When you meet someone, it's polite to greet them. In Chinese, a common way to do this is with the verb “问好” (wènhǎo). It literally means "ask good," but it functions as "to say hello" or "to send regards."
You can use “问好” to greet people you know, like friends or family. For example, if you want to say hello to your teacher, you could say “跟老师问好” (gēn lǎoshī wènhǎo).
It's a useful phrase to remember for everyday interactions and shows respect. You can also use it to send greetings from someone else, like "请替我向她问好" (qǐng tì wǒ xiàng tā wènhǎo), meaning "Please send my regards to her."
When you encounter the Chinese phrase "问好" (wèn hǎo), you'll find it incredibly practical in everyday conversations. It's a simple yet versatile verb that directly translates to "to say hello" or "to send regards." Think of it as a polite way to greet someone or to convey good wishes to another person through a third party.
This phrase is particularly useful when you want to express greetings beyond a simple "你好" (nǐ hǎo). For example, if you're talking to a friend and want to ask them to pass on your greetings to their family, "问好" is exactly what you'd use. It demonstrates a thoughtful and respectful way of interacting in Chinese.
When you want to greet someone in Chinese or send your regards, the verb to use is 问好 (wènhǎo).
You can use it quite broadly. For instance, if you want to say "hello" to someone on behalf of another person, you'd use 问好.
It's more formal than just saying 你好 (nǐhǎo).
You can also use it when you're checking in on someone's well-being, like a polite way of asking "how are you doing?" without literally translating it.
When you want to greet someone in Chinese or send your best wishes, the verb 问好 (wènhǎo) is a perfect choice. It literally means 'ask good' but functions as 'to say hello' or 'to send regards'.
You can use it in various situations. For example, if you meet a friend, you can simply say 问好 to them, meaning 'hello'. If you want to send your regards to someone through another person, you would also use 问好.
It's a polite and versatile phrase that's great for showing respect and friendliness. Remember, it's more formal than just saying '你好 (nǐhǎo)' and carries a nuance of good wishes.
When using 问好 (wèn hǎo), you are directly expressing the action of greeting someone or extending good wishes. It implies a direct verbal or written act of communication where you are initiating a friendly exchange or sending your regards through someone else.
For example, if you say “我向你妈妈问好” (wǒ xiàng nǐ māma wèn hǎo), it means “I send my regards to your mother,” or more directly, “I say hello to your mother.”
It’s a straightforward and polite way to acknowledge someone’s presence or to convey a greeting indirectly.
When you want to express the act of greeting someone or sending your regards, the verb 问好 (wènhǎo) is a perfect choice. It literally means 'to ask good,' and is commonly used to convey politeness and care.
For example, if you want to 'say hello to your teacher,' you would say 向老师问好 (xiàng lǎoshī wènhǎo). If you're 'sending your regards to a friend,' you could use 代我向你的朋友问好 (dài wǒ xiàng nǐ de péngyǒu wènhǎo). It’s a versatile and respectful way to connect with others.
§ What 问好 Means
The Chinese verb 问好 (wènhǎo) directly translates to “to ask good” or “to inquire about well-being.” In practical terms, it means “to say hello” or “to send regards.” It’s a very common and versatile phrase you’ll hear and use frequently in daily Chinese conversations.
- Definition
- To say hello; to send regards.
Think of it as a polite way to acknowledge someone’s presence or to express good wishes. It’s more than just a simple “hi”; it carries a nuance of checking in on someone or showing respect.
§ When to Use 问好
You can use 问好 in a variety of situations. Here are some common scenarios:
Greeting someone directly: While you can just say “你好 (nǐhǎo),” adding 问好 can make it sound a bit more formal or show a little more thought, especially when greeting someone you haven't seen in a while or someone older than you. However, it's more often used in the context of sending regards rather than as a direct, casual 'hello'.
Sending regards through someone else: This is where 问好 truly shines. If you’re talking to a friend and want to say hello to their family, you’d use 问好. It’s a polite and indirect way of extending your greetings.
In written communication: When writing emails or letters, 问好 is perfect for conveying polite greetings to individuals or groups.
In formal settings: When speaking to superiors, elders, or in a business context, using 问好 shows respect and good manners.
§ Examples of 问好 in Use
请替我向你父母问好。
Please send my regards to your parents. (Literally: Please for me to your parents ask good.) This is a very common and polite way to ask someone to convey your greetings.
我给你老板问好。
I said hello to your boss. (Literally: I to your boss ask good.) Here, the action of saying hello has already happened.
春节的时候，我给所有亲戚朋友都问好了。
During Chinese New Year, I sent regards to all my relatives and friends. (Literally: Chinese New Year’s time, I to all relatives friends all asked good.) This shows a broader application of sending good wishes during a festive period.
见到他，请代我向他问好。
When you see him, please say hello to him for me. (Literally: See him, please on behalf of me to him ask good.) This is another way to ask someone to relay your greetings.
§ Common Phrases with 问好
Here are some useful phrases you can learn:
问候 (wènhòu): This is a noun form, meaning “greeting” or “salutation.” You might hear “送上我的问候” (sòng shàng wǒ de wènhòu), meaning “send my greetings.” While similar, 问好 is the verb for the action of greeting, and 问候 is the greeting itself.
问早 (wènzǎo): To say good morning.
问安 (wèn'ān): A more formal and sometimes older way to ask about someone’s well-being, often used for elders or superiors.
While these exist, 问好 is your go-to general verb for saying hello or sending regards in most everyday situations.
Mastering 问好 will make your Chinese sound more natural and polite. It shows you understand the nuances of social interaction in Chinese culture. So go ahead, start sending your regards!
§ Using 问好 Directly as "Hello"
One of the most common errors English speakers make with 问好 (wènhǎo) is trying to use it as a direct translation for "hello." While 问好 literally means "to ask good" or "to inquire about well-being," it's not a greeting you'd use when meeting someone. You wouldn't walk up to a friend and say "问好!" It sounds unnatural and a bit formal, like saying "I send you my regards!" when you just want to say "Hi!"
- DEFINITION
- To say hello; to send regards.
Instead, for a simple "hello," you should use 你好 (nǐhǎo).
