái
Literally: “come”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used to attract the attention of the other person. It should be noted that in Chinese culture directly saying “come” to someone is not considered rude but polite and considerate of others.
Examples:
1) 来来来，吃饭。
Come, eat.
2) 来，我给您包扎一下。
Come, I’ll wrap that up for you.
3) 来，多吃点饭。
Come, have some more rice.
9. 放心 fàngxīn
Literally: “to put one’s heart down”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used to reassure others.
Examples:
1) 请您放心，我们一定帮您解决，办好后我们通知您。
Rest assured, we will help you solve this problem and we’ll let you know once it’s done.
2) 请放心，您父亲的病情并不严重。
Don’t worry, your father’s condition is not serious.
3) 你放心吧，这件事已经解决了。
Don’t worry, this matter has already been settled.
10. 谅解 liàngjiě
Literally: 谅, “to forgive” + 解, “to understand”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used when seeking forgiveness and understanding from others.
Examples:
1) 刚才的误会，请您能谅解。
Please forgive me for the misunderstanding before.
2) 这个问题没有被妥善解决，我们希望得到您的谅解。
This problem was not resolved properly; we hope you can forgive us.
3) 因为我们的失误给您带来了不必要的麻烦，不好意思，请谅解。
We apologise for the unnecessary hassle our error caused, and ask for your understanding.
Note: 谅解 liàngjiě differs from its near-synonym 原谅 yuánliàng which implies forgiveness only and not understanding. See also 体谅 tǐliàng, “to make allowances for; to empathise”.
11. 你吃了吗？nǐ chī le ma?
Literally: “have you eaten?”
Type of expression: 短语 (phrase).
Usage: “Have you eaten?” – one of the most common greetings in Chinese-speaking communities. You can respond by saying 我吃过 wǒ chī guò (“I’ve eaten”) or 还没有hái méiyǒu (“not yet”). It is the classic example of 寒暄 hánxuān (“exchanging pleasantries”) in Chinese.
Examples:
1) 你吃了吗？——还没有呢。——你来我家吧，一起吃饭，好吗？
Have you eaten? – Not yet. – Come to my place then, let’s eat together, OK?
2) 老周，这么早，刚送儿子上学吧？吃了吗？
Old Zhou, it’s so early. Did you just drop your son off at school? Have you eaten?
3) 陈总，您好您好！吃了吗？正好今晚我有个饭局，一起去吧？
Chief Chen, hello! Have you eaten? As it happens, I’m going to a dinner party tonight, would you like to go with me?
Variants: 你吃饭了吗？nǐ chīfàn le ma?; 你吃了没有？nǐ chī le méiyǒu?
12. 请问 qǐngwèn
Literally: “please [can I] ask [?]”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when asking someone a question.
Examples:
1) 请问，您贵姓？
May I know your last name?
2) 请问，去人民广场怎么走？
Excuse me, how do I get to the People’s Square?
3) 请问，我的包裹什么时候才能收到？
Excuse me, when can I expect to receive my parcel?
Variants: 请问一下 qǐng wèn yīxià; 我想问一下 wǒ xiǎng wèn yīxià; 敢问 gǎnwèn.
13. 不用谢 bù yòng xiè
Literally: “no need to thank [me]”.
Type of expression: 短语 (phrase).
Usage: Used as a polite response to thanks, functioning much the same as English “you’re welcome”.
Examples:
1) 你真的太客气了，不用谢！
You’re much too polite. No need to thank me!
2) 不用谢！其实我也没帮助到你多少。
No need to thank me! I wasn’t actually that much of a help.
3) 不用谢，照顾不周的地方请您多多包涵。
You’re much too polite. Please forgive me if there is anything I didn’t take care of too well.
Snonyms: 不客气 bùkèqi; 别客气 biékèqi; 不谢 bùxiè; 不会 bùhuì.
14. 没关系 méiguānxi
Literally: “no relationship”.
Type of expression: 短语 (phrase).
Usage: Used either as an acceptance to someone’s apology (see example 1), or to dispel someone’s offer of help or misgivings about something (see examples 2 and 3).
Examples:
1) 没关系，你真的不用道歉，我没往心里去。
No problem, there’s really no need to apologise, I didn’t take it to heart.
2) 奶奶，您坐这吧。——没关系的，我下一站就到了。
Please madam, take a seat. – That’s quite all right, I’m getting off at the next stop.
3) 忘了拿钥匙没关系，我帮你开门。
It’s all right if you forgot the key; I will open the door for you.
Synonyms: 不要紧 bùyàojǐn; 没事儿 méishìr.
Note: 没关系 can also be used literally, as in 这件事明明就和我没关系，为什么你要质问我？ (“this matter obviously has nothing to do with me, why do you have to question me?”).
15. 慢走 mànzǒu
Literally: “walk/leave slowly”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used when saying goodbye to guests leaving from one’s home or establishment to wish them a safe departure.
Examples:
1) 慢走，下次再来啊。
Take care, and come again.
2) 感谢您今天来参加我们的酒会。您慢走，路上小心！
Thanks for coming to our party today. Goodbye, and take care on the road!
3) 外面下雨了路滑，请慢走注意安全。
It’s raining outside and the road is slippery, please take care.
Synonym: 慢点 màndiǎn; 走好 zǒuhǎo.
16. 慢慢吃 mànmàn chī
Literally: “eat slowly”.
Type of expression: 短语 (phrase).
Usage: Used either as a salutation to someone about to eat (equivalent to English “bon appétit!”) or, as by a host to guests, to announce a sudden departure and encourage them to continue eating.
Examples:
1) 菜都上了，大家慢慢吃！
All the dishes have arrived; bon appétit everyone!
