In 15 Seconds
- Use it to ask for a doggy bag for leftovers.
- Use it at the counter to order food 'to go'.
- It is a polite way to prevent food waste.
Meaning
This phrase is your go-to way to say 'to go' or 'wrap it up' when you are at a restaurant. It literally means to pack things into a bag or box so you can take them home.
Key Examples
3 of 6Finishing a meal at a local noodle shop
服务员，麻烦打包。
Waiter, could you wrap this up for me?
Ordering a coffee at a cafe
在这儿喝还是打包？
Drink here or to go?
At a business lunch with a lot of extra food
这么多菜，我们打包吧。
There's so much food, let's get it to go.
Cultural Background
Packing leftovers is a sign of thriftiness. Similar usage, very common in night markets. Often uses '外卖' (takeaway) more frequently.
Be polite
Always add '请' (please) before {打包|dǎbāo}.
In 15 Seconds
- Use it to ask for a doggy bag for leftovers.
- Use it at the counter to order food 'to go'.
- It is a polite way to prevent food waste.
What It Means
打包 is the universal Chinese term for getting a doggy bag or ordering takeout. It is simple, punchy, and understood everywhere. Whether you have leftovers or you are ordering fresh food to eat at home, this is the word you need.
How To Use It
You can use it as a verb or a request. Just catch the waiter's eye and say 打包. They will either bring you boxes to do it yourself or take your plates to the kitchen to pack them for you. If you are ordering at the counter, say 我要打包 to let them know you aren't staying.
When To Use It
Use it at any casual or mid-range restaurant when you can't finish your delicious meal. It is also perfect for street food stalls. Even in a professional setting, if there is a lot of food left after a business lunch, it is increasingly common to 打包 to avoid waste. It shows you value the food!
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using it at extremely high-end, formal banquets unless the host suggests it first. In those settings, asking to 'wrap it up' might feel a bit too casual. Also, don't use it for non-food items like packing a suitcase for a trip; use 收拾行李 for that instead.
Cultural Background
In Chinese culture, hospitality often means ordering way more food than guests can eat. For a long time, taking leftovers was seen as 'losing face.' However, modern China has embraced the 'Clear Your Plate' campaign. Now, 打包 is seen as a sign of being sensible, eco-friendly, and respectful toward the chef.
Common Variations
In Southern China or Taiwan, you might hear 外带 (wàidài) more often for 'takeout.' While 打包 usually refers to leftovers, 外带 is specifically for ordering food to-go from the start. If you are using a delivery app, you are looking for 外卖 (wài mài).
Usage Notes
The phrase is very versatile and sits right in the middle of the formality scale. It is safe to use with friends, colleagues, and waitstaff. Just remember it's for food!
Be polite
Always add '请' (please) before {打包|dǎbāo}.
Examples
6服务员，麻烦打包。
Waiter, could you wrap this up for me?
A standard, polite way to ask for a container.
在这儿喝还是打包？
Drink here or to go?
This is what the barista will likely ask you.
这么多菜，我们打包吧。
There's so much food, let's get it to go.
Suggesting this shows you are practical and hate waste.
我打包了火锅，快回家！
I got hotpot to go, get home fast!
Using it to describe the act of bringing food home.
你吃不完？这太难得了，赶紧打包！
You can't finish? That's rare, let's wrap it up quickly!
Teasing a friend about their appetite.
奶奶做的菜，我都要打包带走。
I want to pack up all of grandma's cooking and take it with me.
Expressing love for home-cooked food.
Test Yourself
Which phrase is correct for leftovers?
我吃不完了，请帮我___。
{打包|dǎbāo} is the specific term for packing leftovers.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercises我吃不完了，请帮我___。
{打包|dǎbāo} is the specific term for packing leftovers.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, it is very common and encouraged.
Related Phrases
外卖
similarTakeout/Delivery
带走
synonymTake away
