When it's time to go, especially from someone's home or a meeting, you can use 告辞 (gàocí). It's a polite way to say you are leaving. Think of it like saying, "I'm taking my leave now." You'll often hear it in more formal situations or when you want to show respect.
When it's time to go, especially from someone's home or a gathering, you can use 告辞 (gàocí). Think of it as a polite way to say "I'm taking my leave now." It's a bit more formal than just saying "bye."
You might hear it when someone is departing after a visit, showing respect to their host. For example, if you've been at a friend's house for dinner, as you get ready to leave, you could say 我该告辞了 (wǒ gāi gàocí le), meaning "I should be taking my leave."
When using 告辞 (gào cí) in Chinese, it's important to understand its formality and specific usage. Unlike a casual “再见” (zài jiàn), 告辞 is typically reserved for more formal situations or when you are politely excusing yourself from a gathering or a host's presence. It conveys a sense of respect and often implies that you are the one departing.
You wouldn't usually use 告辞 with close friends or family in everyday goodbyes. It's more appropriate in professional settings, when leaving a formal event, or when saying farewell to someone of higher status. Think of it as saying, “I must take my leave” or “I bid you farewell” in English, rather than just “See you later.”
Alright, let's talk about the word 告辞 (gàocí). You'll see it translated as 'to take leave' or 'to say goodbye,' and while that's accurate, it has a specific feel to it. It's not your everyday 'bye-bye.' It carries a bit more formality and sometimes a sense of finality or a respectful departure. Knowing when and where to use it will make your Chinese sound much more natural.
§ Formal Departures: Business and Official Settings
In professional environments, 告辞 is perfectly appropriate. Imagine you're at a business meeting or a formal gathering and it's time to go. You wouldn't typically just blurt out '再见' (zàijiàn), especially if you're addressing someone senior or a group. 告辞 shows respect and acknowledges your departure in a more polished way.
- DEFINITION
- To take leave; to say goodbye.
时间不早了，我该告辞了。
Hint: It's getting late, I should take my leave.
李总，我们今天就先告辞了，感谢您的款待。
Hint: General Manager Li, we will take our leave for today, thank you for your hospitality.
§ In Literature and Historical Contexts
You'll also frequently encounter 告辞 in older texts, historical dramas, or even news reports referencing past events. It lends an air of formality and tradition. When you see it in these contexts, it reinforces the respectful and somewhat ceremonious nature of the departure.
他向主人行礼后，便告辞了。
Hint: After bowing to the host, he took his leave.
Here, '行礼' (xínglǐ - to salute/bow) further emphasizes the formality.
§ News and Formal Announcements
Even in modern news, particularly when reporting on diplomatic events, official visits, or formal statements, 告辞 can appear. It maintains the objective and respectful tone expected in such reporting.
会议结束后，各国代表纷纷告辞。
Hint: After the meeting, representatives from various countries took their leave one after another.
§ When NOT to use 告辞
This is important. Misusing 告辞 can make you sound unnatural or even a bit dramatic in casual settings. Here's a quick guide:
- **With Friends/Family:** Avoid it. Use '再见' (zàijiàn), '拜拜' (bàibài), or just '走了' (zǒule - I'm leaving).
- **Quick Errands:** If you're just popping out for a moment, '告辞' is overkill.
- **Informal Gatherings:** A BBQ or a casual get-together with classmates? Stick to less formal options.
In summary, 告辞 is a valuable word to know for its specific use in formal and respectful departures. It adds a layer of politeness and acknowledges the occasion. Practice using it when you need to sound professional or when referring to more formal exits, and you'll be one step closer to sounding like a native speaker.
Pronunciation Guide
- gāocí (incorrect tone on 告)
- gàozǐ (incorrect pinyin for 辞)
Difficulty Rating
short
short
short
short
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Use 告辞 when you're leaving a place or ending an interaction, especially a formal one. It implies a polite departure.
他说了声告辞，就离开了。 (He said goodbye and left.)
告辞 is often used with phrases like '先行告辞' (to take my leave first) to express politeness when leaving before others.
时间不早了，我先行告辞了。 (It's getting late, I'll take my leave first.)
You can use 告辞 with a person or group you are leaving. For example, '向A告辞' (to say goodbye to A).
他向大家告辞后便走了。 (He left after saying goodbye to everyone.)
Compared to '再见' (goodbye), 告辞 carries a slightly more formal and often more final tone, indicating a departure rather than a casual farewell.
