In 15 Seconds
- A vital phrase for dining and hygiene in daily life.
- Combines 'have' (yǒu), 'tissue' (zhǐjīn), and a question marker (ma).
- Essential because napkins aren't always free or provided automatically.
Meaning
This is a simple, polite way to ask if someone has a tissue or napkin. It is a lifesaver phrase for when you are eating out or have a sudden sneeze.
Key Examples
3 of 6At a spicy hotpot restaurant
服务员，有纸巾吗？
Waiter, do you have tissues?
Asking a colleague in the office
请问，你这儿有纸巾吗？
Excuse me, do you have any tissues here?
Texting a friend who is coming to meet you
带点纸，你有纸巾吗？
Bring some paper, do you have tissues?
Cultural Background
In many Chinese restaurants, tissues are not free. Don't be surprised if the waiter points to a pack you have to buy. Carrying your own tissues is a common habit because public restrooms often run out of paper.
Politeness
Always add '请问' (May I ask) to sound more polite.
In 15 Seconds
- A vital phrase for dining and hygiene in daily life.
- Combines 'have' (yǒu), 'tissue' (zhǐjīn), and a question marker (ma).
- Essential because napkins aren't always free or provided automatically.
What It Means
This phrase is your ultimate survival tool in China. 有 (yǒu) means 'to have.' 纸巾 (zhǐjīn) means 'tissue' or 'paper napkin.' The 吗 (ma) at the end turns it into a question. It is direct and clear. You are asking, 'Is there a tissue available?' or 'Do you have one on you?'
How To Use It
Just say the three words with a rising tone at the end. You can say it to a waiter at a restaurant. You can whisper it to a friend during a movie. If you want to be extra polite, add 请问 (qǐngwèn) at the start. That means 'Excuse me, may I ask...'
When To Use It
Use it when your hands are sticky from street food. Use it when you realize the public restroom is out of paper. It is perfect for when you are sweating in the summer heat. It even works if you see a friend crying and want to help. It is a very versatile and practical sentence.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this in a super formal business presentation. It is a bit too casual for a speech. However, it is fine to ask a colleague during a break. Avoid using it if you are looking for a heavy bath towel. For that, you would need a different word entirely. Also, do not expect every public stall to have paper.
Cultural Background
In China, many restaurants do not put napkins on the table for free. You often have to ask for them or buy a small pack. Carrying your own small pack of tissues is a local pro-move. If you ask a stranger, they will usually be happy to help. It is a small way people show kindness to each other.
Common Variations
有没有纸巾?(Yǒu méiyǒu zhǐjīn?) - 'Do you have tissues or not?'给我一张纸巾(Gěi wǒ yī zhāng zhǐjīn) - 'Give me one tissue.'餐巾纸(Cānjīnzhǐ) - This specifically means 'napkin' used at a dinner table.抽纸(Chōuzhǐ) - This refers to the tissues you pull from a box.
Usage Notes
This phrase is safe for almost any situation. It is neutral in formality, making it appropriate for both friends and service staff.
Politeness
Always add '请问' (May I ask) to sound more polite.
Examples
6服务员，有纸巾吗？
Waiter, do you have tissues?
Commonly used when the table doesn't have napkins provided.
请问，你这儿有纸巾吗？
Excuse me, do you have any tissues here?
Adding 'qǐngwèn' makes it more polite for a professional setting.
带点纸，你有纸巾吗？
Bring some paper, do you have tissues?
Shortened for a quick text message.
别哭了，我有纸巾。
Don't cry, I have tissues.
A comforting gesture using the statement version of the phrase.
有人吗？有纸巾吗？
Is anyone there? Is there any tissue?
A slightly desperate but necessary shout for help!
不好意思，请问你有纸巾吗？
Sorry, may I ask if you have a tissue?
The most polite way to ask someone you don't know.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word.
你____纸巾吗？
The verb for 'to have' is '有'.
Which is the correct way to ask for a tissue?
Which sentence is correct?
The standard word order is [Verb] + [Object] + [Question Particle].
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercises你____纸巾吗？
The verb for 'to have' is '有'.
Which sentence is correct?
The standard word order is [Verb] + [Object] + [Question Particle].
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsIt is generally acceptable in casual settings like cafes or restaurants.
Related Phrases
给我一张纸巾
specialized formGive me a tissue.
有纸吗
similarDo you have paper?
