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B2 noun 12 min read

送礼

song li

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 送礼 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 送礼 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to understand that 送礼 (sònglǐ) means 'to give a gift.' Think of it as a combination of two basic words you might already know: '送' (to give/send) and '礼' (short for '礼物' - gift). In English, we usually say 'give a gift,' but in Chinese, we use this special two-character word. At this stage, just focus on the basic idea: if it's someone's birthday or a holiday, you might 送礼. You will usually see it used with the word '给' (gěi), which means 'to.' For example: '我给朋友送礼' (I give a friend a gift). Don't worry about the complicated rules yet; just remember it as a single action. You can use it for simple situations like giving a toy to a child or a card to a teacher. It is a very polite and common word to know even as a beginner because Chinese people value the act of giving very much. Even a small gesture counts as 送礼. Just remember the order: Who + gives (给) + to whom + 送礼. This will help you get through basic social interactions during Chinese holidays or parties.

At the A2 level, you should start to notice that 送礼 (sònglǐ) is a bit special because you can put words in the middle of it. We call this a 'separable verb.' For example, if you want to say 'gave a gift' (past tense), you put '了' after '送', making it '送了礼'. You might also hear people say '送一份礼', where '一份' is the measure word for a gift. At this level, you should use 送礼 when talking about common social events like the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) or Mid-Autumn Festival. You will often hear people ask, '过年你送礼了吗？' (Did you give gifts for the New Year?). You should also learn the difference between 送礼 (the action) and 礼物 (the noun). If you want to say 'I like this gift,' use 礼物. If you want to say 'I am going to give him a gift,' use 送礼. You should also be aware of simple cultural habits, like giving fruit or tea when visiting someone's home. This is the most common way A2 learners will practice 送礼 in real life.

At the B1 level, you are expected to understand the social purpose of 送礼 (sònglǐ). It isn't just about the item; it's about the relationship. You should be able to use the word in more complex sentences, such as explaining why you are giving a gift. For example: '为了感谢老师的照顾，我们要给他送礼' (To thank the teacher for his care, we want to give him a gift). You should also become familiar with common collocations like '送大礼' (give a big/expensive gift) or '送重礼' (give a heavy/valuable gift). At this level, you start to learn about 'face' (miànzi). Giving a gift is a way to 'give face' to someone else. You might also hear the word used in business contexts, like '给客户送礼' (giving gifts to clients). You should be able to discuss the etiquette of 送礼, such as the fact that Chinese people often decline a gift several times before accepting it. This 'social dance' is part of the 送礼 process. You are also moving beyond just 'birthday' gifts and into 'social obligation' gifts, which are a huge part of life in China. Understanding this word helps you understand how Chinese people maintain their social networks.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 送礼 (sònglǐ), including its potential negative connotations. While it is usually a positive social act, in business and politics, it can sometimes imply bribery or seeking special favors. You should be able to distinguish between '礼尚往来' (appropriate social reciprocity) and '行贿' (illegal bribery). Grammatically, you should be very comfortable with its separable nature, using it with various aspect markers and complex modifiers: '他送过很多次礼，但都没被接受' (He has given gifts many times, but none were accepted). You should also know the cultural taboos associated with 送礼, such as not giving clocks, umbrellas, or sharp objects. At B2, you should be able to discuss the 'over-packaging' problem in China, where the '礼' (gift) itself is less expensive than the box it comes in. You can also use the word in the context of 'return gifts' (回礼). You should be able to write an email or a formal note accompanying a gift, using appropriate language that balances humility and respect. At this level, 送礼 is not just a vocabulary word; it is a gateway to discussing Chinese sociology and ethics.

At the C1 level, your understanding of 送礼 (sònglǐ) should encompass the deep historical and philosophical roots of the word. The '礼' (lǐ) in 送礼 originates from the Confucian concept of 'Ritual' or 'Propriety,' which was the foundation of a stable society. You should be able to discuss how modern gift-giving is an evolution of these ancient rituals. You can analyze the 'gift economy' in China and how it differs from Western market-based interactions. You should be able to use the word in high-level debates about corporate compliance and 'anti-corruption' (反腐) campaigns, where '违规送礼' (violating gift-giving regulations) is a technical term. You should also be familiar with literary or idiomatic expressions related to gifts, such as '千里送鹅毛，礼轻情意重' (A goose feather from a thousand miles away; the gift is light but the feeling is heavy). This level requires you to understand the psychological pressure of 送礼—how it can sometimes be a burden rather than a joy. You should be able to read complex articles about the 'gift industry' and the social changes that are making young Chinese people move away from traditional 送礼 norms toward more personal, less obligatory forms of expression.