会议结束了，我们告辞了。 (The meeting is over, we are leaving.)
While 告辞 is a verb, it can also be used as a noun in certain contexts, meaning 'a farewell' or 'a departure'.
他没有说一声告辞就走了。 (He left without a word of farewell.)
Examples by Level
我该告辞了。
I should take my leave now.
我们明天再见，现在我要告辞了。
We'll see each other tomorrow, I need to say goodbye now.
他吃完饭就告辞了。
He said goodbye after eating.
时间不早了，我得告辞了。
It's getting late, I have to take my leave.
她跟大家告辞。
She said goodbye to everyone.
谢谢你的招待，我该告辞了。
Thanks for your hospitality, I should go now.
他匆匆告辞了。
He quickly said goodbye.
请允许我告辞。
Please allow me to take my leave.
我该告辞了。
I should take my leave.
时间不早了，我们告辞吧。
It's getting late, let's say goodbye.
他对我们说了一声告辞。
He said goodbye to us.
她很快就告辞了。
She left very quickly.
吃完饭后，他们就告辞了。
After eating, they said goodbye.
谢谢您的招待，我得告辞了。
Thank you for your hospitality, I must take my leave.
他向大家告辞，然后离开了。
He said goodbye to everyone, then left.
我不能再待了，我得告辞。
I can't stay any longer, I need to leave.
时间不早了，我该告辞了。
It's getting late, I should take my leave.
他向主人告辞后离开了。
He said goodbye to the host and left.
我们在这里停留了一会儿，然后就告辞了。
We stayed here for a while, then said our goodbyes.
很抱歉，我得告辞了。
I'm sorry, I have to take my leave.
在聚会结束时，大家互相告辞。
At the end of the party, everyone said goodbye to each other.
她没有说再见就告辞了。
She left without saying goodbye.
客人们陆续告辞了。
The guests left one after another.
我们明天再见，现在我得告辞了。
We'll see each other tomorrow, I have to go now.
时间不早了，我该告辞了。
It's getting late, I should take my leave.
他匆匆告辞，连茶都没喝。
He quickly said goodbye, didn't even drink the tea.
客人告辞时，主人一直送到了门口。
When the guests departed, the host walked them to the door.
开完会，大家陆续告辞。
After the meeting, everyone said their goodbyes one after another.
我还有些急事，就不多打扰了，先告辞了。
I have some urgent matters, so I won't bother you further. I'll take my leave now.
天色已晚，我必须告辞了。
It's already late, I must say goodbye.
他向主人告辞，离开了派对。
He said goodbye to the host and left the party.
虽然很不舍，但时间到了，我们不得不告辞。
Although we were reluctant, it was time, and we had to say goodbye.
时间不早了，我该告辞了。
It's getting late, I should take my leave.
他匆匆告辞，连句再见都没说。
He quickly said goodbye, without even a 'see you later'.
我还有些事情要处理，得提前告辞了。
I still have some things to deal with, so I have to leave early.
宴会结束后，客人们纷纷告辞。
After the banquet, guests left one after another.
虽然不舍，但我们还是决定告辞。
Although reluctant, we still decided to say goodbye.
她向主人告辞后，便离开了。
After she said goodbye to the host, she left.
请允许我先行告辞，祝大家玩得愉快。
Please allow me to leave first, I wish everyone a good time.
天色已晚，我必须告辞了。
It's already late, I must take my leave.
Often Confused With
This means 'to confess (one's love)' or 'to make a declaration', completely different from leaving.
This is very similar to 告辞, specifically meaning 'to bid farewell before a journey'. It's a more specific type of 'taking leave'.
This means 'to decline (with thanks)' or 'to politely refuse', which is unrelated to saying goodbye.
Grammar Patterns
Idioms & Expressions
"不告而别 (bù gào ér bié)"
To leave without saying goodbye; to take French leave.
他总是这样，不告而别。
neutral"告辞了 (gào cí le)"
I'm leaving now. (A common way to announce departure)
时间不早了，我告辞了。
neutral"恕不远送，就此告辞 (shù bù yuǎn sòng, jiù cǐ gào cí)"
Please excuse me for not seeing you off, I'll take my leave now. (Polite and formal way to end a visit)
恕不远送，就此告辞。
formal"告辞出门 (gào cí chū mén)"
To say goodbye and leave the house.
他告辞出门后，我才发现忘了告诉他这件事。
neutral"拜辞 (bài cí)"
To respectfully bid farewell.
