In 15 Seconds
- A casual 'See you later' for people you see often.
- Rooted in Beijing dialect but used widely across China.
- Best for friends, colleagues, and familiar shopkeepers.
Meaning
It is a casual way to say goodbye when you expect to see the person again soon. It literally means 'return' and 'see,' implying your paths will cross again shortly.
Key Examples
3 of 6Leaving the office for the day
下班了，回见！
Off work now, see ya!
Ending a quick lunch with a friend
饭很好吃，咱们回见。
The food was great, see you later.
Saying goodbye to your boss
王经理，那我们就先回见了。
Manager Wang, we will see you later then.
Cultural Background
This is a staple of Beijing dialect and daily life. Used frequently in text messages and social media. Never use it with a manager.
Context is King
Only use this with people you would call by their first name or nickname.
Northern Flavor
If you want to sound like a local in Beijing, this is your go-to phrase.
In 15 Seconds
- A casual 'See you later' for people you see often.
- Rooted in Beijing dialect but used widely across China.
- Best for friends, colleagues, and familiar shopkeepers.
What It Means
回见 (huíjiàn) is a breezy, low-pressure way to say goodbye. It is the Chinese equivalent of saying "See ya!" or "Catch you later." The first character 回 means to return, and 见 means to see or meet. Together, they suggest that the current interaction is over, but a future one is already on the horizon. It is less final than a formal goodbye. It feels like a promise to reconnect soon.
How To Use It
Using it is incredibly simple. You just say it as you are walking away or hanging up. You do not need to add much else to it. It usually stands alone as the final word in a conversation. You can pair it with a wave or a quick nod. It is short, punchy, and very easy to pronounce. Just drop it at the end of a chat and keep moving. It saves you from the stiffness of a textbook farewell.
When To Use It
Use this when you have a high probability of seeing the person again. Maybe it is a coworker you will see tomorrow. Perhaps it is a friend you just had coffee with. It is perfect for neighbors you pass in the hallway. Use it at your favorite bubble tea shop when leaving. It works great in text messages to end a thread. It is the ultimate 'low-maintenance' social closer for daily life.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for very solemn or permanent goodbyes. If someone is moving to another country, 回见 feels too casual. It might seem like you are not taking the departure seriously. Avoid using it with very high-ranking officials or elderly strangers. In those cases, stick to the standard 再见. Also, do not use it if you genuinely never plan to see them again. That would just be awkward and confusing for everyone involved.
Cultural Background
This phrase has a very strong Northern Chinese flavor. Specifically, it is a staple of Beijing dialect and street culture. It reflects the casual, neighborly vibe of the old Hutong neighborhoods. People there are constantly popping in and out of each other's lives. It suggests a community where everyone is a familiar face. Over time, it spread across China through TV and movies. Now, almost everyone understands and uses it, regardless of their region.
Common Variations
If you want to be even more specific, you can add time. You might hear 回头见 (huítóujiàn), which means "see you when I turn my head" (later). Some people just say 回见您内 in old Beijing style to be extra polite. In very casual settings, young people might just use the English "Bye-bye." But 回见 remains the classic, cool choice for daily interactions. It sounds more authentic and grounded than just mimicking English. Give it a try next time you leave a friend!
Usage Notes
This is an informal expression best suited for spoken language or casual texting. It carries a friendly, 'local' vibe and should be avoided in high-stakes formal ceremonies.
Context is King
Only use this with people you would call by their first name or nickname.
Northern Flavor
If you want to sound like a local in Beijing, this is your go-to phrase.
Examples
6下班了，回见！
Off work now, see ya!
Perfect for coworkers you will see the next morning.
饭很好吃，咱们回见。
The food was great, see you later.
Adds a warm finish to a casual meal.
王经理，那我们就先回见了。
Manager Wang, we will see you later then.
Acceptable if you have a friendly, established relationship with your boss.
行，那周六回见！
Okay, see you Saturday!
Commonly used in WeChat to end a planning conversation.
你又忘带钥匙了？回见吧您呐！
You forgot your keys again? See ya later (good luck)!
Using the Beijing 'nin na' ending adds a humorous, sarcastic bite.
我就去出差三天，回见。
I'm only on a business trip for three days, see you then.
Used to reassure someone that the absence is very brief.
Test Yourself
Which situation is appropriate for '回见'?
You are leaving your best friend's house.
回见 is for friends, not superiors or strangers.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Goodbye Phrases
Casual
- • 回见
- • 回聊
Formal
- • 再见
- • 明天见
Practice Bank
1 exercisesYou are leaving your best friend's house.
回见 is for friends, not superiors or strangers.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsNo, it is too informal for written correspondence.
No, it is used by everyone.
Related Phrases
回头见
synonymSee you later
再见
contrastGoodbye
回聊
similarTalk later