At the C2 level, you should be able to use and analyze 送礼 (sònglǐ) with the sophistication of a native speaker or a scholar. You can explore the linguistic nuances between 送礼 and more obscure terms like '馈赠' (kuìzèng), '奉送' (fèngsòng), or '贽见' (zhìjiàn - an ancient term for a gift given when meeting someone for the first time). You should be able to conduct a sociolinguistic analysis of how the term is used in different Chinese-speaking regions (e.g., Mainland China vs. Taiwan vs. Singapore), noting any differences in frequency or connotation. You can discuss the 'dark matter' of Chinese bureaucracy where 送礼 becomes an intricate art of subtle signaling and unspoken agreements. Your mastery includes the ability to use the word ironically or metaphorically in creative writing or high-level political commentary. You understand the 'mianzi' (face) dynamics so well that you can predict the social consequences of a specific act of 送礼 in a complex scenario. At this level, you don't just know the word; you understand the entire cultural architecture that the word supports. You can critique the commercialization of traditional festivals and how the '送礼' industry impacts the economy and environment. You are essentially a cultural mediator who can explain the deep-seated motivations behind this practice to others.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

送礼 in 30 Seconds

To give a gift; an essential Chinese social ritual for building relationships and showing respect during holidays or visits.
A separable verb (送+礼) where you can insert modifiers like '送大礼' (give a big gift) or aspect markers like '送过礼'.
Deeply tied to the concept of 'Guanxi' and 'Face', requiring careful attention to cultural taboos and the rule of reciprocity.
Can range from innocent birthday presents to strategic business gifts, and even euphemisms for bribery in certain contexts.

The term 送礼 (sònglǐ) is a cornerstone of Chinese social dynamics, representing much more than the simple English translation of 'to give a gift.' At its core, it is a verb-object construction where '送' (sòng) means to send or give, and '礼' (lǐ) represents a gift, ritual, or ceremony. In the context of Chinese culture, the act of gift-giving is an essential mechanism for building and maintaining guānxì (relationships), showing respect, and navigating the complex web of social obligations. Understanding when and how to use this term requires an appreciation for the nuances of 'face' (miànzi) and reciprocity.

Social Reciprocity: In Chinese society, gift-giving is rarely a one-way street. The concept of lǐ shàng wǎng lái (courtesy demands reciprocity) dictates that if someone gives you a gift, you are socially obligated to return the favor eventually. Thus, the act of 送礼 initiates or sustains a cycle of mutual benefit and respect.
Occasions for Giving: Common scenarios for 送礼 include the Lunar New Year (Spring Festival), weddings, birthdays (especially for elders), and visiting someone's home for the first time. It is also prevalent in business settings, though modern anti-corruption laws have tightened the definitions of what constitutes a 'gift' versus a 'bribe.'

过年的时候，给长辈送礼是中国人的传统习俗。 (Giving gifts to elders during the New Year is a traditional Chinese custom.)

Beyond the physical object, the 'value' of the gift is often scrutinized. It shouldn't be so cheap that it looks like you don't care, but it shouldn't be so expensive that it creates an impossible burden of reciprocity for the receiver. The act of 送礼 is essentially a communication tool—it says 'I value our connection' or 'I am grateful for your help.' In modern urban China, while the traditional rules are relaxing among the youth, the underlying principle of showing thoughtfulness remains paramount.

去朋友家吃饭，千万别忘了送礼，哪怕只是一盒水果。 (When going to a friend's house for dinner, definitely don't forget to bring a gift, even if it's just a box of fruit.)

The 'Red Envelope' Exception: While 送礼 often refers to physical items, giving a 'Hongbao' (red envelope with cash) is the most common form of gift-giving at weddings and during Chinese New Year. In these cases, the 'gift' is standardized and highly practical.

In summary, 送礼 is a social lubricant. It eases introductions, mends disagreements, and reinforces family bonds. Whether it is a corporate executive presenting a premium tea set to a partner or a child giving a handmade card to a teacher, the verb 送礼 encapsulates the intentionality of the gesture. It is less about the 'what' and more about the 'who' and 'why.'

他为了求人办事，到处托关系送礼。 (In order to ask for a favor, he went around using connections and giving gifts.)

This last example highlights a more cynical side of the word. In certain contexts, 送礼 can imply a bribe or an attempt to gain unfair advantage. However, in everyday conversation, it remains a neutral and essential part of the vocabulary for anyone living or working in a Chinese-speaking environment. Mastering the art of 送礼 is a significant step toward cultural fluency.

Grammatically, 送礼 (sònglǐ) is a 'separable verb' (离合词 líhécí). This means that while it functions as a single concept (to give a gift), the two characters '送' (verb) and '礼' (object) can be separated by other words like measure words, adjectives, or aspect markers. This is the most crucial grammatical rule to master for B2 learners.

Basic Structure: Subject + 给 (gěi) + Recipient + 送礼. Example: 我给老师送礼 (I give the teacher a gift). Here, '给' functions as the preposition 'to'.
Using Aspect Markers: Since it is separable, markers like 了 (le), 过 (guò), and 着 (zhe) must be placed after the verb part '送', not after '礼'. Correct: 我送了礼. Incorrect: 我送礼了 (though often heard in casual speech, the former is more grammatically precise for emphasis).

他已经给经理送过礼了，但事情还没办成。 (He has already given a gift to the manager, but the matter hasn't been settled yet.)