他向主人拜辞。
formal"辞行 (cí xíng)"
To bid farewell before a journey.
我来向您辞行。
neutral"作别 (zuò bié)"
To say goodbye.
我们作别后各自回家。
neutral"道别 (dào bié)"
To say goodbye.
她和大家一一握手道别。
neutral"请留步，我告辞了 (qǐng liú bù, wǒ gào cí le)"
Please don't bother to see me out, I'm taking my leave. (Polite way to prevent the host from accompanying you out)
请留步，我告辞了。
neutral"告退 (gào tuì)"
To announce one's departure (often to a superior or elder).
公务繁忙，我先行告退。
formalEasily Confused
Both mean 'to leave', but 告辞 is specifically about taking leave from a person or group in a formal or polite way, often implying a farewell. 离开 is more general and can refer to leaving a place, an object, or even a person without necessarily saying goodbye.
告辞 emphasizes the act of saying goodbye when departing from people. 离开 is a broader term for departure.
我该告辞了，谢谢你们的招待。(Wǒ gāi gàocí le, xièxie nǐmen de zhāodài.) - I should take my leave now, thank you for your hospitality.
Both imply a separation, but 分手 is specifically about ending a romantic relationship. 告辞 is about a polite departure from a social situation.
告辞 is about polite social departure. 分手 is about relationship breakup.
他们分手了，因为性格不合。(Tāmen fēnshǒu le, yīnwèi xìnggé bùhé.) - They broke up because their personalities didn't match.
Both involve '辞' and relate to leaving, but 辞职 is specifically about resigning from a job. 告辞 is a polite social farewell.
告辞 is a social goodbye. 辞职 is about quitting a job.
他决定辞职去创业。(Tā juédìng cízhí qù chuàngyè.) - He decided to resign and start his own business.
Both are related to saying goodbye. 告辞 is the act of stating one's intention to leave, often followed by '再见'. '再见' is the direct farewell greeting itself.
告辞 is the verb 'to take leave'. 再见 is the common interjection 'goodbye'.
我先走了，再见！(Wǒ xiān zǒu le, zàijiàn!) - I'm leaving first, goodbye!
道别 is very similar to 告辞 and often interchangeable. However, 告辞 can sometimes carry a slightly more formal or polite nuance, or be used in situations where one is asking permission to leave. 道别 is a more general term for saying goodbye.
道别 is a general act of saying goodbye. 告辞 can be slightly more formal or indicate asking permission to depart.
我得去向他道别。(Wǒ děi qù xiàng tā dàobié.) - I need to go say goodbye to him.
Sentence Patterns
我告辞了。
我告辞了，谢谢你的款待。 (Wǒ gàocí le, xièxie nǐ de kuǎndài.) - I'm taking my leave now, thank you for your hospitality.
是时候告辞了。
时间不早了，是时候告辞了。 (Shíjiān bù zǎo le, shì shíhou gàocí le.) - It's getting late, it's time to say goodbye.
我先告辞了。
我还有些事情，就先告辞了。 (Wǒ hái yǒuxiē shìqing, jiù xiān gàocí le.) - I still have some things to do, so I'll take my leave first.
向 [某人] 告辞
他向主人告辞，然后离开了。 (Tā xiàng zhǔrén gàocí, ránhòu líkāi le.) - He said goodbye to the host, then left.
恕我告辞。
抱歉，恕我告辞，我得去开会了。 (Bàoqiàn, shù wǒ gàocí, wǒ děi qù kāihuì le.) - Excuse me, I must take my leave, I have a meeting to attend.
告辞一声
他没告辞一声就走了。 (Tā méi gàocí yī shēng jiù zǒu le.) - He left without saying goodbye.
How to Use It
告辞 (gàocí) is a more formal and somewhat old-fashioned way to say goodbye or to take one's leave. It implies a polite departure, often after a visit or a meeting. You might use it when leaving a host's home, or when concluding a formal discussion. It's not typically used for casual goodbyes among friends or family.
A common mistake is using 告辞 in informal situations. For example, saying 告辞 to a close friend after a casual dinner would sound overly formal and a bit strange. In such cases, 再见 (zàijiàn) or 走了 (zǒule) are more appropriate. Another mistake is using it as a direct equivalent to 'goodbye' in all contexts; remember, it specifically means 'to take one's leave' rather than just a general farewell.
Tips
Basic Usage of 告辞
告辞 (gào cí) means to take one's leave or to say goodbye, often used in more formal or polite contexts than just 再见 (zài jiàn).