2) 今天能邀请到各位大驾光临，实在是我的荣幸，来，大家慢慢吃。
It is such an honour to be in the presence of everyone today; come, let’s eat.
3) 各位，抱歉，我那边有点事，需要先走一步了。大家慢慢吃。
I’m sorry everyone, something has come up and I have to leave for a moment. Please take your time with your meals.
Synonym: 请慢用 qǐng mànyòng (especially said by restaurant staff).
Note: Can also be used literally, e.g. 不急你慢慢吃，离出发的时间还早着呢。 (“No rush, take your time, we still have a while to go until we set off”).
17. 多吃点 duō chī diǎn
Literally: “eat some more.”
Type of expression: 短语 (phrase).
Usage: A common way that Chinese show their concern for their friends and family. Used when having sharing a meal with someone.
Examples:
1) 你难得回来一次，不要客气多吃点儿。
We hardly ever get to see you. Don’t be so polite, have a bit more to eat.
2) 如果你真觉的我做的菜好吃，那就多吃点呗！
If you really think my cooking is any good, you should have a bit more!
3) 你现在正是长身体的时候，多吃点。
You’re going through a growth spurt, you should have a bit more to eat.
18. 麻烦 máfan
Literally: “to put [sb] to trouble; to bother [sb]”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used when seeking assistance from someone. The example sentences below demonstrate the number of different situations it can be used in.
Examples:
1) 麻烦你让我一下，我要过去谢谢。
Excuse me, please, I need to get through.
2) 太好了，那这件事就麻烦您了！谢谢！
Excellent. So I’ll just leave that matter with you then. Thanks!
3) 这么小的事情我不想麻烦她，我可以自己解决。
I don’t want to trouble her with such a small thing, I can work it out myself.
Note: 麻烦 can also be used as an adjective meaning, “troublesome; involving a hassle” as in 这件事很麻烦 (“this is such a hassle”), as well as as a noun with the verb 添 tiān, “add”, e.g. 不好意思，给您添麻烦了 (“sorry for putting you to so much trouble”).
19. 请教 qǐngjiào
Literally: “please teach”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when seeking guidance or instruction from others.
Examples:
1) 可以请教您一个问题吗？
May I ask you something?
2) 请教一下，这个词怎么念？
May I ask, how is this word pronounced?
3) 我建议你应该向专业人士请教这个问题。
I recommend you ask a professional about this problem.
20. 打扰 dǎrǎo
Literally: “to disturb; to bother; to interrupt; to trouble”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used when bothering someone with a question or request.
Examples:
1) 对不起，打扰一下，请问去邮局怎么走？
Sorry to bother you, but could you tell me how to get to the post office?
2) 很抱歉打扰你午休的时间了。
Sorry for bothering you during your noon break.
3) 谢谢你这段时间对我的照顾，打扰了！
Thanks for looking after me, I hope I wasn’t too much of a bother.
Synonym: 打搅 dǎjiǎo.
21. 借过 jièguò
Literally: “to borrow a pass [through a space]”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used to ask someone to move so that one may pass.
Examples:
1) 不好意思借过一下麻烦你不要挡路。
Excuse me, please let me through, don’t block the way.
2) 您好，借过一下，我下一站下车。
Hi, please excuse me, I’m getting off at the next station.
3) 请帮我开门，借过一下，谢谢。
Please open the door for me. Excuse me. Thanks.
Synonyms: 让一让 ràngyiràng; 让一下 ràng yīxià; 借光 jièguāng.
22. 欢迎 huānyíng
Literally: “to welcome”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Similar to English “welcome”, but with one key difference: in Chinese it is customary to say something like 欢迎来北京 huānyíng lái Běijīng, literally, “Welcome to Beijing”, even if the person being spoken to is not actually in Beijing. By contrast, in English “welcome” is usually only used if both the speaker and the person being spoken to are both in the same location, for instance, if the person being welcomed has just arrived at the airport.
Examples:
1) 接下来，让我们欢迎著名钢琴演奏家郎朗为我们带来表演！
Next, let’s welcome the renowned pianist Lang Lang to the stage!
2) 欢迎批评指正。
Your comments are appreciated.
3) 希望不久的将来还能在这里欢迎您。
I hope in the not too distant future I can welcome you here again.
Note: 欢迎 huānyíng can also collocate with 受 shòu, making 受欢迎 shòuhuānyíng, an adjective meaning “well-received; popular”. Note also the expression 欢迎光临 huānyíng guānglín which is used when welcoming customers to a shop, and 欢迎再次光临 huānyíng zàicì guānglín, “hope to see you again [at our shop]”.
23. 拜托 bàituō
Literally: “to honourably entrust”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when asking someone a favour.
Examples:
1) 我想你可以去拜托陈经理，他应该可以帮得上忙。
I think you can go ask Manager Chen, he should be able to help.
2) 这件事就拜托您了。
I’ll leave this matter to you then.
3) 孩子学习的事就拜托您了。
I’ll leave the children’s studies to you then.
Note: 拜托 can also be used as a sarcastic interjection, being more or less equivalent to English, “puh-lease!” or “come on!”, e.g. 拜托！我又不是你的仆人，凭什么对我呼来喝去？(“Puh-lease! I’m not your servant, what makes you think you can order me around?”).
24. 抱歉 bàoqiàn
Literally: “to be sorry”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: More or less the same as English “sorry”.
Examples:
1) 实在抱歉，让您久等了。
So sorry to keep you waiting.
2) 抱歉，您找的人不在，有什么事需要转告吗？
Sorry, the person you are looking for is not here. Would you like to leave a message?
3) 抱歉，让您多跑了一趟。
Sorry to make you run around again.