When you want to specify the type or quantity of gifts, you insert the description between '送' and '礼'. For example, to say 'give a big gift,' you say sòng dà lǐ (送大礼). To say 'give some gifts,' you say sòng diǎn lǐ (送点礼). This flexibility is what distinguishes it from the noun lǐwù (礼物), which cannot be split this way.

这次搬家，邻居们都来送了一份厚礼。 (For this move, the neighbors all came and gave a generous gift.)

Purpose and Intent: We often use the structure '为了 (wèile) ... 而送礼' to explain the motive. Example: 为了感谢他的帮助，我决定给他送礼 (To thank him for his help, I decided to give him a gift).

In formal writing, you might see 馈赠 (kuìzèng) or 赠送 (zèngsòng) used instead of 送礼. However, in spoken Mandarin and general prose, 送礼 is the standard choice. It covers everything from a child giving a drawing to a parent to a businessman bringing expensive alcohol to a banquet. It’s also important to note the negative form: bù sòng lǐ (not giving gifts). In some modern professional environments, '不收礼，不送礼' (no receiving, no giving) is a strict code of conduct.

我们公司规定，严禁向客户送礼。 (Our company policy strictly prohibits giving gifts to clients.)

Lastly, consider the 'degree' of the gift. Chinese has specific adjectives that often split 送礼. Sòng hòulǐ (送厚礼) means giving a substantial or expensive gift, while sòng xiǎolǐ (送小礼) implies a small token of appreciation. These nuances help the speaker navigate the social hierarchy and expectations of the recipient.

在一些文化中，送礼过于贵重反而会让对方感到压力。 (In some cultures, giving a gift that is too expensive will actually make the other person feel pressured.)

To truly master 送礼 (sònglǐ), you need to recognize the specific social environments where it is most commonly discussed. It is not just a dictionary term; it is a daily topic of conversation regarding social strategy and etiquette.

The Family Dinner Table: Before a holiday like Mid-Autumn Festival or Spring Festival, you will hear families debating: '今年给大伯送什么礼？' (What gift should we give to Eldest Uncle this year?). Here, 送礼 is a logistical and financial planning task.
The Workplace / Office: In professional settings, colleagues might whisper about '送礼文化' (the culture of gift-giving). You might hear someone say, '如果不送礼，这门生意恐怕谈不下来' (If we don't give a gift, I'm afraid this business deal won't go through). This highlights the pragmatic, sometimes controversial, role of gifts in networking.

现在很多年轻人都不太讲究送礼的繁文缛节了。 (Nowadays, many young people don't care much for the red tape and formalities of gift-giving.)

You will also encounter 送礼 in retail environments. During gift-giving seasons, malls are filled with '送礼佳品' (excellent items for gift-giving) signs. Salespeople will approach you asking, '您是自己用还是送礼？' (Are you using it yourself or giving it as a gift?). This distinction is vital because 'gift' versions of products often come in elaborate, over-the-top packaging (over-packaging is a common critique of the 送礼 culture in China).

这盒茶叶包装很精美，非常适合拿来送礼。 (The packaging of this tea box is exquisite; it's very suitable for giving as a gift.)

News and Policy: In news reports about government crackdowns, '违规送礼' (illegal gift-giving) is a common phrase. This refers to using public funds for gifts or giving gifts to officials to influence policy. This shows the word's range from innocent social custom to serious legal infraction.

Social media platforms like Little Red Book (Xiaohongshu) are also goldmines for this word. You'll see posts titled '送礼攻略' (Gift-giving strategy guides) or '送礼避雷' (Avoiding 'landmines' [mistakes] when giving gifts). People share advice on what to give a mother-in-law or a difficult boss. In these digital spaces, 送礼 is treated as a skill to be learned and optimized.

他在社交媒体上分享了许多职场送礼的小技巧。 (He shared many small tips for workplace gift-giving on social media.)

Finally, you’ll hear it in the context of 'return gifts.' After a wedding, the couple might discuss '回礼' (returning a gift), which is a specific type of 送礼. The word is woven into the fabric of social life, acting as both a verb for the action and a conceptual noun for the entire system of exchange.

For English speakers, the mistakes made with 送礼 (sònglǐ) usually fall into two categories: grammatical errors stemming from its separable nature, and cultural faux pas that can lead to unintended offense.

Grammar: The Separable Verb Trap: The most common error is treating 送礼 as a standard transitive verb. You cannot say '我送礼他' (I gift him). You must use the '给' (gěi) structure: '我给他送礼'. Another mistake is putting the duration or frequency after the whole word. Incorrect: '我送礼了三次'. Correct: '我送了三次礼'.
Redundancy: Learners often try to combine '送礼' with '礼物' (lǐwù). Saying '我要送礼礼物' is like saying 'I want to give-gift a gift.' Use one or the other: '我要送礼' or '我要送礼物'.

错误：他送礼了我。正确：他给我送礼了。 (Wrong: He gift-gave me. Right: He gave a gift to me.)

Culturally, the mistakes are even more significant. One major 'landmine' is the choice of the gift itself. In Western cultures, a clock might be a nice housewarming gift. In China, 送钟 (sòngzhōng) sounds like 'paying last respects to the dying.' Similarly, giving pears (lí) to a couple is bad because 'pear' sounds like 'separate' (lí). Even the number of items matters—avoid the number 4 (sounds like death) and prefer even numbers (except 4) for celebrations.