Literal Meaning
The characters literally mean 'announce' (告) and 'take leave' (辞). So you are announcing your departure.
When to Use 告辞
Use 告辞 when you are leaving a gathering, a visit, or a meeting, and you want to express your polite departure. It's often used when you are a guest.
Don't Use Casually
While 'say goodbye' is a definition, it's not typically used for a casual goodbye to friends. For friends, stick to 再见 (zài jiàn) or 拜拜 (bái bái).
Often Paired with 了
You'll often hear it with 了 (le) to indicate the completion of the action: 我该告辞了 (wǒ gāi gào cí le) - 'I should take my leave now.'
Formal Contexts
Think of it as the Chinese equivalent of 'I must be going' or 'I bid you farewell,' suggesting a certain level of formality or respect.
Expressing an Intention to Leave
You can say 我要告辞了 (wǒ yào gào cí le) to express your intention to leave, rather than already being on your way out.
Used by Guests
This term is most often used by a guest to the host, signaling the end of their visit.
Not for Short Goodbyes
Avoid using 告辞 for very short or quick goodbyes, like when someone is just stepping out for a moment. It implies a more definitive departure.
Practice Phrases
Try saying: 时间不早了，我该告辞了 (shí jiān bù zǎo le, wǒ gāi gào cí le) - 'It's getting late, I should take my leave.' or 谢谢您的招待，我告辞了 (xiè xiè nín de zhāo dài, wǒ gào cí le) - 'Thank you for your hospitality, I'm taking my leave.'
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine you're at a party and you want to 'announce' (告 - gào) that you're 'resigning' (辞 - cí) from the party, meaning you're leaving. So, 告辞 (gàocí) is to announce your departure or say goodbye.
Visual Association
Picture yourself gracefully bowing and waving goodbye to a group of friends, with the words '告辞' floating above your head. The '告' part can look like someone speaking, and '辞' can look like a person walking away.
Word Web
Challenge
Try using 告辞 in a sentence next time you're leaving a gathering or saying goodbye in a slightly more formal context. For example: '时间不早了，我该告辞了。' (Shíjiān bù zǎo le, wǒ gāi gàocí le. - It's getting late, I should take my leave.)
Test Yourself 120 questions
我们该___了。
The sentence means 'It's time for us to take our leave.' '告辞' (gàocí) means 'to take leave; to say goodbye.'
他站起来说：我___了。
The sentence means 'He stood up and said: I'm leaving.' '告辞' (gàocí) is used for saying goodbye.
时间不早了，我们___吧。
The sentence means 'It's getting late, let's say goodbye.' '告辞' (gàocí) fits the context of leaving.
客人向主人___。
The sentence means 'The guests said goodbye to the host.' '告辞' (gàocí) is the appropriate word for saying goodbye.
开完会，大家就___了。
The sentence means 'After the meeting, everyone said goodbye.' '告辞' (gàocí) is used when people leave.
她很有礼貌地___。
The sentence means 'She politely said goodbye.' '告辞' (gàocí) is a polite way to take leave.
Which of these means to say goodbye?
告辞 specifically means to take one's leave or formally say goodbye, often when departing from a host or a gathering.
If you are leaving a friend's house, what would you most likely say?
再见 is the most common and general way to say goodbye in everyday situations. '告辞' is more formal.
Which word is similar in meaning to '再见' (zài jiàn)?
Both '告辞' and '再见' are used to express leaving or ending a meeting, but '告辞' carries a more formal nuance of taking one's leave.
'告辞' (gào cí) can be used to say hello.
No, '告辞' means to take leave or say goodbye, not hello. '你好' (nǐ hǎo) is used to say hello.
When you want to politely leave a party, you can say '告辞' (gào cí).
'告辞' is a polite and somewhat formal way to announce your departure.
You can use '告辞' (gào cí) to thank someone.
'告辞' is for saying goodbye, not for thanking someone. '谢谢' (xiè xie) is used to thank someone.
Imagine you are leaving a friend's house after dinner. Write a short sentence to say goodbye politely using '告辞'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
谢谢你的晚餐，我该告辞了。 (Thanks for dinner, I should take my leave.)
You are at a party and need to leave early. Write a simple sentence to excuse yourself using '告辞'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
不好意思，我得先告辞了。 (Sorry, I have to leave now.)
