Chinese · Greetings & Phrases

Qǐng

Please

Beginnerverb

Definition

Used to make polite requests or invite someone to do something.

Example

请坐,请喝茶。

Please sit down, please have some tea.

Etymology

'请' (Qǐng) means 'please' and originates from a root meaning to 'invite' or 'request' in a courteous manner, reflecting the Chinese cultural emphasis on politeness.

How & Where It’s Used

'请' is used in both spoken and written forms across various settings, ranging from formal to informal requests.

Watch “Please” pronunciation on YouTube
politeness

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