在送礼时，避开数字“4”是非常重要的。 (When giving gifts, it is very important to avoid the number '4'.)

The 'Bribery' Misunderstanding: Some learners assume 送礼 always implies something shady. While it can mean bribery, using the word in a normal social context (like a birthday) is perfectly fine. Don't be afraid to use the word, but be mindful of the setting. If you are in a formal government or corporate environment, use more specific terms like '赠送纪念品' (giving a souvenir) to avoid any negative connotations.

Another mistake is the 'opening' etiquette. In many Western cultures, you open the gift immediately in front of the giver. In traditional Chinese culture, it is more polite to set the gift aside and open it later, as opening it immediately might look greedy or like you are judging the value of the gift. If you 送礼 to a Chinese friend and they don't open it right away, don't be offended—it's actually a sign of respect!

如果你送礼给中国人，他们通常不会当面拆开。 (If you give a gift to a Chinese person, they usually won't open it in front of you.)

Finally, over-explaining the price is a mistake. While you want the gift to have appropriate value, explicitly stating 'this cost me $500' is considered extremely gauche. The recipient will likely know the approximate value anyway. Let the act of 送礼 speak for itself.

While 送礼 (sònglǐ) is the most versatile term for gift-giving, several other words share its semantic space. Choosing the right one depends on the level of formality and the specific nature of the exchange.

礼物 (lǐwù) - The Noun: 礼物 is the physical object itself (a noun). You use it when you want to say 'The gift is on the table' (礼物在桌子上). You cannot use 送礼 in this way. 送礼 is the action; 礼物 is the thing.
赠送 (zèngsòng) - Formal Giving: This is a much more formal verb. It is used in official ceremonies, corporate donations, or when a company gives a free 'gift' with a purchase. It lacks the personal, social-obligation nuances of 送礼. Example: 随书赠送光盘 (A CD is given away with the book).

相比于随意的“送礼”，“赠送”听起来更加正式和官方。 (Compared to the casual 'giving a gift,' 'zèngsòng' sounds more formal and official.)

行贿 (xínghuì) - Bribery: When 送礼 is done with a specific, illegal intent to influence an official, the legal term is 行贿. While 送礼 can be a euphemism for this, 行贿 is the direct, accusatory word used in criminal contexts.
礼尚往来 (lǐ shàng wǎng lái) - The Idiom: This four-character idiom (chengyu) describes the principle of reciprocity. It literally means 'courtesy demands back-and-forth.' If you want to explain why you are 送礼 (because they gave you something before), you would use this phrase.

Another interesting comparison is with 打赏 (dǎshǎng). In the modern internet era, giving 'tips' or 'virtual gifts' to live-streamers is called 打赏. While it is a form of giving, it is never called 送礼 because it implies a hierarchy (the giver is 'rewarding' the performer) rather than a social peer-to-peer relationship.

中国是一个讲究“礼尚往来”的社会，所以送礼非常普遍。 (China is a society that values reciprocity, so gift-giving is very common.)

For small, insignificant gifts, you might use the term 意思一下 (yìsi yīxià). This phrase is often used when the gift is just a token to show you haven't forgotten the occasion. For example: '不用送大礼，随便意思一下就行' (No need for a big gift, just a small token is fine). This helps lower expectations and reduce social pressure.

如果你不知道该送什么，买点水果“意思一下”也是可以的。 (If you don't know what to give, buying some fruit as a 'small token' is also acceptable.)

In summary, while 送礼 is your 'workhorse' term, understanding these alternatives allows you to navigate different levels of intimacy and formality with precision.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The traditional character for 礼 (禮) shows a vessel used in sacrificial rites. This highlights that gift-giving was originally a sacred act between humans and the divine before it became a social act between people.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /sɒŋ liː/

US /sɔŋ li/

The primary stress is on the first syllable 'Sòng', as it carries the action, followed by the object 'lǐ'.

Rhymes With

送 (sòng): 痛 (tòng), 梦 (mèng), 动 (dòng) 礼 (lǐ): 几 (jǐ), 你 (nǐ), 米 (mǐ), 起 (qǐ), 比 (bǐ), 已 (yǐ), 洗 (xǐ), 理 (lǐ)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'song' with a flat tone (1st tone) instead of falling (4th tone).
Pronouncing 'li' as 'lie' instead of 'lee'.
Failing to use the 3rd tone on 'li', making it sound like 'strength' (lì).
Treating it as one word in English rhythm instead of two distinct Chinese characters.
Confusing 'song' with 'shong' (not a standard Pinyin sound).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The characters are relatively simple and common.

Writing 3/5

The character '礼' requires attention to the radical.

Speaking 4/5

The separable verb grammar can be tricky for learners to get right in real-time.