Synonyms: 对不起 duìbuqǐ and 不好意思 bù hǎoyìsi. Strictly speaking, 抱歉 and 对不起 are stronger in tone than 不好意思, but in real life different people use them in different ways. There is also the near-synonym 过意不去 guòyìbùqù, “to feel very sorry”.
Note: 抱歉 should not be confused with 道歉 dàoqiàn which can only be used as a verb, “to apologize; to say sorry”, and not an interjection, e.g. 您的意见很对，是我们搞错了，向您道歉 (“what you said is right, we were in the wrong, please accept our apologies”).
25. 祝 zhù
Literally: “to wish [someone happiness, success, etc.]”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: More or less the same as English “wish [someone something]”.
Examples:
1) 祝你生日快乐！祝你快乐健康幸福！
Happy birthday! Wish you happiness, health and good fortune!
2) 祝您一路顺风！
Bon voyage!
3) 祝你好运！
Good luck!
26. 过奖 guòjiǎng
Literally: “to excessively praise”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used to deflect a compliment, in the traditional Chinese custom of maintaining modesty about one’s achievements.
Examples:
1) 您认为我的汉语说的这么好，真是过奖了，我还有很大的进步空间。
You think my Chinese is good, but you’ve overestimated me, I still have much room for improvement.
2) 朋友们过奖了，你们的鼓励是个动力，我会继续努力的。
Friends, you have overpraised me; your encouragements will motivate me to work even harder.
3) 对于我来说过奖了，事实上许多东西我都是从你身上学到的。
The way I see it, I am not worthy of this praise; in reality, much of what I have learnt came from you.
Synonyms: 过誉 guòyù; 谬奖 miùjiǎng; 哪里哪里 nǎli nǎli; 不敢当 bùgǎndāng; 岂敢岂敢 qǐgǎn qǐgǎn; 好说 hǎoshuō.
27 .见外 jiànwài
Literally: 见, “to look” + 外, “outside”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used in response to a friend’s politeness, which in modern Chinese culture is ironically perceived as distancing, with the assumption that good friends do not need to stand on ceremony around each other.
Examples:
1) 随便吃，别见外。
Eat as much as you want, don’t stand on ceremony.
2) 你这么说就见外了。
What you said was much too polite.
3) 你住在这里，就当这里是自己家，别见外。
While you’re staying here, make yourself at home, don’t be a stranger.
28. 应该的 yīnggāi de
Literally: “[this is something that I] should [do]”.
Type of expression: 短语 (phrase).
Usage: Used in response to someone’s expression of gratitude, to reaffirm one’s social obligations as a friend, teacher, etc.
Examples:
1) 不必客气，应该的。
There’s no need to be so polite; this is something that I should have done.
2) 我也没帮上什么忙，分内之事，应该的。
I wasn’t that much help; I did what I was supposed to do.
3) 我是老师，你是我的学生，这是我应该做的事情。
I’m a teacher, you’re my student, this is my duty.
Variant: 这是我应该做的 zhè shì wǒ yīnggāi zuò de.
29. 感谢 gǎnxiè
Literally: 感, “to feel” + 谢, “thanks”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used to show appreciation for assistance provided by others. When placed at the beginning of a sentence, a subject such as 我, 我们, etc. is not needed. It can also be used as an adjective (“appreciative; grateful”) and a noun (“thanks”) as in the examples below.
Examples:
1) 感谢领导在百忙之中抽出时间参加这次活动。
Thank you to the leaders for taking the time out of their busy schedules to join us in this activity.
2) 福利院的小朋友们非常感谢社会上的好心人士对他们的关爱。
The kids in the welfare agency really appreciate the concern shown by the kind people in the community.
3) 她对我送的礼物表示感谢。
She expressed thanks for the gift I gave her.
Synonym: 感激 gǎnjī, “to appreciate”, stronger in tone than 感谢 gǎnxiè.
30. 辛苦 xīnkǔ
Literally: 辛, “labour” + 苦, “bitterness”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula) when used with 了 le to indicate completion of the action; otherwise, 普通词 (ordinary word).
Usage: Used to acknowledge the hard work of others (example 1 and 2); can also be used to request someone to complete a difficult task (example 3).
Examples:
1) 老师您辛苦了。
Teacher, you worked so hard.
2) 今天忙了一天，大家都辛苦了。赶紧回家休息吧！
It’s been a busy day, everyone has worked so hard. Hurry back home and have a good rest!
3) 那么，和外商谈判这件事，就要辛苦你了。
We’ll be looking to you then to negotiate the matter with the foreign business people.
Note: 辛苦 can also be used as verb meaning, “to work hard”, e.g. 辛苦一天之后，的确需要消遣 (“you definitely need to take some time off after a hard day’s work”), or an adjective meaning, “laborious; tiring”, e.g. 这种工作很辛苦 (“this kind of work is very tiring”).
31. 恭喜 gōngxǐ
Literally: 恭, “respectful” + 喜, “happiness”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used when congratulating someone. The reply 同喜 tóngxǐ can be used to congratulate the other person in return.
Examples:
1) 恭喜！恭喜！郎才女貌，天作之合啊！
Congrats! Congrats! A perfect match, a match made in heaven!
2) 恭喜李晓霞收到了哥伦比亚大学的录取通知书。
Congratulations to Li Xiaoxia who received an admission notice from Columbia University.
3) 恭喜发财！
Wish you a prosperous New Year!
Synonyms: 祝贺 zhùhè and 庆贺 qìnghè – both more commonly used as verbs (“to congratulate”) than polite formulas or interjections.
32. 小意思 xiǎoyìsi
Literally: 小, “small” + 意思, “meaning, i.e. token”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used either when presenting someone with a gift, similar to English “small token of appreciation”, or when emphasising that a favour is a piece of cake.
