Meaning
A neutral response, indicating things are acceptable but not great.
Cultural Background
Used frequently in daily life to maintain social harmony and avoid direct criticism. Very similar usage, often used in casual conversation to soften opinions. Often used in Cantonese-influenced Mandarin, though locals might prefer 'ok' or '麻麻地'. Used in the local Mandarin context, often alongside English 'okay'.
Use it to be polite
When you don't want to hurt someone's feelings, {还好|háihǎo} is your best friend.
Don't over-use
If you use it for everything, you might sound like you don't have strong opinions.
Meaning
A neutral response, indicating things are acceptable but not great.
Use it to be polite
When you don't want to hurt someone's feelings, {还好|háihǎo} is your best friend.
Don't over-use
If you use it for everything, you might sound like you don't have strong opinions.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
A: 你觉得这部电影怎么样？ B: ______，没我想象中那么好。
The context 'not as good as I thought' suggests a neutral, mediocre opinion.
Match the situation to the correct usage of {还好|háihǎo}.
Situation: You are relieved you didn't miss the train.
When expressing relief, {还好|háihǎo} is followed by the positive outcome.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercisesA: 你觉得这部电影怎么样？ B: ______，没我想象中那么好。
The context 'not as good as I thought' suggests a neutral, mediocre opinion.
Situation: You are relieved you didn't miss the train.
When expressing relief, {还好|háihǎo} is followed by the positive outcome.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsIt is neutral. It means 'acceptable'.
Use it carefully. It might make you sound unenthusiastic.
Related Phrases
还可以
synonymStill okay/decent
还行
synonymStill okay
凑合
contrastBarely acceptable
不错
contrastNot bad