Listening 2/5

Distinctive sounds, usually easy to pick out in context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

送 (sòng) 礼 (lǐ) 礼物 (lǐwù) 给 (gěi) 生日 (shēngrì)

Learn Next

回礼 (huílǐ) 礼尚往来 (lǐ shàng wǎng lái) 面子 (miànzi) 红包 (hóngbāo) 人情 (rénqíng)

Advanced

馈赠 (kuìzèng) 行贿 (xínghuì) 潜规则 (qiánguīzé) 物化 (wùhuà)

Grammar to Know

Separable Verbs (离合词)

送了礼 (sòng le lǐ) - GAVE a gift.

Preposition '给' for recipient

给他送礼 (gěi tā sònglǐ) - Give a gift TO him.

Measure Words with Separable Verbs

送一份大礼 (sòng yī fèn dà lǐ) - Give ONE big gift.

Aspect Marker '过' with Separable Verbs

送过礼 (sòng guò lǐ) - Have given a gift before.

Reduplication (AAB or ABAB)

送送礼 (sòng sòng lǐ) - To give some gifts (casually).

Examples by Level

我给老师送礼。

I give the teacher a gift.

Basic 'Subject + 给 + Recipient + 送礼' structure.

明天是他的生日，我要送礼。

Tomorrow is his birthday, I want to give a gift.

Future intent with '要'.

我不送礼。

I do not give gifts.

Negative form using '不'.

你送礼了吗？

Did you give a gift?

Question form with '吗'.

妈妈给奶奶送礼。

Mom gives a gift to Grandma.

Family relationship context.

送礼很好。

Giving gifts is very good.

Simple adjective description.

他送礼，我也送礼。

He gives a gift, I also give a gift.

Use of '也' for 'also'.

这是送礼吗？

Is this gift-giving?

Identifying an action.

我送了一份礼给我的邻居。

I gave a gift to my neighbor.

Separable verb with aspect marker '了' and measure word '一份'.

他送礼送得很贵。

The gift he gave was very expensive.

Degree complement structure 'V + 得'.

过年一定要送礼。

You must give gifts during the New Year.

Use of '一定要' for obligation.

我不想送礼，太麻烦了。

I don't want to give gifts; it's too much trouble.

Expressing a reason with '太...了'.

你打算送什么礼？

What gift do you plan to give?

Interrogative '什么' inserted into the separable verb.

去中国朋友家，要记得送礼。

When going to a Chinese friend's house, remember to bring a gift.

Imperative '要记得'.

他送过礼，但对方没收。

He gave a gift before, but the other party didn't accept it.

Aspect marker '过' indicating past experience.

送礼是一门学问。

Gift-giving is an art/skill.

Noun phrase '一门学问'.

为了建立好关系，他经常给客户送礼。

In order to build a good relationship, he often gives gifts to clients.

Purpose clause with '为了'.

在中国，送礼有很多讲究。

In China, there are many rules/particulars about gift-giving.

Noun use with '有很多讲究'.

他送了一份厚礼来表达谢意。

He gave a generous gift to express his gratitude.

Separable verb with adjective '厚' (generous/heavy).

我不喜欢这种强制性的送礼文化。

I don't like this compulsory gift-giving culture.

Complex noun phrase '强制性的送礼文化'.

你应该送点礼，意思一下就行。

You should give a little gift; just a small token is enough.

Use of '意思一下' to mean a token gesture.

他送礼的动机并不单纯。

His motive for giving the gift is not simple/innocent.

Attributive clause '送礼的动机'.

结婚的时候，亲戚们都会来送礼。

When getting married, all the relatives will come to give gifts.

Time clause '...的时候'.

送礼不仅是给礼物，更是给面子。

Gift-giving is not just about giving a gift; it's even more about giving 'face'.

Conjunction '不仅...更是...'.

在处理商务关系时，适当地送礼是必要的。

When handling business relationships, appropriate gift-giving is necessary.

Adverbial modifier '适当地'.

如果送礼不当，反而会引起误会。

If the gift-giving is inappropriate, it will actually cause misunderstandings.

Conditional '如果...反而...'.

他因为违规送礼受到了公司的处分。

He was disciplined by the company for violating gift-giving regulations.

Cause and effect with '因为...受到处分'.

送礼的艺术在于投其所好。

The art of gift-giving lies in catering to the recipient's likes.

Abstract noun usage; idiomatic '投其所好'.

有些官员因为收受贿赂和送礼被调查了。

Some officials were investigated for accepting bribes and gifts.

Passive structure '被调查'.

尽管他不缺钱，但你还是得送礼表示尊重。

Even though he isn't short of money, you still have to give a gift to show respect.

Concession clause '尽管...还是得...'.

这种送礼的行为在现代社会受到了一些争议。

This behavior of gift-giving has faced some controversy in modern society.

Topic-comment structure.

我们要杜绝一切形式的公款送礼。

We must put an end to all forms of gift-giving using public funds.

Formal verb '杜绝' (to put an end to).

送礼作为一种社会交换，体现了人际关系的深浅。

Gift-giving, as a form of social exchange, reflects the depth of interpersonal relationships.

Formal '作为...体现了...' structure.

他深谙送礼之道，总能送得恰到好处。

He is well-versed in the way of gift-giving and always manages to give just the right thing.