Examples:
1) 这是一点小意思，不成敬意，请您收下。
Please accept this small token of appreciation.
2) 为了体现我们对您的敬意，这点小意思还请笑纳。
As a symbol of our respect, please accept this small token of appreciation.
3) 帮这点儿忙，小意思，不劳感谢。
No need to thank me, this favour is a piece of cake.
33. 久仰大名 jiǔyǎng dàmíng
Literally: “[I] have been looking forward to meeting such an esteemed name for a long time”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used when meeting someone for the first time.
Examples:
1) 王先生，久仰大名，现在我终于有机会见到您了。
Mr Wang, your reputation precedes you, and now I finally have an opportunity to meet with you.
2) 幸会幸会，久仰大名！
It is an honour to meet you at last.
3) 久仰大名，今日一见果真名不虚传。
I have been looking forward to meeting you for such a long time, and today I can see that your reputation is well-deserved.
Synonyms: 久仰久仰 jiǔyǎng jiǔyǎng; 久仰 jiǔyǎng; 久闻大名 jiǔwén dàmíng.
34. 荣幸 róngxìng
Literally: 荣, “glory; honour” + 幸, “fortune”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used as an adjective to express a sense of honour, usually in taking part in a particular activity.
Examples:
1) 非常荣幸能够作为证婚人参加新人们的婚礼。
It is a great honour to be a witness at this wedding.
2) 我很荣幸代表我的祖国参加这次世界大赛。
I am very honoured to represent my mother country at this global contest.
3) 能邀请到像您这样的重量级嘉宾是我的荣幸。
It is my honour to receive such important guests as yourselves.
35. 久违 jiǔwéi
Literally: “[I] have been away [from you] a long time”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used to greet someone you have not seen for a long time. Typically followed by 了 le to indicate the completion of the verb.
Examples:
1) 赵师兄，久违了。
Brother Zhao, it’s been a while.
2) 久违了，这些年你上哪儿去了？
Long time no see; where have you been the past few years?
3) 久违了，一向可好？
It’s been a while; is everything all right?
Synonym: 好久不见 hǎojiǔbujiàn (much more casual in tone).
36. 失陪 shīpéi
Literally: 失, “to lose” + 陪, “to accompany”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used to state that one cannot continue to keep the other person company, that one must take one’s leave.
Examples:
1) 失陪一下，我接个电话。
I gotta run, the phone’s ringing.
2) 对不起，我得去开会，失陪了。
Sorry, I have to attend a meeting, see you later.
3) 不好意思，临时有急事，失陪了。
Sorry, something urgent has come up, bye for now.
37. 留步 liúbù
Literally: 留, “stay [in a location]” + 步, “step”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Said by departing guests to indicate that the host need not see them out.
Examples:
1) 老陈请留步，送到这里就好，改日再聚！
Old Chen, there is no need to see me out. Let’s catch up another time!
2) 小弟告辞了，兄台请留步，不必相送。
Younger brother shall take his leave now; older brother, there is no need to see me out.
3) 今天老师辛苦了，您在家里好好休息吧，请老师留步！
Teacher worked so hard today. Stay at home and have a good rest, there’s no need to see me out!
Synonyms: 不用送我 bù yòng sòng wǒ (much more casual in tone); 不送 bù sòng.
Note: 留步 liúbù is also used literally, to ask someone to not move – i.e. to stay where they are.
38. 包涵 bāohan
Literally: 包, “to hold; to include” + 涵, “to show tolerance”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used with the hope that others will make allowances for a minor inconvenience caused. Often used in the phrase 请多多包涵 qǐng duōduō bāohan.
Examples:
1) 孩子不懂事，总给老师添麻烦；请您多多包涵。
The kid misbehaved and caused trouble for the teacher, I’m so sorry for this.
2) 招待不周，请诸位多多包涵！
Please bear with us if our reception is in any way unsatisfactory.
3) 若有错误，还请您多多包涵。
Please forgive us should there be any errors.
39. 指教 zhǐjiào
Literally: 指, “to indicate; to instruct; to direct” + 教, “to teach; to guide”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used when seeking advice, comments, guidance or feedback from others. Like 包含, it is often preceded by 请多多… qǐng duōduō…
Examples:
1) 老师，请多多指教。
Teacher, could you please give me some advice?
2) 大家好，我是刚刚入职的新人，今后还请大家多多指教！
Hi everyone, I’ve just started work here, and am looking forward to your guidance and advice.
3) 这篇文章我写得不好，请大家不吝指教。
I didn’t do a good job on this article, I hope you all can give me some feedback on it.
40. 笑纳 xiàonà
Literally: “to accept with a smile”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used when presenting a gift to someone.
Examples:
1) 这点儿薄礼请先生笑纳。
Please, sir, accept this humble gift.
2) 一点礼物不成敬意，还请您笑纳。
Please accept this small token of my appreciation.
3) 这份礼物，聊表千里鹅毛之忱，敬请笑纳。
Please accept this gift, a small token sent from afar but with deep affection and sincerity.
41. 受累 shòulèi
Literally: “to receive tiredness”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used to acknowledge the trouble one has put someone to.
Examples:
1) 不好意思，我让你受累了。
Sorry for putting you to so much trouble.
2) 妈妈，感谢您这二十多年来把我养大，你受累了。
Mum, thanks for bringing me up over the past twenty years, it mustn’t have been easy.
3) 叫您受累了，真不过意。
I’m terribly sorry to have given you such a lot of trouble.
Note: 受累, when pronounced shòulěi, means “to get dragged into; to get involved in”.
42. 贵校 guìxiào
Literally: “esteemed school”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used to show respect towards the school with which the person being spoken to is associated with. Commonly used in letters, speeches and other formal occasions.