你好！ (Nǐhǎo!) – Hello!
§ Forgetting the Object of 问好
问好 (wènhǎo) is almost always used with an object, meaning you're saying hello to someone or sending regards to someone. You can't just use it in isolation in most cases. You need to specify who is receiving the greeting or regards.
Common constructions include:
- 向…问好 (xiàng…wènhǎo) – to say hello to someone / send regards to someone
- 替我向…问好 (tì wǒ xiàng…wènhǎo) – please say hello to someone for me / please send my regards to someone
请替我向你父母问好。(Qǐng tì wǒ xiàng nǐ fùmǔ wènhǎo.) – Please say hello to your parents for me.
他让我向您问好。(Tā ràng wǒ xiàng nín wènhǎo.) – He asked me to say hello to you.
§ Confusing 问好 with "Asking a Question"
Because 问 (wèn) means "to ask," some learners might mistakenly think 问好 (wènhǎo) involves asking a question about someone's well-being, similar to "How are you?" While it touches on well-being, it's not a question. It's an act of conveying greetings or good wishes.
When you want to ask "How are you?" you should use:
- 你好吗？(Nǐhǎo ma?) – How are you? (general)
- 你最近怎么样？(Nǐ zuìjìn zěnmeyàng?) – How have you been recently?
你好吗？ (Nǐhǎo ma?) – How are you?
§ Using 问好 in Highly Casual Settings
While not strictly a mistake, using 问好 (wènhǎo) in very casual, informal situations with close friends can sometimes feel a bit overly polite or slightly stiff. It's not wrong, but there might be more natural, informal ways to convey similar sentiments.
For example, with very close friends, a simple 你好 (nǐhǎo), or just calling their name, or asking "吃了吗？ (Chī le ma?)" (Have you eaten yet? – a common informal greeting) might be more appropriate than explicitly saying you're "sending regards."
吃了吗？ (Chī le ma?) – Have you eaten yet? (Informal greeting)
§ Understanding 问好
The Chinese word 问好 (wènhǎo) is a verb that means 'to say hello' or 'to send regards'. It's a common and practical phrase to know for everyday interactions.
- Definition
- To say hello; to send regards.
You'll often hear it used in situations where you want to express greetings or well wishes to someone, especially when you're speaking about someone else. It's more formal than just saying '你好' (nǐhǎo) directly.
请你替我向你家人问好。
- Translation hint
- Please send my regards to your family.
§ 问好 vs. 你好
The key difference between 问好 and 你好 (nǐhǎo) is who is doing the greeting:
- 你好 (nǐhǎo): This is the direct way to say 'hello' to someone. You use it when you are greeting a person face-to-face or directly addressing them.
- 问好 (wènhǎo): This is used when you are *sending* greetings or saying 'hello' *through* someone else. It implies a secondary action of greeting, not a direct one.
我见到他的时候会替你向他问好。
- Translation hint
- When I see him, I will say hello to him for you.
你好，好久不见！
- Translation hint
- Hello, long time no see!
You wouldn't typically say '我问好' (wǒ wènhǎo) to directly greet someone, as it would sound unnatural. Instead, you'd say '你好' (nǐhǎo).
§ When to use 问好
Use 问好 when:
- You want to ask someone to convey your greetings to a third person.
- You are talking about the act of greeting someone (e.g., 'he went to greet his teacher').
- You are writing a formal letter or email and want to send regards to someone.
他一进门就去向老师问好了。
- Translation hint
- As soon as he entered, he went to greet the teacher.
§ Similar Phrases
While 问好 is versatile, here are some related phrases and when to use them:
- 打招呼 (dǎ zhāohu): This also means 'to greet' or 'to say hello', but it's more general and can be used for both direct and indirect greetings. It's often used for casual encounters.
他每次见到我都会主动打招呼。
- Translation hint
- Every time he sees me, he will take the initiative to greet me.
- 问候 (wènhòu): This is a more formal way to 'send regards' or 'express greetings', often used in written communication or when conveying respect. It carries a slightly more profound sense of well-wishing than 问好.
谨向您致以节日的问候。
- Translation hint
- I hereby extend my holiday greetings to you.
How Formal Is It?
"向您的家人问候。 (Xiàng nín de jiārén wènhòu.) (Send regards to your family.)"
"我给你妈妈问好。 (Wǒ gěi nǐ māma wènhǎo.) (I'll say hello to your mom for you.)"
"见面时打个招呼。 (Jiànmiàn shí dǎ ge zhāohu.) (Say hi when you meet.)"
"见到老师说你好。 (Jiàndào lǎoshī shuō nǐ hǎo.) (Say hi to the teacher when you see them.)"
"嘿，最近怎么样？ (Hēi, zuìjìn zěnme yàng?) (Hey, what's up recently?)"
Fun Fact
This is a very direct and common way to greet someone in Chinese, reflecting a practical approach to social interactions.
Pronunciation Guide
- Incorrect tone for wèn (should be falling tone)
- Incorrect tone for hǎo (should be falling-rising tone)
Difficulty Rating
short
short
short
short
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
问好 (wènhǎo) can be used as a verb directly followed by the person or people you are greeting. This is a common and straightforward way to express greetings.
我需要去跟王老师问好。 (Wǒ xūyào qù gēn Wáng lǎoshī wènhǎo.) I need to go say hello to Teacher Wang.
It can be used in the structure '向...问好' (xiàng...wènhǎo) to specifically indicate who the regards are being sent to. This construction emphasizes the direction of the greeting.
他让我向你问好。 (Tā ràng wǒ xiàng nǐ wènhǎo.) He asked me to send his regards to you.
问好 (wènhǎo) can be used as a noun, meaning 'greetings' or 'regards'. In this case, it often appears with verbs like '送' (sòng, to send) or '带' (dài, to bring).
请代我向你的父母问好。 (Qǐng dài wǒ xiàng nǐ de fùmǔ wènhǎo.) Please give my regards to your parents.
When asking about someone's well-being, you can use '问好' in a question, often with '吗' (ma) at the end, though this is less common than other forms of asking about well-being.
你问好你的家人了吗？ (Nǐ wènhǎo nǐ de jiārén le ma?) Did you send regards to your family?