Idiomatic '深谙...之道' (well-versed in the way of).

节日送礼已经演变成了一种沉重的社交负担。

Holiday gift-giving has evolved into a heavy social burden.

Verb '演变成' (evolve into).

在某些权力机构中，送礼成了潜规则的一部分。

In certain power structures, gift-giving has become part of the 'unspoken rules'.

Use of the sociological term '潜规则' (hidden rules).

这种过度包装的送礼风气亟待扭转。

This trend of over-packaged gift-giving urgently needs to be reversed.

Formal adverb '亟待' (urgently needs to).

送礼的真正价值不在于价格，而在于那份心意。

The true value of a gift lies not in the price, but in the sentiment.

Contrastive '不在于...而在于...'.

通过送礼，他成功地化解了两人之间的尴尬。

Through gift-giving, he successfully resolved the awkwardness between them.

Prepositional phrase '通过...'.

这种互惠式的送礼行为构成了社会的润滑剂。

This reciprocal gift-giving behavior constitutes the social lubricant.

Metaphorical use of '润滑剂'.

纵观历史，送礼一直是权力博弈中不可或缺的手腕。

Looking throughout history, gift-giving has always been an indispensable tactic in the game of power.

High-level '纵观历史' (looking at history) and '不可或缺' (indispensable).

送礼行为的异化往往是腐败滋生的温床。

The alienation/distortion of gift-giving behavior is often the breeding ground for corruption.

Abstract academic terms '异化' (alienation) and '温床' (breeding ground).

他试图通过大手笔的送礼来弥补之前的过失。

He attempted to make up for his previous mistakes through lavish gift-giving.

Colloquial yet sophisticated '大手笔' (lavish/grand scale).

在儒家文化圈，送礼被赋予了极高的伦理价值。

In the Confucian cultural sphere, gift-giving is endowed with extremely high ethical value.

Passive voice '被赋予' (be endowed with).

现代消费主义对传统送礼观念进行了某种程度的解构。

Modern consumerism has, to some extent, deconstructed the traditional concepts of gift-giving.

Academic term '解构' (deconstruct).

送礼的厚薄往往暗示了送礼者对彼此关系的定位。

The 'thickness' (generosity) of a gift often hints at how the giver perceives the relationship.

Antonyms '厚薄' used as a noun for 'value'.

他那番关于送礼的言论，在社交圈引起了轩然大波。

His remarks about gift-giving caused a huge stir in social circles.

Idiom '轩然大波' (a great disturbance).

这种带有目的性的送礼，本质上是一种情感的物化。

This purposeful gift-giving is essentially an objectification of emotion.

Philosophical term '物化' (objectification).

Common Collocations

送大礼

违规送礼

登门送礼

送礼文化

送礼佳品

盲目送礼

互相送礼

送重礼

送礼技巧

给长辈送礼

Common Phrases

礼轻情意重

— The gift is light, but the sentiment is heavy. Used to say that the thought counts more than the price.

这是我自己做的，礼轻情意重，请收下。

礼尚往来

— Courtesy demands reciprocity. If you give a gift, I should give one back.

既然他送了我们，我们也得回礼，这是礼尚往来。

送礼送到心坎上

— To give a gift that truly touches the person's heart or meets their exact needs.

他这件礼物真是送礼送到心坎上了。

拿不出手

— Too embarrassing to give as a gift because it's too cheap or poor quality.

这件衣服太旧了，拿不出手送礼。

意思意思

— To give a small token just to be polite.

不用太贵，随便意思意思就行。

送礼避雷

— Avoiding 'landmines' (taboos/mistakes) when giving gifts.

看这篇攻略，教你如何送礼避雷。

厚礼相待

— To treat someone with generous gifts.

主人对客人厚礼相待。

千里送鹅毛

— Short for 'A goose feather from a thousand miles'; emphasizes the effort over the value.

他大老远跑来送礼，真是千里送鹅毛。

送礼不求人

— Giving a gift without asking for a favor in return (purely social).

我这是纯粹的送礼不求人，你别担心。

一份薄礼

— A humble way to refer to your own gift (literally 'a thin gift').

这是一份薄礼，不成敬意。

Often Confused With

送礼 vs 送客

Means 'to see a guest out.' Don't confuse 'li' (gift) with 'ke' (guest).

送礼 vs 送行

Means 'to see someone off' (at an airport or station). Both start with 'song' but have different objects.

送礼 vs 送钟

Means 'to give a clock,' which sounds like 'attending a funeral.' This is a specific type of '送礼' that you must avoid.

Idioms & Expressions

"礼多不怪"

— No one complains about too much politeness (or too many gifts).

多带点东西去吧，礼多不怪。

Informal

"投桃报李"

— To give a plum in return for a peach; to reciprocate a favor or gift.

他帮了我，我也要投桃报李，给他送点礼。

Literary

"礼尚往来"

— Reciprocity is the rule of social interaction.

中国社会讲究礼尚往来。

Neutral

"受贿行贿"

— Accepting and giving bribes.

法律严惩受贿行贿的行为。

Formal/Legal

"借花献佛"

— Presenting a gift that was actually given to you by someone else.