Your boss is busy, and you've finished your discussion. Write a sentence to politely end the conversation and leave using '告辞'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
打扰了，我告辞了。 (Sorry to bother you, I'll take my leave.)
小明要做什么？
Read this passage:
小明对朋友说：“我该告辞了。” 朋友问：“你要走了吗？” 小明点点头。
小明要做什么？
“告辞”的意思是离开，所以小明是要走了。
“告辞”的意思是离开，所以小明是要走了。
客人对主人说了什么？
Read this passage:
晚饭后，客人对主人说：“谢谢您的招待，我告辞了。” 主人说：“再见！”
客人对主人说了什么？
客人明确说了“我告辞了”，表示要离开。
客人明确说了“我告辞了”，表示要离开。
老师为什么告辞？
Read this passage:
老师对学生说：“时间不早了，我该告辞了。” 学生说：“老师再见。”
老师为什么告辞？
老师说“时间不早了”，所以他要告辞离开。
老师说“时间不早了”，所以他要告辞离开。
时间不早了，我该___了。
The sentence means 'It's late, I should take my leave.' '告辞' fits this context perfectly.
她微笑着和大家___。
The sentence means 'She smiled and said goodbye to everyone.' '告辞' is the correct word for saying goodbye.
我们开完会后就___了。
The sentence means 'We took our leave after the meeting.' '告辞' is appropriate for leaving an event.
天色已晚，我不得不___。
The sentence means 'It's getting late, I have to take my leave.' '告辞' is the best fit.
聚会结束了，大家开始___。
The sentence means 'The party is over, everyone started to say goodbye.' '告辞' fits the action of leaving a gathering.
他有事，所以提前___了。
The sentence means 'He had something to do, so he took his leave early.' '告辞' is correct in this context.
Which of the following situations would you most likely say “告辞”?
“告辞” means to say goodbye or take leave. It's appropriate when departing from someone's presence.
Which phrase is similar in meaning to “告辞”?
Both “告辞” and “再见” are ways to say goodbye, though “告辞” can be a bit more formal or indicate leaving a particular place.
If someone says “我要告辞了”, what are they indicating?
“我要告辞了” literally means 'I am going to take my leave now.'
You can use “告辞” when you are starting a conversation.
“告辞” is used when ending a conversation or leaving, not starting one.
It is polite to say “告辞” when you are leaving a gathering.
Saying “告辞” is a polite way to announce your departure.
“告辞” is primarily used to greet someone.
“告辞” is a farewell, not a greeting.
Imagine you are at a friend's house and it's getting late. Write a short sentence to tell them you need to leave. Use '告辞'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
时间不早了，我该告辞了。(It's getting late, I should take my leave.)
You just finished a meeting with a new client. Write a polite sentence using '告辞' to say goodbye.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
谢谢您的时间，我先告辞了。(Thank you for your time, I'll take my leave first.)
Your friend is leaving for a trip. Write a short message telling them to have a good trip and that you'll see them later, but you have to '告辞' now.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
祝你旅途愉快！我要告辞了，下次再见。(Have a good trip! I have to leave now, see you next time.)
小李为什么要告辞？
Read this passage:
小李在朋友家玩得很开心，但是他明天要上班，所以不得不离开了。他说：“时间不早了，我得告辞了。”
小李为什么要告辞？
文章中明确提到“他明天要上班，所以不得不离开了”。
文章中明确提到“他明天要上班，所以不得不离开了”。
经理这句话的意思是？
Read this passage:
会议结束后，经理对大家说：“谢谢各位的参与，大家可以告辞了。”
经理这句话的意思是？
“大家可以告辞了”表示会议结束，大家可以散会离开。
“大家可以告辞了”表示会议结束，大家可以散会离开。
老王为什么说他得告辞了？
Read this passage:
老王和老张聊天聊了很久。老王看了一眼手表，说：“不早了，我得告辞了。” 老张说：“好的，路上小心。”
老王为什么说他得告辞了？
老王看了一眼手表，并说“不早了”，表明时间已经很晚了，他需要离开了。
老王看了一眼手表，并说“不早了”，表明时间已经很晚了，他需要离开了。
This sentence means 'I should take my leave.' The structure is Subject + Auxillary Verb + Verb + Particle.
This sentence means 'He said goodbye and left.' The structure is Subject + Verb + Particle + Measure Word + Object + Conjunction + Verb.
This sentence means 'I have to leave first.' The structure is Subject + Auxillary Verb + Adverb + Verb + Particle.