Examples:
1) 请问贵校今年招生总数是多少？
May I ask how many students the school is accepting this year?
2) 请贵校接收李宁同学的入学申请。
We hope that your school can accept Li Ning’s application for enrolment.
3) 我衷心地祝愿贵校为经济社会发展培养更多的人才。
It is my sincere wish that your school can produce more talented people for the development of our economy and society.
Note: See also 贵公司 guìgōngsī, “your [esteemed] company”.
43. 吉言 jíyán
Literally: “lucky words”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used to express thanks for the words of support given by others. Before the event that requires good luck, 吉言 is used with the verb 借 jiè (“to borrow [your words of luck]”); after the event, it is used with the verb 托 tuō (“thanks to [your words of luck]”).
Examples:
1) 借您吉言，这事能成。
With your words of luck, this matter can be settled.
2) 祝你明天考试顺利！——谢谢，借你吉言。
Good luck on tomorrow’s exam! – Thank you. I’ll take your words as my luck.
3) 你今天考试考得如何？——托你吉言，考得很顺利。
How did you go on today’s test? – Thanks to your words of luck, it went well.
Variants: 托你的福 tuō nǐ de fú; 借你的福 jiè nǐ de fú; 承你吉言 chéng nǐ jíyán; 承你的福 chéng nǐ de fú.
44. 问候 wènhòu
Literally: “sending of regards, or best wishes”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used to show concern for someone’s welfare.
Examples:
1) 请代我问候陈老师。
Please pass my regards on to Teacher Chen.
2) 谢谢你的问候。
Thanks for your concern.
3) 老杨最近很忙吧，请转达我对他的问候。
Old Yang has been busy of late. Please pass on my regards to him.
Synonyms: 慰问 wèiwèn; 问好 wènhǎo.
45. 劳驾 láojià
Literally: 劳, “to cause trouble for someone” + 驾, “you [as an honorific]”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used when asking a request of someone, or when asking someone to move so that one may pass.
Examples:
1) 劳驾您，帮我打开门。
Excuse me, could you please open the door for me?
2) 劳驾给我带个口信儿。
Please pass on a message for me.
3) 劳驾，让我过去！
Excuse me, coming through!
Synonyms: 有劳大驾 yǒuláo dàjià or just有劳yǒuláo; 烦劳 fánláo.
Note: See also its near-synonym 麻烦 máfan.
46. 关照 guānzhào
Literally: “to take care of [somebody]”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used to urge people to provide support for a newcomer in a school, company, etc.
Examples:
1) 他是新来的员工，同事们都关照他。
He’s a new employee, so everyone give him some support.
2) 初次见面请多关照。
As it’s our first time meeting, I hope you can lend me your support.
3) 他是新来的转校生，希望大家多多关照他。
He’s a new student transferred from another school, so I hope everyone can look after him.
Note: 关照 is also used as a verb meaning “to verbally notify; to remind; to let someone know something”, e.g. 你走的时候请关照一声 (“please let me know when you leave”).
47. 贵姓 guìxìng
Literally: “[your] esteemed family name”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when asking someone’s family name.
Examples:
1) 请问您贵姓？——免贵姓高。
May I ask, what is your surname? – No need to be so formal. My surname is Gao.
2) 您似乎知道我的名字，可是您贵姓？我不知道您的尊姓大名。
You seem to know my name, but how about you? I do not know your honourable name.
3) 对不起，老板先生，您贵姓？
Sorry, boss, but what’s your family name?
48. 拜访 bàifǎng
Literally: 拜, “to pay respect” + 访, “to visit”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used as an honorific verb for “visit”.
Examples:
1) 她出了名，来自世界各地的人纷纷登门拜访她。
She became so famous that people from all over the world came to visit her.
2) 习近平主席下周将飞抵华府采访奥巴马总统。
Next week Chairman Xi Jinping will fly to Washington, D.C. to visit President Obama.
3) 刘备带着关羽张飞三次拜访诸葛亮，这就是“三顾茅庐”典故的由来。
Liu Bei, accompanied by Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, paid three visits to Zhuge Liang – this is the origin of the classical allusion “three visits to the thatched cottage”.
49. 费心 fèixīn
Literally: 费 “to use up; to exhuast” + 心, “heart”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used to acknowledge the significant amount of effort required to complete a particular task.
Examples:
1) 不好意思，让您费心了。
Sorry for putting you to so much trouble.
2) 我们之间的合作项目一直由李先生负责，您无需费心。
Mr Li has always been in charge of our collaborative project; there’s no need for you to trouble yourself with this.
3) 这孩子天生好动不服管教，请您费心调教。
This kid is restless and disobedient by nature, please do all you can to discipline him.
50. 恩师 ēnshī
Literally: “honourable teacher”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used as a respectful term for “teacher”.
Examples:
1) 牢记恩师教诲。
We should never forget all the things our honourable teachers have taught us.
2) 我能有今天的成就，离不开恩师的谆谆教诲。
My success today is due in no small part to the tireless guidance of my teacher.
3) 这位是教导我多年的恩师——林老师。
This is my mentor, Teacher Lin, who has taught me for many years.
51. 贵庚 guìgēng
Literally: “[your] valuable seventh of the Heavenly Stems – i.e. age”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when asking someone’s age, especially that of an older person.
Examples:
1) 敢问您今年贵庚？
May I ask how old you are this year?
2) 请问您母亲贵庚？
May I ask how old your mother is?
3) 杨老先生今年贵庚呢？
How old is Mr Yang this year?
Synonym: 高寿 gāoshòu.