这盒点心是别人送我的，我借花献佛，送给你吧。

Informal

"卑辞厚礼"

— Humble words and generous gifts (often used when asking for a big favor).

他带着卑辞厚礼去求见那位专家。

Literary

"下不为例"

— Not to be taken as a precedent (often said when accepting a gift you shouldn't have).

这次的礼我收下了，但下不为例。

Neutral

"礼贤下士"

— To treat talented people with great respect and gifts (historically used for rulers).

这位领导一向礼贤下士。

Formal

"礼轻义重"

— Variation of '礼轻情意重'.

虽然只是个小挂件，但礼轻义重。

Neutral

"虚左以待"

— To leave the place of honor empty for a guest; related to the ritual of receiving gifts.

我们已经准备好了厚礼，虚左以待您的光临。

Formal

Easily Confused

送礼 vs 礼物 (lǐwù)

Both relate to gifts.

礼物 is a noun (the object); 送礼 is a verb phrase (the action). You can have a 礼物, but you perform the act of 送礼.

礼物很漂亮 (The gift is pretty) vs 我想送礼 (I want to give a gift).

送礼 vs 赠送 (zèngsòng)

Both mean giving a gift.

赠送 is more formal and often used by organizations. 送礼 is more personal and carries social weight/reciprocity.

博物馆赠送纪念品 (The museum gives souvenirs) vs 给邻居送礼 (Give a gift to neighbors).

送礼 vs 行贿 (xínghuì)

Both involve giving something of value.

行贿 is specifically illegal bribery. 送礼 is usually a legal social custom, though it can be a euphemism for bribery.

他因为行贿被捕 (He was arrested for bribery) vs 过年送礼 (Giving New Year gifts).

送礼 vs 小意思 (xiǎoyìsi)

Both used when giving gifts.

小意思 is a phrase describing the gift ('a small token'). 送礼 is the verb for the whole act.

这只是点小意思，请收下 (This is just a small token, please accept it).

送礼 vs 打赏 (dǎshǎng)

Both involve giving money/gifts.

打赏 is specifically for tipping performers or creators online. 送礼 is for social peers or elders.

给主播打赏 (Tip the streamer) vs 给老师送礼 (Give a gift to the teacher).

Sentence Patterns

Subject + 给 + Person + 送礼。

我给朋友送礼。

Subject + 给 + Person + 送了 + Measure Word + 礼。

他给我送了一份礼。

为了 + Purpose + Subject + 给 + Person + 送礼。

为了感谢他，我给他送礼。

Subject + 经常/从不 + 给 + Person + 送礼。

我们公司从不给客户送礼。

送礼不仅是...更是...。

送礼不仅是物质交换，更是情感表达。

与其说...不如说是一种送礼的行为。

这与其说是关心，不如说是一种带有目的性的送礼行为。

Subject + 把 + 礼物 + 送礼 + 给 + Person (Incorrect, use 送给 instead)

Note: Do not use '送礼' in 'ba' sentences; use '送' or '赠送'.

Subject + 忙着 + 送礼。

快过年了，大家都忙着送礼。

Word Family

Nouns

礼物 (lǐwù) - gift

礼品 (lǐpǐn) - gift item

礼盒 (lǐhé) - gift box

礼券 (lǐquàn) - gift voucher

礼仪 (lǐyí) - etiquette

Verbs

回礼 (huílǐ) - to give a return gift

收礼 (shōulǐ) - to receive a gift

赠礼 (zènglǐ) - to present a gift (formal)

谢礼 (xièlǐ) - to give a gift as thanks

Adjectives

有礼貌 (yǒu lǐmào) - polite

失礼 (shīlǐ) - impolite/rude

关系 (guānxì) - relationships

面子 (miànzi) - face/social standing

红包 (hóngbāo) - red envelope

人情 (rénqíng) - social favor/debt

客气 (kèqi) - polite/modest

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in social, business, and festive contexts.

Common Mistakes

我送礼他 (Wǒ sònglǐ tā) → 我给他送礼 (Wǒ gěi tā sònglǐ)
You cannot have a direct object (person) after '送礼'. You must use '给' to indicate the recipient.
我送礼礼物 (Wǒ sònglǐ lǐwù) → 我送礼物 (Wǒ sòng lǐwù) or 我送礼 (Wǒ sònglǐ)
Combining '送礼' and '礼物' is redundant. Use one or the other.
送礼了三次 (Sònglǐ le sān cì) → 送了三次礼 (Sòng le sān cì lǐ)
Since it's a separable verb, the frequency (three times) must be placed between '送' and '礼'.
Giving a clock as a gift. → Giving a watch or another item.
Giving a clock is a major cultural taboo because of the homophone with 'funeral'.
Using '送礼' for a bribe in a formal police report. → Using '行贿' (xínghuì).
While '送礼' can mean bribery in conversation, '行贿' is the correct legal term for a crime.

Tips

Aspect Markers

Always place '了' or '过' after '送', never after '礼'. For example: '送过礼' (Have given a gift).