The phrase '互相问好' (hùxiāng wènhǎo) means 'to greet each other' or 'to send regards to each other', indicating a mutual action.
他们见面时互相问好。 (Tāmen jiànmiàn shí hùxiāng wènhǎo.) They greeted each other when they met.
Examples by Level
我 问好 老师。
I say hello to the teacher.
你 问好 妈妈 吗？
Do you say hello to mom?
他 问好 朋友。
He says hello to a friend.
我们 问好 爸爸 和 妈妈。
We say hello to dad and mom.
你 好， 我 来 问好。
Hello, I came to say hello.
她 问好 哥哥。
She says hello to older brother.
请 问好。
Please say hello.
大家 问好。
Everyone says hello.
我给你妈妈问好。
I say hello to your mom. / I send regards to your mom.
她让我代她向你问好。
She asked me to say hello to you on her behalf.
见到老师，我们应该主动问好。
When we see a teacher, we should proactively say hello.
别忘了给你的朋友们问好。
Don't forget to say hello to your friends.
新年的时候，大家都会互相问好。
During the New Year, everyone greets each other.
他来我们家做客，向大家问好。
He came to our house as a guest and greeted everyone.
邮件里，他特意向我问好。
In the email, he specifically sent his regards to me.
每次见面，他们都会热情地问好。
Every time they meet, they will enthusiastically say hello.
见到李老师，请替我向他问好。
When you see Teacher Li, please send him my regards.
每次打电话回家，我都会和父母问好。
Every time I call home, I say hello to my parents.
他在信的末尾向所有朋友问好。
He sent his regards to all his friends at the end of the letter.
我刚到办公室，同事们都向我问好。
As soon as I arrived at the office, my colleagues all greeted me.
过年的时候，我们会给长辈拜年问好。
During the New Year, we pay New Year's greetings and send regards to elders.
他走上前去，主动和新邻居问好。
He walked forward and proactively greeted the new neighbors.
请代我向您的家人问好。
Please give my regards to your family.
我们很久没见了，所以一见面就互相问好。
We haven't seen each other for a long time, so as soon as we met, we greeted each other.
每次见到他，我都会主动上前问好。
Every time I see him, I take the initiative to go up and say hello.
主动 (zhǔdòng) means 'to take the initiative'.
她写信向远方的亲戚问好，表达思念之情。
She wrote a letter to her distant relatives to send her regards and express her missing them.
表达 (biǎodá) means 'to express', 思念之情 (sīniàn zhī qíng) means 'feelings of missing someone'.
请代我向您的家人问好，祝他们身体健康。
Please say hello to your family for me and wish them good health.
代 (dài) means 'on behalf of', 身体健康 (shēntǐ jiànkāng) means 'good health'.
我习惯在会议开始前向所有与会者问好。
I am accustomed to greeting all attendees before the meeting starts.
与会者 (yùhuìzhě) means 'attendees'.
虽然很久没见，但见到老朋友我还是热情地问好。
Although we haven't seen each other for a long time, I still greeted my old friend warmly.
热情地 (rèqíng de) means 'warmly'.
他发信息问候了所有毕业的同学，保持联系。
He sent messages to greet all his graduating classmates, keeping in touch.
问候 (wènhòu) is a more formal way to say 'send regards'.
在异国他乡，听到熟悉的乡音，总会让人忍不住问好。
In a foreign land, hearing a familiar local accent always makes people unable to resist saying hello.
异国他乡 (yìguó tāxiāng) means 'a foreign land', 忍不住 (rěnbuzhù) means 'can't help but'.
她非常懂礼貌，见到长辈都会主动上前问好。
She is very polite; she always takes the initiative to go up and say hello when she sees elders.
懂礼貌 (dǒng lǐmào) means 'polite', 长辈 (zhǎngbèi) means 'elders'.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
见到他请代我问好。
Please say hello to him for me when you see him.
他向老师问好。
He greeted the teacher.
他们见面时互相问好。
They greeted each other when they met.
别忘了给你的父母问好。
Don't forget to send regards to your parents.
他发短信向朋友问好。
He sent a text message to greet his friend.
在新年，我们都会给长辈问好。
During New Year, we all greet our elders.
她写了一封信向远方的亲戚问好。
She wrote a letter to send regards to her distant relatives.
每天早上他都会和邻居问好。
Every morning he greets his neighbors.
请问好你的家人。
Please give my regards to your family.
他们通过视频电话互相问好。
They greeted each other via video call.
Often Confused With
This means 'interrogative sentence' or 'question sentence', not related to greeting.
This means 'to ask for directions', completely different meaning.
This means 'to ask a question', not related to greetings.
Grammar Patterns
Idioms & Expressions
"跟...问好 (gēn... wènhǎo)"
Say hello to...
我替我家人跟您问好。 (Wǒ tì wǒ jiārén gēn nín wènhǎo.) - I say hello to you on behalf of my family.
neutral"向...问好 (xiàng... wènhǎo)"
Send regards to...
请代我向您的父母问好。 (Qǐng dài wǒ xiàng nín de fùmǔ wènhǎo.) - Please send my regards to your parents.
formal"互相问好 (hùxiāng wènhǎo)"
Greet each other
他们见面时互相问好。 (Tāmen jiànmiàn shí hùxiāng wènhǎo.) - They greeted each other when they met.
neutral"问候 (wènhòu)"
Greet; send greetings (more formal than 问好)
他向大家表示问候。 (Tā xiàng dàjiā biǎoshì wènhòu.) - He extended greetings to everyone.
formal"打招呼 (dǎ zhāohū)"
Say hello; greet (more common in daily conversation)
我一进门就跟他打招呼了。 (Wǒ yī jìn mén jiù gēn tā dǎ zhāohū le.) - I said hello to him as soon as I entered the door.
informal"问个好 (wèn ge hǎo)"
Say a quick hello
我去跟他问个好。 (Wǒ qù gēn tā wèn ge hǎo.) - I'll go say a quick hello to him.
informal"致以问候 (zhì yǐ wènhòu)"
Extend greetings (very formal)
我谨向各位致以诚挚的问候。 (Wǒ jǐn xiàng gèwèi zhì yǐ chéngzhì de wènhòu.) - I extend my sincere greetings to all of you.