时间不早了，我该_______了。
‘告辞’ (gàocí) means to take one's leave or say goodbye, often used in a slightly more formal context than just '再见'. Here, the speaker is indicating it's late and they should depart.
他起身，向主人_______，然后离开了房间。
‘告辞’ (gàocí) fits best here as it describes the act of formally saying goodbye before leaving someone's presence, which is implied by '向主人' (to the host).
我们聊了很久，最后我不得不_______。
After a long conversation, '告辞' (gàocí) is the appropriate term for taking leave or saying goodbye.
会议结束后，大家都互相_______了。
After a meeting, people would typically say goodbye to each other before leaving. '告辞' (gàocí) is suitable here.
谢谢您的款待，我该_______了。
When thanking someone for their hospitality, '告辞' (gàocí) is a polite way to announce your departure.
很抱歉，我不能再待下去了，我得_______。
If one cannot stay longer, they must take their leave or say goodbye, making '告辞' (gàocí) the correct choice.
Listen for the speaker saying it's getting late and they should leave.
Listen for the phrase meaning 'she said goodbye to everyone and left'.
Listen for a polite way to ask to leave.
Read this aloud:
我得告辞了。
Focus: 告辞 (gào cí)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
明天再见，我先告辞了。
Focus: 先告辞了 (xiān gào cí le)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
很抱歉，我必须告辞了。
Focus: 必须告辞 (bì xū gào cí)
You said:
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Imagine you are at a friend's house and it's getting late. You need to leave. Write a short message to your friend saying goodbye politely, using 告辞 (gàocí).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
朋友，时间不早了，我该告辞了。今天很开心，再见！ (Friend, it's getting late, I should take my leave. I had a great time today, goodbye!)
You just finished a business meeting. Write an email to the host expressing your gratitude and politely stating that you are leaving, using 告辞 (gàocí).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
尊敬的[Host's Name], 感谢您的热情款待。时间不早了，我该告辞了。期待下次再见。 (Dear [Host's Name], thank you for your kind hospitality. It's getting late, I should take my leave. Looking forward to seeing you next time.)
You are leaving a party early because you have an important appointment. Write a short note to the host to explain your early departure and say goodbye, using 告辞 (gàocí).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
亲爱的[Host's Name], 很抱歉要提前告辞了，因为我有一个重要的约会。祝大家玩得开心！ (Dear [Host's Name], I'm sorry to have to leave early, because I have an important appointment. Wish everyone a good time!)
根据短文，李先生在说什么？ (According to the passage, what is Mr. Li saying?)
Read this passage:
会议结束后，李先生对大家说：“各位，时间不早了，我先告辞了。” 然后他微笑着离开了会议室。
根据短文，李先生在说什么？ (According to the passage, what is Mr. Li saying?)
“告辞” (gàocí) 意思是离开或说再见。 (Gàocí means to leave or to say goodbye.)
“告辞” (gàocí) 意思是离开或说再见。 (Gàocí means to leave or to say goodbye.)
为什么小明要告辞？ (Why does Xiao Ming have to leave?)
Read this passage:
小明和朋友们玩得很开心，但是妈妈打电话告诉他该回家了。他对朋友们说：“我该告辞了，明天再见！”
为什么小明要告辞？ (Why does Xiao Ming have to leave?)
短文提到妈妈打电话让他回家，所以他要告辞。 (The passage mentions his mom called him home, so he has to leave.)
短文提到妈妈打电话让他回家，所以他要告辞。 (The passage mentions his mom called him home, so he has to leave.)
张教授对主人表达了什么？ (What did Professor Zhang express to the host?)
Read this passage:
晚饭后，张教授对主人说：“谢谢您的盛情款待，我该告辞了。” 主人回答说：“欢迎您下次再来。”
张教授对主人表达了什么？ (What did Professor Zhang express to the host?)
“我该告辞了” (wǒ gāi gàocí le) 直接表达了离开的意思。 (Wǒ gāi gàocí le directly expresses the meaning of leaving.)
“我该告辞了” (wǒ gāi gàocí le) 直接表达了离开的意思。 (Wǒ gāi gàocí le directly expresses the meaning of leaving.)
This sentence means 'I need to take my leave now.' The standard Chinese sentence structure is Subject + Verb + Object, or in this case, Subject + Auxiliary Verb + Verb + Particle.
This sentence means 'After he said goodbye to his friends, he left.' The structure '跟...告辞' means 'to say goodbye to someone', and '...后' means 'after...'. '就' is often used to indicate a consequence or immediate action.
