In 15 Seconds
- A polite way to say 'same to you' or 'likewise.'
- Used to return compliments or acknowledge shared experiences.
- Rooted in traditional Chinese humility and social balance.
Meaning
It is a humble way to say 'we are in the same boat' or 'the same applies to me.' Use it to return a compliment or acknowledge a shared situation.
Key Examples
3 of 6A colleague praises your presentation skills.
你的演讲也很棒，彼此彼此！
Your speech was also great, same to you!
Texting a friend who is also staying up late to study.
你还没睡？彼此彼此，我也在加班。
You're not asleep yet? Same here, I'm working overtime too.
A friend jokes that you are both getting old.
我们都老了。彼此彼此吧！
We're both old. We're in the same boat!
Cultural Background
Using this phrase shows you understand 'modesty culture.' It's often better than a simple 'thank you' when receiving praise. The usage is identical, but the tone might be slightly softer. It's very common in professional environments. In negotiations, it's a 'power-leveling' phrase. It ensures neither side feels subordinate. Often used with emojis like 🙏 or 🤝 on social media to show mutual respect between fans or creators.
The Compliment Deflector
Use this instead of 'Xie xie' to sound 10x more native when someone praises your skills.
Not for Objects
Don't use it to say two objects are the same; it's for people and their situations.
In 15 Seconds
- A polite way to say 'same to you' or 'likewise.'
- Used to return compliments or acknowledge shared experiences.
- Rooted in traditional Chinese humility and social balance.
What It Means
彼此彼此 (bǐ cǐ bǐ cǐ) is your go-to phrase for 'same here.' It literally means 'that one, this one.' It suggests there is no difference between us. You use it to deflect praise or acknowledge a mutual state. It is humble, polite, and very Chinese.
How To Use It
Think of it as a verbal mirror. When someone says something nice about you, reflect it back. You do not need a long sentence. Just say the four words and smile. It works perfectly as a standalone response. It is like saying, 'You are just as good as I am.'
When To Use It
Use it when a colleague praises your hard work. Use it when a friend says you look stylish today. It is great for networking events to build rapport quickly. Even in a lighthearted argument, it works. If someone calls you 'lazy,' you can jokingly fire it back. It keeps the social energy balanced and flowing.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for serious apologies or deep tragedies. If someone says 'I am sorry for your loss,' do not say this. It would be very awkward and confusing. Also, avoid using it with much older superiors. It might feel a bit too casual or cheeky. Stick to peers or those slightly above or below you.
Cultural Background
This phrase comes from classical Chinese literature. It reflects the cultural value of 'Modesty' (谦虚). In China, accepting a compliment directly can feel boastful. By saying 彼此彼此, you share the credit. It shows you value the other person's status as much as your own. It is the ultimate 'social glue' for harmony.
Common Variations
You might hear 大家一样 (dà jiā yī yàng) for 'we are all the same.' Or 你也一样 (nǐ yě yī yàng) for a literal 'you too.' However, 彼此彼此 sounds much more sophisticated and rhythmic. It has a nice 'bounce' when you say it. It makes you sound like a true local.
Usage Notes
The phrase is neutral-to-informal. It is best used among peers or in casual business settings to create a sense of equality and mutual respect.
The Compliment Deflector
Use this instead of 'Xie xie' to sound 10x more native when someone praises your skills.
Not for Objects
Don't use it to say two objects are the same; it's for people and their situations.
Smile while saying it
The phrase carries a friendly, mutual warmth. A smile completes the meaning.
Examples
6你的演讲也很棒，彼此彼此！
Your speech was also great, same to you!
Returns the compliment to maintain professional harmony.
你还没睡？彼此彼此，我也在加班。
You're not asleep yet? Same here, I'm working overtime too.
Shows solidarity in a shared struggle.
我们都老了。彼此彼此吧！
We're both old. We're in the same boat!
Used humorously to accept a self-deprecating joke.
今年生意不错。彼此彼此，合作愉快。
Business is good this year. Same to you, glad we worked together.
Acknowledges mutual success in a formal setting.
我儿子太调皮了。彼此彼此，我女儿也是。
My son is so naughty. Same here, so is my daughter.
Creates a bond through shared parenting struggles.
你是个强手。彼此彼此。
You're a strong opponent. Same to you.
Shows respect to an opponent.
Test Yourself
Choose the best response to the following compliment.
A: {你|nǐ}{的|de}{中文|zhōngwén}{说|shuō}{得|de}{真|zhēn}{好|hǎo}！
B is the most natural and polite way to return a compliment in Chinese.
Fill in the blank to complete the dialogue.
A: {我|wǒ}{今天|jīntiān}{忘|wàng}{了|le}{带|dài}{书|shū}。 B: ________，{我|wǒ}{也|yě}{没|méi}{带|dài}。
Since both people forgot their books, '彼此彼此' acknowledges the shared situation.
Match the situation to the correct use of 彼此彼此.
Which situation is NOT suitable for 彼此彼此?
Personal preferences like liking a color are not reciprocal qualities suitable for this phrase.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesA: {你|nǐ}{的|de}{中文|zhōngwén}{说|shuō}{得|de}{真|zhēn}{好|hǎo}！
B is the most natural and polite way to return a compliment in Chinese.
A: {我|wǒ}{今天|jīntiān}{忘|wàng}{了|le}{带|dài}{书|shū}。 B: ________，{我|wǒ}{也|yě}{没|méi}{带|dài}。
Since both people forgot their books, '彼此彼此' acknowledges the shared situation.
Which situation is NOT suitable for 彼此彼此?
Personal preferences like liking a color are not reciprocal qualities suitable for this phrase.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsIt's neutral. You can use it with friends or in a business meeting. It's polite but not stiff.
No, unless it is also their birthday! Use '同乐' (tóng lè) or just 'Thank you'.
'Wo ye yiyang' is for facts/preferences. 'Bici bici' is for mutual qualities or returning social gestures.
Related Phrases
我也一样
similarMe too
半斤八两
similarSix of one, half a dozen of the other
礼尚往来
builds onCourtesy demands reciprocity
同感
similarI feel the same