formal"给...捎个好 (gěi... shāo ge hǎo)"
Send greetings to someone (via someone else)
如果你见到他，替我给他捎个好。 (Rúguǒ nǐ jiàndào tā, tì wǒ gěi tā shāo ge hǎo.) - If you see him, say hello to him for me.
informal"寒暄 (hánxuān)"
Exchange conventional greetings; make small talk
我们只是寒暄了几句。 (Wǒmen zhǐshì hánxuān le jǐ jù.) - We just exchanged a few pleasantries.
neutral"慰问 (wèiwèn)"
Express sympathy; extend regards to someone in difficulty
我们去医院慰问了受伤的同事。 (Wǒmen qù yīyuàn wèiwèn le shòushāng de tóngshì.) - We went to the hospital to express our regards to our injured colleague.
formalEasily Confused
Both '问好' and '问候' relate to greeting someone. Learners might struggle with when to use each.
'问好' is more casual and directly means 'to say hello'. '问候' is a bit more formal and can mean 'to send regards' or 'to extend greetings', often implying a slightly longer message or a message on behalf of someone else.
他让我向你问好。 (Tā ràng wǒ xiàng nǐ wènhǎo.) - He asked me to say hello to you. 请代我向你父母问候。 (Qǐng dài wǒ xiàng nǐ fùmǔ wènhòu.) - Please send my regards to your parents.
This is the most basic greeting. Learners might wonder if '问好' is a synonym.
'你好' is a direct greeting, like 'hello'. '问好' is an action, 'to say hello'. You can '说你好' (shuō nǐhǎo - to say 'hello'), which is essentially '问好'.
我们互相问好。 (Wǒmen hùxiāng wènhǎo.) - We greeted each other. 见到她时，我说你好。 (Jiàndào tā shí, wǒ shuō nǐhǎo.) - When I saw her, I said hello.
Both mean to greet someone.
'打招呼' is a more general term for greeting, which can include waving, nodding, or saying 'hello'. '问好' specifically refers to verbally saying hello or sending regards.
他见到我时，向我打招呼。 (Tā jiàndào wǒ shí, xiàng wǒ dǎ zhāohū.) - He greeted me when he saw me. 我给我朋友的妈妈问好。 (Wǒ gěi wǒ péngyǒu de māma wènhǎo.) - I said hello to my friend's mom.
It sounds similar and is also a form of well-wishing.
'祝好' means 'wish you well' or 'best wishes', usually at the end of a conversation or letter. '问好' is about initiating or sending a greeting.
祝你一切都好！ (Zhù nǐ yīqiè dōu hǎo!) - Wish you all the best! 他叫我给你问好。 (Tā jiào wǒ gěi nǐ wènhǎo.) - He asked me to say hello to you.
This word directly relates to greetings.
'问候语' is a noun meaning 'greeting words' or 'greetings'. '问好' is a verb meaning 'to say hello' or 'to send regards'.
请给我写一些问候语。 (Qǐng gěi wǒ xiě yīxiē wènhòuyǔ.) - Please write some greeting words for me. 我想给他问好。 (Wǒ xiǎng gěi tā wènhǎo.) - I want to say hello to him.
Sentence Patterns
A 问好。
他问好。(Tā wènhǎo.) - He says hello.
A 问 B 好。
我问老师好。(Wǒ wèn lǎoshī hǎo.) - I say hello to the teacher.
A 向 B 问好。
他向你问好。(Tā xiàng nǐ wènhǎo.) - He says hello to you.
A 给 B 问好。
请你替我给他问好。(Qǐng nǐ tì wǒ gěi tā wènhǎo.) - Please say hello to him for me.
A 替 B 问 C 好。
请你替我问你妈妈好。(Qǐng nǐ tì wǒ wèn nǐ māma hǎo.) - Please say hello to your mom for me.
A 问候 B。
他问候了所有朋友。(Tā wènhòule suǒyǒu péngyǒu.) - He greeted all his friends. (Note: 问候 is a more formal synonym of 问好)
A 问好 的时候...
她问好的时候总是很热情。(Tā wènhǎo de shíhou zǒng shì hěn rèqíng.) - She is always very warm when she says hello.
A 问 B 好，并且...
他问我好，并且问我最近怎么样。(Tā wèn wǒ hǎo, bìngqiě wèn wǒ zuìjìn zěnme yàng.) - He said hello to me and asked how I had been recently.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
How to Use It
When 问好 (wèn hǎo) is used, it often implies a more formal or intentional act of greeting, beyond a simple 'hello'. You can use it to talk about greeting someone directly, or sending your regards to someone through another person.
Examples:
1. 我去给他问好。 (Wǒ qù gěi tā wènhǎo.) - I'll go say hello to him.
2. 请替我向你父母问好。 (Qǐng tì wǒ xiàng nǐ fùmǔ wènhǎo.) - Please send my regards to your parents.
3. 见到老师要问好。 (Jiàndào lǎoshī yào wènhǎo.) - You should say hello when you see your teacher.
A common mistake is to overuse 问好 in situations where a simple 你好 (nǐ hǎo - hello) or 喂 (wèi - hey/hello on phone) would be more appropriate. 问好 is not typically used for a casual, passing greeting. For instance, you wouldn't usually say 问好 to a stranger you briefly pass on the street. Think of it as a slightly more deliberate or respectful greeting.
Tips
Basic Greeting
The simplest way to use 问好 is to say someone is 'saying hello' or 'sending their regards'. Think of it as a polite gesture.
Active Use
When you want to express that you are saying hello to someone, you can use 我向你问好 (wǒ xiàng nǐ wènhǎo), meaning 'I say hello to you'.
Passive Use
If someone asks you to pass on their greetings, you can say 他让我向你问好 (tā ràng wǒ xiàng nǐ wènhǎo), meaning 'He asked me to say hello to you'.
Contextual Greeting
It's often used when greeting someone you haven't seen in a while, or when sending good wishes to someone through a third party. It's more than just a quick 'hi'; it implies well-wishing.
No Direct Translation for 'How are you?'