This sentence means 'It's getting late, I should take my leave.' '时间不早了' means 'it's not early anymore' or 'it's getting late'. '该' means 'should' or 'ought to'.
The speaker needs to leave.
Someone said goodbye and left.
The speaker wants to stay but has to leave.
Read this aloud:
我们现在得告辞了。
Focus: cí (tsyr)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
我该向主人告辞了。
Focus: zhǔ rén (joo ren)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
非常感谢您的款待，我得告辞了。
Focus: kuǎn dài (kwan dye)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Imagine you're at a party and need to leave early. Write a short message (2-3 sentences) to your host, using 告辞 to politely excuse yourself. Explain briefly why you're leaving.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
王阿姨，时间不早了，我得告辞了。明天还有点事情要处理，谢谢您的热情款待！ (Auntie Wang, it's getting late, I must take my leave. I have something to deal with tomorrow, thank you for your warm hospitality!)
You've finished a business meeting. Write a polite farewell sentence using 告辞 to your colleagues.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
各位，时间不早了，我先告辞了。期待下次合作愉快！ (Everyone, it's getting late, I'll take my leave first. Looking forward to pleasant cooperation next time!)
You just had dinner at a friend's house. Write a short thank-you message to your friend, including the phrase 告辞.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
谢谢你今晚的款待，饭菜很美味。我得告辞了，下次再聊！ (Thank you for your hospitality tonight, the food was delicious. I must take my leave, let's chat next time!)
Based on the passage, what did Mr. Li do?
Read this passage:
会议结束后，李先生站起来，对大家说：“时间不早了，我该告辞了。” 他向与会者微微点头，然后离开了会议室。 (After the meeting, Mr. Li stood up and said to everyone, "It's getting late, I should take my leave." He nodded slightly to the attendees and then left the conference room.)
Based on the passage, what did Mr. Li do?
The phrase "我该告辞了" directly translates to "I should take my leave," indicating he announced his departure.
The phrase "我该告辞了" directly translates to "I should take my leave," indicating he announced his departure.
Why did Xiao Ming want to leave?
Read this passage:
晚上九点，小明看了看手表，对奶奶说：“奶奶，我得告辞了，明天还要上学呢。” 奶奶微笑着说：“路上小心，下次再来玩。” (At 9 PM, Xiao Ming looked at his watch and said to his grandma, "Grandma, I have to take my leave, I have school tomorrow." Grandma smiled and said, "Be careful on your way, come play again next time.")
Why did Xiao Ming want to leave?
Xiao Ming explicitly states, "明天还要上学呢" (I have school tomorrow), as the reason for his departure.
Xiao Ming explicitly states, "明天还要上学呢" (I have school tomorrow), as the reason for his departure.
What is the main reason Miss Zhang had to leave the party early?
Read this passage:
派对上，张小姐和朋友们聊得很开心。但由于第二天有重要的工作，她不得不提前告辞。她对大家说：“各位，很抱歉，我得先告辞了。” (At the party, Miss Zhang chatted happily with her friends. But because she had important work the next day, she had to take her leave early. She said to everyone, "Everyone, I'm sorry, I have to take my leave first.")
What is the main reason Miss Zhang had to leave the party early?
The passage clearly states, "由于第二天有重要的工作" (due to important work the next day), as the reason for her early departure.
The passage clearly states, "由于第二天有重要的工作" (due to important work the next day), as the reason for her early departure.
天色已晚，我得___了，感谢您的款待。
The context implies a formal departure after an event, making '告辞' the most appropriate choice for 'take leave'.
会议结束后，他悄悄地向大家___，然后离开了。
'告辞' fits the formal and polite nature of leaving a meeting or gathering.
虽然很想多聊一会儿，但时间不早了，我不得不___。
Here, '告辞' conveys a polite and regretful departure, which aligns with the sentiment of wanting to stay longer.
她起身向主人夫妇___，感谢他们的盛情款待。
The phrase '盛情款待' (generous hospitality) suggests a formal setting where '告辞' is the most suitable verb for expressing thanks and leaving.
为了不打扰大家，他在聚会进行到一半时就悄然___了。
The nuance of '悄然' (quietly, stealthily) combined with leaving a gathering makes '告辞' a good fit, implying a respectful and unobtrusive departure.
临走时，他特意向老教授___，并祝他身体健康。
Addressing an '老教授' (old professor) implies respect, making '告辞' or '辞别' appropriate. '告辞' is the target word for this exercise.