Note: When asking young people their age, it is more common to use the expression 几岁 jǐsuì or 多大 duōdà. Strictly speaking, 几岁 should only be used for very young children, but in reality usage varies according to personal preference.
52. 赐教 cìjiào
Literally: “to favour [enlighten] with instruction”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when looking forward to the guidance of others. Often collocates with the verb 不吝 bùlìn (“to not stint [when instructing, advising, etc.]”).
Examples:
1) 我在这方面有很多不明白的地方，还请您不吝赐教。
There are many things I don’t understand about this; any advice you can provide would be most welcome.
2) 可否请您赐教这道菜的做法？
Could you enlighten me as to how this dish is prepared?
3) 亲爱的见多识广的读者，请您赐教！
Dear enlightened readers, I look forward to your guidance!
53. 高见 gāojiàn
Literally: “[your] wise view [on something]”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when asking someone’s opinion about something, or humbly providing one’s own point of view.
Examples:
1) 对于这个问题，您有何高见？
What view do you have on this issue?
2) 有何高见，请大家提出来。
Could everyone please make their views known?
3) 可算不上什么高见，我就简单说说我的看法吧。
Let me put forth my insight, as limited as it is.
54. 赏光 shǎngguāng
Literally: 赏, “to grant; to bestow” + 光, “presence of a guest”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used to express one’s honour at the presence of a guest.
Examples:
1) 今晚我做东，请您赏光。
I will be hosting tonight; I hope you can honour me with your presence.
2) 大家举起酒杯，感谢局长今日赏光，干一杯吧！
Let us all raise our glasses in a toast to thank the Director for joining us today. Bottoms up!
3) 可否赏光与我跳一支舞？
Would you do me the honour of dancing with me?
55. 失迎 shīyíng
Literally: “to fail to receive [a guest]”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used when apologising for not being able to meet someone in person.
Examples:
1) 今天老板突然打来电话，让我加班；未能去机场接你，失迎失迎。
My boss called me today out of the blue and asked me to work overtime, so I won’t be able to pick you up at the airport, I’m sorry.
2) 不知您大驾光临，失迎了。
I was not aware of your arrival and thus was not able to receive you in person.
3) 刚才突发事件，才不得已对您失迎了，实在抱歉！
Something came up suddenly, and was unable to receive you, my sincere apologies!
56. 告辞 gàocí
Literally: 告, “to respectfully report” + 辞, “to take leave”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used as an interjection when saying goodbye to someone and taking one’s leave. Can also be used as a verb to literally describe one taking one’s leave (see example 3).
Examples:
1) 今天与你聊天很开心，时间不早了，我得告辞了，回见。
It was great chatting with you today, but it’s getting late and I have to go now, see you next time.
2) 多谢今日的邀请，那么我就告辞了。
Thanks for inviting me today; I’ll be taking my leave now.
3) 我怕耽误他的时间，商谈了一会儿便告辞了。
I was afraid of wasting his time and so after our chat I promptly took my leave.
57. 奉陪 fèngpéi
Literally: 奉, “to respectfully attend to” + 陪, “to accompany”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used as an honorific for the verb “accompany; keep someone company”.
Examples:
1) 放假到我这来玩，我奉陪。
Come find me during the holidays and I’ll keep you company.
2) 您要去，我当然可以奉陪。
If you want to go, of course I can keep you company.
3) 我对此并无兴趣，请恕不奉陪。
I have no interest in this; please forgive me for being unable to keep you company.
Note: Also used in the expression 奉陪到底 fèngpéi dàodǐ (“to accompany sb to the end”), sometimes with a humorous tone, e.g. 竟然敢小看我的酒量，那今晚我就奉陪到底！(“you think I can’t hold my liquor? I’ll drink you under the table tonight!”).
58. 惠顾 huìgù
Literally: “benevolent visit”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used by business operators to show respect to visiting customers.
Examples:
1) 为了回馈消费者的惠顾，我们将举行有奖竞猜活动。
To reward our customers for their patronage, we will be running a quiz and giveaway.
2) 小店刚刚开业，欢迎大家前来惠顾。
Our little shop has just started business; everyone is welcome to come visit.
3) 欢迎提出宝贵意见，以后请经常惠顾，谢谢。
Your valuable feedback is most welcome. We hope to see you again soon. Thank you.
59. 失敬 shījìng
Literally: 失, “to lose; to violate” + 敬, “courtesy and politeness”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used when apologising for a minor slip in courtesy, for example, for failing to recognise a great person or making a social faux pas.
Examples:
1) 哎呀，都怪我有眼不识泰山，原来您就是那位神医，失敬失敬！
Oh no, I have failed to recognise a great person. You are none other than that miracle-working doctor. My apologies!
2) 刚才的话，实在是失敬失敬。
I’m sorry for the disrespectful words I just said.
3) 未能远迎，失敬，失敬！
I am unable to go so far to meet you, my apologies!
60. 恭候 gōnghòu
Literally: “to respectfully await”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used when communicating that one has awaited someone’s arrival in a respectful fashion.
Examples:
1) 上司委派我一个人在这里恭候客户。
My superior asked me to wait here for the clients respectfully.
2) 我在家门外恭候老师的到来。
From the front door of my home I respectfully awaited the arrival of my teacher.
3) 欢迎先生光临，我在这里已恭候多时了。
Welcome, sir. I have been waiting here for you respectfully for many hours.
61. 有请 yǒuqǐng
Literally: 有, “to have” + 请, “to ask; to request”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used when asking a guest to appear in front of an audience, usually to make a speech or perform.
Examples:
1) 下面有请王林先生，给大家讲话。
Next welcome Mr Wang Lin to say a few words.
2) 下面有请李彩上台表演。
Next welcome Li Cai to the stage.