While it's about greetings, 问好 itself doesn't directly translate to 'How are you?'. For 'How are you?', you'd typically use 你好吗？ (nǐ hǎo ma?). 问好 is about the act of greeting.
Formal and Informal
问好 can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It's a versatile term.
Respectful Greeting
Using 问好, especially when addressing elders or superiors, shows respect and politeness in Chinese culture.
Greeting in Letters/Emails
In written communication, you might see 问好 used to send regards. For example, 祝你一切都好，并向你问好 (zhù nǐ yīqiè dōu hǎo, bìng xiàng nǐ wènhǎo), meaning 'Wish you all the best and send you my regards'.
More than 'Hello'
Don't just think of 问好 as 'hello'. It carries a stronger nuance of 'sending good wishes' or 'expressing concern'. It's a deeper form of greeting.
Common Phrases
Memorize common phrases like 我替他向你问好 (wǒ tì tā xiàng nǐ wènhǎo) - 'I greet you on his behalf' or 见到你很高兴，向你问好 (jiàndào nǐ hěn gāoxìng, xiàng nǐ wènhǎo) - 'It's nice to see you, saying hello to you'.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of '问' (wèn) as 'ask' and '好' (hǎo) as 'good.' So, you're 'asking good' or asking if someone is good, which is a way to say hello.
Visual Association
Imagine someone bowing slightly and saying 'wènhǎo' to you, with a thought bubble above their head that says 'Are you good?'
Word Web
Challenge
Try using '问好' when talking about greeting someone or sending regards. For instance, describe how you greet your friends or what you say to your family when you're leaving.
Word Origin
问 (wèn) means 'to ask' or 'to inquire', and 好 (hǎo) means 'good' or 'well'.
Original meaning: The combination literally means 'to ask if someone is good/well'.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic (Chinese)Cultural Context
When Chinese people “问好” (wènhǎo), they're not just saying a polite hello; they're also subtly checking in on your well-being. This is a common and important part of maintaining good social relationships. It's considered respectful to initiate this greeting, especially with elders or those you haven't seen in a while.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYou use 问好 (wèn hǎo) when you want to express the act of greeting someone or sending regards to someone. It's a verb, so it describes an action.
No, you cannot. 你好 (nǐ hǎo) means "hello" and is a direct greeting. 问好 (wèn hǎo) means "to say hello" or "to send regards." Think of it like the difference between saying "hello" and saying "to say hello" in English. You wouldn't say "I will hello to him."
You can use it like this: 他让我跟你问好。 (Tā ràng wǒ gēn nǐ wèn hǎo.) - He asked me to say hello to you. Or: 我替我妈妈跟你问好。 (Wǒ tì wǒ māma gēn nǐ wèn hǎo.) - I'll say hello to you on behalf of my mom.
It's pretty neutral. You can use it in both formal and informal contexts. It's more about the act of conveying a greeting than the greeting itself.
No, you would use 你好 (nǐ hǎo) or 您好 (nín hǎo) for a direct greeting. 问好 (wèn hǎo) is for talking about the act of greeting or sending someone's regards.
问好 (wèn hǎo) specifically means to say hello or send regards. 打招呼 (dǎ zhāohū) is more general and means to greet someone in any way – it could be waving, nodding, or saying hello. So, 问好 is a type of 打招呼.
Not directly. While you are sending regards, 问好 (wèn hǎo) doesn't directly ask "How are you?" For that, you'd use 你好吗？ (nǐ hǎo ma?) or 您身体好吗？ (nín shēntǐ hǎo ma?).
You can say 谢谢！ (Xièxie!) - Thank you! Or 替我谢谢他。 (Tì wǒ xièxie tā.) - Please thank him for me.
The character 问 (wèn) means "to ask," but in the context of 问好 (wèn hǎo), it means "to ask about someone's well-being" or "to send greetings." So, it's not asking a direct question in the way "What's your name?" is.
替我跟他说声你好。 (Tì wǒ gēn tā shuō shēng nǐ hǎo.) - Say hello to him for me. This is also a very common and natural way to express it, often interchangeable with using 问好 (wèn hǎo) in this context.
Test Yourself 108 questions
Listen and understand how someone asks 'How are you?'
Listen and understand 'Good morning!'
Listen and understand 'I came to say hello.'
Read this aloud:
你好
Focus: nǐ hǎo
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
再见
Focus: zài jiàn
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
您好
Focus: nín hǎo
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
You see your friend in the morning. How would you tell them you said hello to them?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我向朋友问好。
Your mother asks you to say hello to your aunt. How would you tell your mother you will do it?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我会替你向阿姨问好。
You are talking to a new colleague. How would you say you want to send your regards to their family?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
请代我向你家人问好。
小明见到王老师，他会做什么？
Read this passage:
小明见到王老师，他会做什么？
小明见到王老师，他会做什么？
The passage asks what Xiao Ming will do when he sees Teacher Wang. The most appropriate action is to say hello.
The passage asks what Xiao Ming will do when he sees Teacher Wang. The most appropriate action is to say hello.
妈妈说：'请你向奶奶问好。' 这句话是什么意思？
Read this passage:
妈妈说：'请你向奶奶问好。' 这句话是什么意思？
妈妈说：'请你向奶奶问好。' 这句话是什么意思？
'问好' means to say hello or send regards, so '请你向奶奶问好' means 'Please say hello to Grandma.'
'问好' means to say hello or send regards, so '请你向奶奶问好' means 'Please say hello to Grandma.'
每天早上，丽丽都会向她的邻居问好。这说明丽丽是一个怎样的人？
Read this passage:
每天早上，丽丽都会向她的邻居问好。这说明丽丽是一个怎样的人？
每天早上，丽丽都会向她的邻居问好。这说明丽丽是一个怎样的人？
Saying hello to neighbors every morning indicates that Lili is polite.
Saying hello to neighbors every morning indicates that Lili is polite.
The correct order is 'subject + prepositional phrase + verb'.
The correct order starts with 'please' then 'for me' then 'to whom' then the verb.
The structure 'subject + and + noun + verb' is used to show mutual action.
她每天早上都和邻居__。
The sentence means 'She every morning with neighbors ___.' '问好' (wènhǎo) means 'to say hello', which fits the context of greeting neighbors.