Taboo: Clocks

Never give a clock. '送钟' (giving a clock) sounds like '送终' (attending a funeral). It's a major bad luck omen.

Safe Gifts

When in doubt, fruit is always a safe and respectful option for '送礼' when visiting someone.

Two Hands

Always use both hands when '送礼' (giving the gift) and when receiving one. It shows great respect.

Polite Refusal

Expect the recipient to say 'no' at first. Keep insisting politely until they accept. This is the 'gift-giving dance'.

Compliance

In corporate settings, '送礼' can be sensitive. Always check if there is a 'no-gift policy' to avoid looking like you are bribing.

Humility

When giving a gift, say '一点小意思' (just a small token) even if the gift was expensive. It shows you are humble.

Wrapping

Presentation matters. Use red or gold wrapping paper. Avoid white or black, as those are associated with funerals.

Reciprocity

If someone '送礼' to you, keep track! You will need to '回礼' (return a gift) of similar value in the future.

Measure Words

Use '份' (fèn) as the measure word for '礼'. Example: '送了一份大礼'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Sòng' as 'Sending' and 'Lǐ' as 'Little' (though it can be big!). You are 'Sending a Little' something to show respect.

Visual Association

Imagine a person carrying a red box (礼) and walking towards (送) a friend's house.

Word Web

Birthday Wedding New Year Red Envelope Fruit Basket Tea Reciprocity Guanxi

Challenge

Try to use '送礼' in a sentence that includes both a reason (为了...) and a specific person (给...).

Word Origin

The character '送' (sòng) originally meant to accompany someone who is leaving, which later expanded to 'giving' or 'sending' something. The character '礼' (lǐ) in its traditional form (禮) consists of '示' (sign/altar) and '豊' (a ritual vessel).

Original meaning: Originally, '礼' referred to religious sacrifices and rituals to the gods or ancestors. '送礼' would have meant 'performing or presenting rituals.'

Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic.

Cultural Context

Be extremely careful about the bribery connotation in professional settings. Always check company policies before engaging in '送礼' with Chinese business partners.

In the West, gift-giving is often more personal and less tied to specific social hierarchies compared to the Chinese '送礼' system.

Confucius's 'Analects' where 'Li' is discussed extensively as the basis of society. The movie 'The Joy Luck Club' which depicts the complexities of Chinese social expectations. Modern Chinese 'Anti-Corruption' news reports frequently mentioning '违规送礼'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Lunar New Year

给长辈送礼
送红包
年货送礼
礼轻情意重

Weddings

送礼金
送一份厚礼
回礼
新婚贺礼

Business Meetings

给客户送礼
商务送礼
土特产送礼
违规送礼

Visiting Friends

登门送礼
带点礼物
意思一下
不成敬意

Birthdays

生日送礼
选购礼品
送份惊喜
祝寿送礼

Conversation Starters

"你觉得在中国送礼最难的地方是什么？ (What do you think is the hardest part about giving gifts in China?)"

"过年的时候，你一般会给家人送什么礼？ (During the New Year, what gifts do you usually give your family?)"

"你收到的最难忘的礼物是什么？ (What is the most memorable gift you have ever received?)"

"在你的国家，送礼有哪些特别的禁忌吗？ (In your country, are there any special taboos for gift-giving?)"

"你认为送礼的价格重要，还是心意重要？ (Do you think the price of a gift is important, or the sentiment?)"

Journal Prompts

描述一次你给别人送礼的经历。你当时是怎么选择礼物的？对方的反应如何？

讨论一下现代社会中‘送礼文化’的利与弊。你认为我们应该保留这种传统吗？

如果你要给一位中国老师送礼，你会选择什么？请说明你的理由并考虑文化因素。

写一段关于‘礼尚往来’的感悟。你觉得这种相互送礼的习惯对人际关系有什么影响？

想象你是一家公司的经理，请起草一份关于‘禁止违规送礼’的通知。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not necessarily. While it's usually a friendly social gesture, in business or government contexts, it can imply an attempt to gain unfair influence (bribery). Context is key.

No, that is grammatically incorrect. You must say '我给你送礼' (I give a gift to you). '送礼' cannot take a direct object like 'you' after it.

Fruit (especially oranges or apples), high-quality tea, or imported chocolates are usually safe and appreciated '送礼' choices.

Because of the complex rules regarding 'face' and 'reciprocity.' You have to find a gift that isn't too cheap (losing face) but isn't too expensive (burdening the receiver).

Yes, especially in the form of '红包' (red envelopes) at weddings or during the Lunar New Year. This is a very common form of '送礼'.

Avoid clocks, umbrellas, sharp objects (like knives), and green hats. Also, avoid the number 4 in any set of gifts.

You should say '我已经送过礼了' (Wǒ yǐjīng sòngguò lǐ le). Notice the '过' goes after '送'.

In traditional Chinese culture, it's more polite to open it after the giver leaves. However, with close friends or younger people, this is changing.

It means 'courtesy demands reciprocity.' It’s the social rule that if you receive a gift, you should eventually give one back.

Yes, it’s a bit formal for a child, but it’s technically correct. Usually, for children, we might just say '送礼物'.