3) 现在有请尊敬的朱校长为我们的文化节致开幕词。
Now let’s welcome Principal Zhu who will make an opening speech for our cultural festival.
Note: See also its near-synonym 敬请 jìngqǐng, “to respectfully invite”.
62. 拙见 zhuōjiàn
Literally: “inelegant understanding”.
Type of expression: 谦词 (self-deprecatory expression).
Usage: Used when presenting one’s point of view.
Examples:
1) 这是我的拙见，一定还有美中不足的地方，还望多多指教。
This is my understanding, which may not be entirely accurate. I look forward to receiving your feedback.
2) 依本人拙见，我们不该投资这个项目。
In my humble opinion, we should not invest in this project.
3) 对于教育体系的改革，我想提出自己的拙见。
I would like to put forth my limited insight regarding education system reform.
63. 拜读 bàidú
Literally: “to respectfully read”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (“honorific).
Usage: Used as a polite form of “read”, especially of someone’s correspondence, a literary work, article, etc.
Examples:
1) 我拜读过傅先生刚刚发表的一篇文章。
I have read the article that Mr Fu just published.
2) 我拜读过许多名家的作品。
I have read the works of many famous figures.
3) 您的新书我已拜读。
I have already read your new book.
64. 斧正 fǔzhèng
Literally: 斧, “hatchet; axe” + 正, “to correct”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (“honorific).
Usage: Used when requesting corrections on one’s piece of writing.
Examples:
1) 还请老师斧正我写的报告。
Teacher, please correct the report I wrote.
2) 学生才疏学浅，有不妥之处，敬请斧正。
I am a student of humble talent and shallow learning, please kindly provide corrections where necessary.
3) 由于本人水平有限，对于可能存在的问题，请各位斧正。
Due to my limited level of proficiency in this area, I kindly request you correct any errors you may find.
65. 墨宝 mòbǎo
Literally: 墨, “ink” + 宝, “treasure”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used to compliment someone on the beauty of their calligraphy or painting.
Examples:
1) 此墨宝出自明代唐寅之手。
This exquisite piece is by Tang Yin of the Ming dynasty.
2) 这次展览展出的墨宝令我流连忘返。
I enjoyed this beautiful piece in the exhibition so much that I almost forgot to go home.
3) 您的书法真好，敬求您的墨宝。
Your calligraphy is fantastic, I hope I can have a piece to take home.
66. 拙笔 zhuōbǐ
Literally: “inelegant writing”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used to refer to one’s writing or artistic creation in a humble fashion.
Examples:
1) 如果大家不嫌弃我的拙笔，可以看看我出的新书。
If you don’t mind the quality of my writing, you can check out my newly published book.
2) 给大家分享我的两幅书法拙笔。
I’d like to share with everyone two of my graceless pieces of calligraphy.
3) 您的书法真妙！——过奖了，拙笔而已。
Your calligraphy is exquisite! – You are much too kind; it is clumsy at best.
67. 屈驾 qūjià
Literally: 屈, as in 委屈, “to cause sb to feel wronged” + 驾, “you [as an honorific]”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used to when inviting someone to visit or go somewhere.
Examples:
1) 您若能屈驾光临寒舍，我感到蓬荜生辉。
Your presence would brighten up my humble abode.
2) 这趟差事还得您屈驾前去解决。
In this assignment we will have to rely on you to go and settle the issue.
3) 劳您屈驾而来，失礼失礼。
I am sorry for inconveniencing you by asking you to come here.
68. 怠慢 dàimàn
Literally: “to neglect [a guest]; to slight”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used to apologise for failing to provide what is perceived as a satisfactory reception, or literally, “to neglect [a guest]”.
Examples:
1) 我只有粗茶淡饭招待你，真实怠慢了你。
I’m sorry that I was only able to serve you a simple meal.
2) 怠慢之处，请多包涵。
I’m sorry we didn’t provide you a very good reception.
3) 快点上酒菜，怎么能怠慢了唐老师。
Hurry up and serve the food and wine, don’t keep Mr Tang waiting.
69. 心领 xīnlǐng
Literally: 心, “the heart [i.e. the mind]” + 领, “to understand”.
Type of expression: 客套话 (polite formula).
Usage: Used when the other person is presenting a gift, offer of help, expression of friendship or concern and one wants to express understanding but non-acceptance of it.
Examples:
1) 您的心意我心领了，请把礼物收回去。
I appreciate your kind offer but I cannot accept it, please take the gift back.
2) 你的关心我心领了，但我们已经分手，不要再联系我了。
I appreciate your concern, but we’re not together anymore, please don’t contact me again.
3) 你的好意我心领了，我还是不麻烦你了。
Thanks for offering, but it’s best I not trouble you with this.
Note: See also the idiom 心领神会 xīnlǐngshénhuì, “to understand tacitly”.
70. 献丑 xiànchǒu
Literally: 献, “to offer; to present” + 丑, “ugly”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific) and 谦词 (self-deprecatory expression).
Usage: Used when presenting one’s artistic creation or performance, to convey the sentiment that one’s level of skill is low.
Examples:
1) 大家让我画画，那我只好献丑了。
If you really must see me draw, you’re in for an ugly treat.
2) 既然大家不介意，我就献丑了。
Since none of you seem to mind, let me give it a go and show you how indequate I am.
3) 与各位名家们的作品相比，我的作品难登大雅之堂，不敢献丑。
When compared to the works of the masters, my piece is utterly inelegant, and thus I dare not present it.
71. 屈就 qūjiù
Literally: 屈, as in 委屈, “to cause sb to feel wronged” + 就, “to take on [a post]”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when asking someone to take on a post, with the face-giving implication that the position offered is beneath them but that they condescend to take it temporarily.