请你帮我跟李老师__。
The sentence means 'Please help me to ___ Teacher Li.' '问好' (wènhǎo) means 'to send regards' or 'to say hello', which is appropriate when asking someone to convey greetings.
见到新同学，你应该主动去和他们__。
The sentence means 'When you see new classmates, you should proactively go and ___ them.' '问好' (wènhǎo) means 'to say hello', which is a good way to greet new people.
他给我发了消息，向我__。
The sentence means 'He sent me a message, ___ me.' '问好' (wènhǎo) means 'to send regards', which fits the context of a message sent to greet someone.
孩子们很有礼貌，见到长辈都会__。
The sentence means 'Children are very polite, when they see elders, they all will ___.' '问好' (wènhǎo) means 'to say hello' or 'to greet', which is a polite action towards elders.
出国后，我常常给家人打电话__。
The sentence means 'After going abroad, I often call my family to ___.' '问好' (wènhǎo) means 'to send regards' or 'to say hello', which is common when calling family from afar.
Which of these situations would you use '问好'?
'问好' means to say hello or send regards, so it's used when greeting someone.
What is the best translation for '他向他的朋友问好'?
The phrase '向...问好' means 'to greet someone' or 'to say hello to someone'.
If you want to send your regards to someone's family, which word would be most appropriate?
'问好' can also mean to send regards.
You can use '问好' to say goodbye to someone.
'问好' is used for greeting or sending regards, not for saying goodbye.
When you meet someone new, you can use '问好' as a greeting.
'问好' is a common way to say hello or greet someone, including new acquaintances.
It is impolite to use '问好' when addressing an elder.
Using '问好' to an elder is a polite way to greet them or send your regards.
Imagine you're meeting a new Chinese friend. Write a simple sentence to say hello.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你好，我想问好。
You want to send your regards to your friend's family. How would you express that simply?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
请代我向你的家人问好。
Your teacher is leaving for a trip. Write a short message wishing them well.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
老师，祝您旅途愉快，请代我向您的家人问好。
小明想做什么？ (What does Xiao Ming want to do?)
Read this passage:
小明给他的朋友发了消息，想向他的家人问好。 (Xiao Ming sent a message to his friend, wanting to send regards to his family.)
小明想做什么？ (What does Xiao Ming want to do?)
文章中明确提到小明“想向他的家人问好”。
文章中明确提到小明“想向他的家人问好”。
老师希望学生们做什么？ (What does the teacher hope the students will do?)
Read this passage:
老师在课上说：“大家要互相问好。” (The teacher said in class: "Everyone should say hello to each other.")
老师希望学生们做什么？ (What does the teacher hope the students will do?)
老师的话是“大家要互相问好”，直接指出了学生的行为。
老师的话是“大家要互相问好”，直接指出了学生的行为。
说话者见到老朋友的第一件事是什么？ (What is the first thing the speaker does when seeing old friends?)
Read this passage:
见到老朋友，我总是喜欢先问好。 (When I see old friends, I always like to say hello first.)
说话者见到老朋友的第一件事是什么？ (What is the first thing the speaker does when seeing old friends?)
句子中提到“我总是喜欢先问好”，表明这是第一件事。
句子中提到“我总是喜欢先问好”，表明这是第一件事。
Choose the best sentence to say "Please send my regards to your family."
The structure '请你替我向…问好' is the correct and most natural way to express 'Please send my regards to…'.
Which sentence correctly uses '问好' to describe someone greeting their colleagues?
The preposition '向' (xiàng) is often used with '问好' to indicate 'to whom' the greeting is directed. '给' (gěi) is generally not used in this context.
What is the most appropriate response if someone says "请替我向王老师问好" (Please send my regards to Teacher Wang)?
This response means 'Okay, I will.' It confirms that you will carry out the request to send regards.
You can use '问好' to directly ask 'How are you?'
'问好' means 'to say hello' or 'to send regards,' not to ask 'How are you?'. For 'How are you?', you would typically say '你好吗?' or '你怎么样?'
It is common to use '问好' when greeting a group of people, for example, "和大家问好" (greet everyone).
'和大家问好' is a very common and natural way to say 'hello everyone' or 'greet everyone' in Chinese.
If you want to tell someone to say hello to their friend, you can say "你问好你的朋友" directly.
While understandable, a more natural and common phrasing would be "请你替我向你的朋友问好" (Please send my regards to your friend) or "你和你的朋友问好" (You greet your friend). Direct '你问好你的朋友' sounds a bit less natural in everyday conversation.
Imagine you just met a new Chinese friend. Write a short message to them introducing yourself and saying hello.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你好！我叫小明，很高兴认识你。
You are writing an email to a Chinese colleague you haven't seen in a while. Write a sentence to start the email, asking how they are and sending your regards.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你好！近来可好？给你问好！
Write a short social media post for a friend's birthday, wishing them a happy birthday and sending them your best regards.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
生日快乐，我的朋友！祝你一切顺利，给你问好！
小李给老师发信息的主要目的是什么？
Read this passage:
小李给他的老师发了一条信息，说：“老师，您好！祝您身体健康，给您问好！”
小李给老师发信息的主要目的是什么？
文章中提到“祝您身体健康，给您问好！”，这表明小李是在问候老师。
文章中提到“祝您身体健康，给您问好！”，这表明小李是在问候老师。
根据这段话，谁向“你”问好？
Read this passage:
我昨天遇到了王阿姨，她让我代她向你问好，并问你最近怎么样。
根据这段话，谁向“你”问好？
文章中明确提到“她让我代她向你问好”，所以是王阿姨问好。
文章中明确提到“她让我代她向你问好”，所以是王阿姨问好。
每年春节，他们会做什么？
Read this passage:
每年春节，我们都会给远方的亲戚打电话问好，祝他们新年快乐。
每年春节，他们会做什么？
文章中提到“给远方的亲戚打电话问好”，所以他们会打电话问候亲戚。
文章中提到“给远方的亲戚打电话问好”，所以他们会打电话问候亲戚。
The correct order is 'I will say hello to him'. The structure is Subject + will + with + Object + ask good (say hello).
