做东

You use it like a verb. You can say "Today I 做东." This tells everyone to put their wallets away. It is often used when inviting people out. It makes the invitation official and generous. You can also use it to thank someone. You might say, "Next time, let me 做东."

Use it when you want to celebrate something. Use it when meeting a friend from out of town. It is perfect for business lunches too. If you got a promotion, you should probably 做东. It shows you are successful and kind. It creates a sense of harmony and friendship.

Don't use it for a casual 50/50 split. If everyone is paying for themselves, this phrase is wrong. Avoid using it if you are actually broke. It is a promise to pay the whole bill. Also, don't use it in very stiff, robotic settings. It has a warm, social heart.

In ancient China, the host always sat on the east side. The guest sat on the west. Because the host sat in the east, they became the "East." This is why the word for "boss" is 东家. Even today, being the "East" means you have the power and the bill.

You will often hear 请客. That is the most common way to say "my treat." 做东 is slightly more elegant and traditional. You might also hear 今天我坐庄. That is more common in card games or gambling. Stick to 做东 for dinners and events to sound like a pro.