Examples:
1) 王小姐肯屈就，真的是让公司全体董事会成员感到荣光。
The fact that Miss Wang is willing to lower herself to take this post is an honour for all the members of the company’s board.
2) 如蒙屈就，不胜荣幸。
It would be an honour if you would condescend to take this post.
3) 诚盼您能来我公司屈就顾问。
I sincerely hope you can come to our company to take on a consultant role.
Note: See also its near-synonym 屈尊 qūzūn, “to condescend; to stoop to”.
72. 冒昧 màomèi
Literally: 冒, “to offend” + 昧, “to offend”.
Type of expression: 谦词 (self-deprecatory expression).
Usage: Used when saying something that one knows to be indiscreet or possibly rude.
Examples:
1) 冒昧问一句，您的女儿今年多大了？
Excuse me for asking, but how old is your daughter this year?
2) 恕我冒昧，你今天的脸色不好，是不是哪里不舒服？
Excuse me for saying so, but you look a bit off-colour, are you feeling all right?
3) 我不揣冒昧提了这样的问题，请您一定原谅。
Please forgive me, but I took the liberty of raising this question.
73. 高足 gāozú
Literally: 高, “high; respected” + 足, “foot”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used as an appellation when referring to the students of others.
Examples:
1) 这位青年学者是李教授的高足。
This young scholar is a student of Professor Li.
2) 原来您是闵老师的高足，失敬失敬。
Oh, so you are a student of Teacher Min, I’m sorry I didn’t realise.
3) 孔子的高足有哪些？
Who were the disciples of Confucius?
74. 欠安 qiàn’ān
Literally: 欠, “to lack” + 安, “peace”.
Type of expression: 婉词 (euphemism).
Usage: Used to describe someone has become ill or unwell.
Examples:
1) 听说贵体欠安。
I have heard you have fallen ill.
2) 您身体欠安，注意要多休息。
You’re not well. Be sure to get some rest.
3) 皇上近日龙体欠安，不能处理国事。
His Majesty has taken ill the past few days and is unable to handle matters of the state.
75. 惠存 huìcún
Literally: 惠, “to favour; to benefit” + 存, “to store; to keep”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when presenting a gift, photograph, phone number, etc. to someone, to request that the other person keep it safe.
Examples:
1) 这是我刚写的一张书法，希望您能惠存。
This is a piece of calligraphy I completed, please be so kind as to accept it as a keepsake.
2) 这是我的新号码，请您惠存。
This is my new number, please hold on to it.
3) 您好，这是我的简历，请您惠存，我感觉自己特合适贵公司。
Hello, this is my resume, please take a copy. I feel I am well-suited to your company.
Note: 惠存 huìcún is also used when signing an autograph or writing a greeting on the back of a photograph, e.g. 吾友索菲惠存 (“for my friend Sophie”).
76. 千金 qiānjīn
Literally: “one thousand [pieces of] gold”).
Type of expression: 敬称 (term of respect).
Usage: Used when referring to someone’s daughter.
Examples:
1) 您千金到上大学的年龄了吗？
Is your daughter of university age yet?
2) 梅梅是杨教授家的千金。
Meimei is the daughter of Professor Yang.
3) 令千金近来安好？
Has your daughter been well of late?
Note: 千金 qiānjīn can also imply a spoilt, princess-like daughter of a rich family, especially when used with 大小姐 dàxiǎojie, e.g. 她是个千金大小姐，惹不起 (“she is a spoilt princess, best not provoke her”).
77. 芳龄 fānglíng
Literally: “beautiful age”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when referring to the age of a young lady.
Examples:
1) 请问您千金芳龄几何？
May I ask the age of your precious daughter?
2) 大学里的女生多正值芳龄。
Most women at university are at their best age.
3) 她正值二八芳龄。
She has just turned sixteen.
78. 伉俪 kànglì
Literally: 伉, “to be well-matched” + 俪, “to be coupled”.
Type of expression: 普通词 (ordinary word), but used to convey a polite sentiment.
Usage: Used when referring to a married couple.
Examples:
1) 钱钟书和杨绛在近代中国文学史上是一对著名的伉俪。
In the history of Chinese literature, Qian Zhongshu and Yang Jiang are a famous married couple.
2) 这一对伉俪可以说是志同道合，举案齐眉，相敬如宾。
This married couple are kindred spirits and treat each other with respect.
3) 衷心祝福贤伉俪！
Best wishes to the happy married couple!
79. 令爱 lìng’ài
Literally: “beautiful love”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when referring to someone’s daughter.
Examples:
1) 令爱今年几岁了？
How old is your daughter this year?
2) 令爱是否上过大学？
Is your daughter attending university?
3) 令爱真是了不起，小小年纪就做起了生意。
Your daughter is amazing to have started doing business at such a young age.
80. 令郎 lìngláng
Literally: “beautiful young man”.
Type of expression: 敬词 (honorific).
Usage: Used when referring to someone’s son.
Examples:
1) 令郎在哪所大学就读？
Which university does your son attend?
2) 令郎工作顺利吗？
Is your son’s job going well?
3) 令郎真是才高八斗
Your son is extraordinarily talented.
Hello. I was wondering if you could include pinyin whenever you use characters. I can’t read Chinese very well.
Try Google Translate. It has a hanzi -> pinyin function.
Excellent! It is also really useful for me to learn some daily English. I’ve taken many notes from you text.
非常感谢！
Thank you. I’m helped a lot. I grew up with spoken Cantonese and a smattering of spoken mandarin not. Google translate gave unsatisfactory results when I tried typing ‘small meaning’ (literally, but didn’t cross my mind to try ‘small token’) while my mind reads and desires the text for ‘小意思’.
非常感謝 !