The correct order is 'Please give my regards to her'. The structure is 'Please + on behalf of + me + to + her + ask good (send regards)'.
The correct order is 'We often greet each other'. The structure is Subject + often + mutually + ask good (greet).
He asked me to say hello to you for him.
When they saw the teacher, all the students took the initiative to greet her.
Every time I go back to my hometown, I visit my neighbors to say hello.
Read this aloud:
请你帮我向你妈妈问好。
Focus: 问好 (wènhǎo)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
早上在电梯里遇到同事，你会怎么问好？
Focus: 怎么问好 (zěnme wènhǎo)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他是一个很有礼貌的人，见到谁都会主动问好。
Focus: 主动问好 (zhǔdòng wènhǎo)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
在跨文化交流中，仅仅简单地___问好___可能不足以表达真诚，有时需要更深入的互动。
在表达真诚时，简单的问候可能不够，需要更深入的互动。
即便是在繁忙的日程中，她也总不忘给远方的家人___问好___，维系着亲情。
致意在此处意为表达问候，符合语境中维系亲情的含义。
大使在宴会上向各国来宾___问好___，彰显了主人的热情与外交风范。
亲切地问好更符合热情好客的外交风范。
虽然他俩之前有些误会，但一次不期而遇的___问好___，竟成了和解的契机。
真诚的问候更能促成和解。
在正式场合，即使是领导，也应该主动向员工___问好___，以示尊重。
在正式场合，问候应体现礼节和尊重。
离别时，他反复叮嘱我，一定要代他向大家___问好___，表达他的思念。
“带去问好”是更自然的表达方式，常用于转达问候。
Choose the most appropriate response to someone saying他们让我代您问好 (Tāmen ràng wǒ dài nín wènhǎo).
The speaker is conveying regards from others, so a polite and reciprocal response is to thank them and ask them to return the regards.
Which of the following sentences correctly uses 问好 (wènhǎo) to express sending regards?
This sentence correctly uses 问好 with '代 (dài)' to express conveying greetings to someone's family. The other options are grammatically incorrect or use 问好 in an inappropriate context.
In a formal setting, when you are meeting someone's superior for the first time, what is a polite way to use 问好 (wènhǎo)?
This is a very polite and formal way to greet someone, often used when meeting someone of higher status. It literally means 'Please allow me to send my regards to you.'
When you say 问好 (wènhǎo) to someone directly, it's generally understood as 'saying hello' rather than 'sending regards through someone else.'
问好 can be used directly as 'say hello,' but it more commonly implies 'sending regards' when used with '代 (dài)' or '替 (tì)'. When used directly, it has a more formal connotation than just '你好 (nǐhǎo)'.
It is appropriate to use 问好 (wènhǎo) when you want to ask someone how they are feeling physically.
问好 (wènhǎo) means 'to say hello' or 'to send regards,' not to inquire about someone's physical health. For that, you would typically use phrases like '你身体怎么样？ (Nǐ shēntǐ zěnmeyàng?)' or '你还好吗？ (Nǐ hái hǎo ma?)'.
If someone asks you to '代我向你的父母问好 (dài wǒ xiàng nǐ de fùmǔ wènhǎo),' they are asking you to greet your parents on their behalf.
The phrase '代我向...问好' (dài wǒ xiàng... wènhǎo) literally means 'on my behalf, send regards to...'. So, yes, they are asking you to convey their greetings to your parents.
Imagine you are writing an email to a new business contact in China. Draft a short paragraph where you politely '问好' (send regards) to them and express your anticipation for future collaboration. Use formal and respectful language.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
尊敬的[姓名], 您好！非常荣幸能有机会与您联系。希望一切顺利。我谨代表我的团队向您问好，并期待与贵公司未来能有愉快的合作。
You are at a social gathering and encounter an acquaintance you haven't seen in a long time. Write a short dialogue where you enthusiastically '问好' (say hello) to them and ask about their recent life. Include an idiomatic expression or common Chinese phrase.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
A: 哎呀，[朋友名字]！好久不见了！最近怎么样啊？ B: 是啊，好久不见！我挺好的，向你问好！你呢，一切都好吗？
Write a short blog post entry (around 100 characters) about the importance of '问好' (saying hello/sending regards) in Chinese culture, particularly in building and maintaining relationships. Emphasize its role beyond just a simple greeting.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
在中国文化中，‘问好’远不止一句简单的问候。它是建立和维护人际关系的重要一环，体现了对他人的尊重与关心。通过真诚的问好，我们能拉近彼此的距离，促进更深层次的沟通。
根据这段文字，'问好'在中国文化中扮演着怎样的角色？
Read this passage:
在中国传统文化中，'问好'不仅仅是一种礼貌性的寒暄，它更是人际交往中表达关心、传递善意的重要方式。特别是在正式场合，一句恰当的问好能迅速拉近彼此的距离，为后续的交流奠定良好的基础。例如，晚辈见到长辈时，主动问好是表达尊敬的体现；朋友之间久别重逢，互相问好则充满了情感的温度。
根据这段文字，'问好'在中国文化中扮演着怎样的角色？
文章明确指出，'问好'是表达关心、传递善意的重要方式，能拉近距离并奠定良好基础，并举例说明了尊敬长辈和朋友重逢的情境。
文章明确指出，'问好'是表达关心、传递善意的重要方式，能拉近距离并奠定良好基础，并举例说明了尊敬长辈和朋友重逢的情境。
小李在这次拜访中，除了简单的“您好”之外，还特意向客户“问好”的目的最可能是：
Read this passage:
小李今天去拜访了一位重要的客户。他一进门就微笑着对客户说：“您好！很荣幸能来拜访您。” 客户也热情地回应：“欢迎欢迎！请坐。” 接着，小李又补充道：“我代表我们公司向您问好，希望我们今天的会谈能顺利进行。” 客户听后非常满意，对小李的专业和礼貌留下了深刻印象。
小李在这次拜访中，除了简单的“您好”之外，还特意向客户“问好”的目的最可能是：
文章中提到小李“代表我们公司向您问好，希望我们今天的会谈能顺利进行”，并且客户“对小李的专业和礼貌留下了深刻印象”，这表明了其目的不仅是问候，更是表达敬意和对合作的期望。
文章中提到小李“代表我们公司向您问好，希望我们今天的会谈能顺利进行”，并且客户“对小李的专业和礼貌留下了深刻印象”，这表明了其目的不仅是问候，更是表达敬意和对合作的期望。
根据文章，在职场中“问好”除了基本的礼仪外，还有哪些积极作用？
Read this passage:
在中国的职场文化中，向同事和上级问好是基本的职业素养。不仅仅是早晨上班时的“早上好”，在电梯里、茶水间，甚至是线上会议开始前的一句“大家好，向各位问好”，都能体现出良好的沟通习惯和团队协作精神。这种习惯有助于营造积极的工作氛围，提升团队凝聚力。
根据文章，在职场中“问好”除了基本的礼仪外，还有哪些积极作用？
文章明确指出，“问好”能“有助于营造积极的工作氛围，提升团队凝聚力”，这超越了仅仅作为基本礼仪的作用。
文章明确指出，“问好”能“有助于营造积极的工作氛围，提升团队凝聚力”，这超越了仅仅作为基本礼仪的作用。
The correct order is '请 (qǐng) - please', '你 (nǐ) - you', '替 (tì) - on behalf of', '我 (wǒ) - me', '向 (xiàng) - to', '父母 (fùmǔ) - parents', '问好 (wènhǎo) - send regards'. This forms the sentence 'Please send my regards to your parents.'
The correct order is '他 (tā) - he', '一 (yī) - as soon as', '进办公室 (jìn bàngōngshì) - entered office', '就 (jiù) - then', '向 (xiàng) - to', '同事们 (tóngshìmen) - colleagues', '问好 (wènhǎo) - said hello'. This forms the sentence 'As soon as he entered the office, he greeted his colleagues.'
The correct order is '你 (nǐ) - you', '别忘了 (bié wàng le) - don't forget', '给 (gěi) - to give', '张老师 (Zhāng lǎoshī) - Teacher Zhang', '问好 (wènhǎo) - send regards'. This forms the sentence 'Don't forget to send regards to Teacher Zhang.'
在跨文化交流中，仅仅简单地___可能不足以表达真诚的问候。
本题考查在正式语境下，表达问候的恰当动词。'问好'更侧重于传递问候的动作，而非简单地打招呼。
面对久别重逢的恩师，他郑重地向老师___，表达了由衷的敬意。
'问好'在这里表达了对长辈或受尊敬者的正式且带有敬意的问候，与'致敬'的程度略有不同，但更符合语境。
在信件的结尾，她不忘请对方代为向家人___，体现了周全的心思。
当请别人代为转达问候时，通常用'问好'，表示送去自己的祝福和关心。
外交官在会谈开始时，首先向在座的各位来宾___，以示礼貌。
在正式场合，外交官向来宾表达问候通常使用'问好'，强调礼仪性。
即使面对陌生人，一个真诚的微笑和一句友善的___也能瞬间拉近彼此的距离。
这里'问好'指一句简单的问候语，能够传达善意，建立初步的联系。
在节日期间，许多人选择通过电话或短信向远方的亲友___，传递祝福。
通过电话或短信进行的节日问候，最常用且最自然的表达是'问好'，强调问候的动作本身。
Choose the most appropriate response to someone who has just sent you a message saying 他们让我代你向你的家人问好 (They asked me to send their regards to your family).
The speaker is expressing gratitude for the message of regards being passed on. The other options are either rude or indicate a lack of understanding.
Which sentence correctly uses '问好' to convey sending greetings to a group of people?
The structure '替A向B问好' (on behalf of A, send greetings to B) is the correct way to express this. The other options are grammatically incorrect.
A friend tells you they're going to visit your hometown. What would you say if you want them to greet your parents for you?
'代我向...' (on my behalf to...) is the most natural and polite way to ask someone to convey greetings to another person.
You can use '问好' to directly ask someone 'How are you?'.
'问好' means to send regards or say hello, not to directly ask 'How are you?'. For 'How are you?', you would typically say '你好吗?' or '最近怎么样?'.
It is appropriate to use '问好' when you want to express sending greetings to someone's family members through a third party.
'问好' is frequently used in this context, for example, '请代我向你家人问好' (Please send my regards to your family).
If you are meeting someone face-to-face for the first time, you can say '我来向你问好' to mean 'I'm here to greet you'.
While '问好' means to say hello or send regards, in a direct, face-to-face greeting, you would typically just say '你好' (Hello) or introduce yourself. '我来向你问好' sounds slightly formal or implies you are conveying someone else's greetings, not your own initial greeting upon meeting.
He called specifically to send his regards to you.
Every time we meet, he always says hello to me first.
Please give my regards to your family.
Read this aloud:
请代我向你的父母问好。
Focus: 问好 (wèn hǎo)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
我刚到办公室，还没来得及向同事们问好。
Focus: 来得及 (lái de jí)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他走到每个人面前，一一向他们问好。
Focus: 一一 (yī yī)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
This sentence means 'Everyone greeted each other.' The structure is 'Subject + 互相 (each other) + Verb'.
This means 'I want to say hello to him for you.' The structure is 'Subject + 想 (want to) + 替 (on behalf of) + Object + 向 (to) + Object + 问好 (say hello/send regards)'.
This translates to 'He always takes the initiative to say hello to me.' The order is 'Subject + 每次 (every time) + 都 (all/always) + 主动 (proactively) + 向 (to) + Object + 问好 (say hello)'.
/ 108 correct
Perfect score!
Basic Greeting
The simplest way to use 问好 is to say someone is 'saying hello' or 'sending their regards'. Think of it as a polite gesture.
Active Use
When you want to express that you are saying hello to someone, you can use 我向你问好 (wǒ xiàng nǐ wènhǎo), meaning 'I say hello to you'.
Passive Use
If someone asks you to pass on their greetings, you can say 他让我向你问好 (tā ràng wǒ xiàng nǐ wènhǎo), meaning 'He asked me to say hello to you'.
Contextual Greeting
It's often used when greeting someone you haven't seen in a while, or when sending good wishes to someone through a third party. It's more than just a quick 'hi'; it implies well-wishing.
Example
请代我向你父母问好。