她有事先走了，没有来得及跟大家___。
“告辞” (gào cí) means to take leave or say goodbye, which fits the context of someone leaving without being able to say goodbye to everyone. “辞职” (cí zhí) means to resign from a job. “离别” (lí bié) refers to parting, often with a sense of sadness. “分手” (fēn shǒu) means to break up (in a relationship).
会议结束后，他匆匆忙忙地向主席___，然后离开了。
“告辞” (gào cí) is the correct term for formally taking leave. “告知” (gào zhī) means to inform. “告发” (gào fā) means to inform against someone or report an offense. “告诉” (gào sù) means to tell.
因为时间不早了，我只好向主人___，约定下次再聚。
“告辞” (gào cí) is a polite way to say goodbye and take leave, often in a formal or semi-formal setting. “告别” (gào bié) and “道别” (dào bié) are also general terms for saying goodbye, but “告辞” specifically implies taking leave. “辞行” (cí xíng) means to say goodbye before going on a journey.
你可以在任何场合都用“告辞”来表示离开。
While “告辞” means to take leave, it often implies a more formal or polite setting than casual everyday goodbyes. For very casual situations, phrases like “我走了” or “再见” are more common.
当你在朋友家做客，准备离开时，使用“告辞”是非常得体的。
Using “告辞” (gào cí) when leaving a host's home is a polite and appropriate way to express your departure.
“告辞”可以用来表示辞去工作。
“告辞” (gào cí) means to take leave or say goodbye, not to resign from a job. The correct term for resigning from a job is “辞职” (cí zhí).
Listen for how he said goodbye.
Listen for the reason for leaving.
Listen for what she didn't have time to do.
Read this aloud:
向主人告辞是基本的礼仪。
Focus: 告辞 (gào cí)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
我得向您告辞了，下次再聊。
Focus: 下次再聊 (xià cì zài liáo)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
他没有和任何人告辞就走了。
Focus: 没有和任何人 (méi yǒu hé rèn hé rén)
You said:
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This sentence correctly orders the phrases to convey that 'It's getting late, he said I should take my leave.' The structure '时间不早了' (It's getting late) sets the context, followed by '他说' (he said) indicating who spoke, and then '我该告辞了' (I should take my leave) as the content of what was said.
This sentence correctly orders the phrases to convey that 'After bowing to the host, the guest took his leave.' The structure '客人向主人鞠躬后' (The guest bowed to the host after) describes the action, followed by '告辞' (took his leave) as the subsequent action.
This sentence correctly orders the phrases to convey that 'After the meeting ended, everyone took their leave and went home.' The structure '会议结束后' (After the meeting ended) sets the time, followed by '大家纷纷' (everyone one after another) describing the group's action, and then '告辞回家' (took their leave and went home) as the combined actions.
Choose the most appropriate response when you need to politely excuse yourself from a formal gathering.
“告辞” is a polite and formal way to say goodbye, suitable for a formal gathering. The other options are more casual.
Which of the following situations would most appropriately use '告辞'?
“告辞” is used in more formal settings or when showing respect to someone. A business meeting with senior executives fits this context well.
After a long and engaging conversation with an elder, what is the most respectful way to indicate your departure?
Adding “先” (xiān, first) before “告辞” makes it even more polite and indicates you are leaving before others, which is respectful in this context.
You can use '告辞' when quickly running out of a store.
“告辞” is a formal expression for taking leave, not for a hasty departure from a store. It implies a conscious and polite farewell.
It is appropriate to say '告辞' to your boss at the end of a workday.
Using '告辞' towards a boss or superior is a polite and formal way to indicate you are leaving for the day, showing respect.
If you are leaving a party without telling anyone, you have '告辞'ed.
“告辞” implies actively saying goodbye or taking leave. Leaving without telling anyone is not '告辞'.
He left in a hurry without even saying goodbye.
I must take my leave of you; it's getting late.
After the guests said goodbye to the host, the host saw them to the door.
Read this aloud:
抱歉，我得告辞了。
Focus: 告辞 (gào cí)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
请允许我先行告辞。
Focus: 先行告辞 (xiān xíng gào cí)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
时间不早了，我该告辞了。
Focus: 我该告辞了 (wǒ gāi gào cí le)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
You are at a formal business dinner. It's getting late and you need to leave. Write a short paragraph politely explaining why you must leave and using 告辞.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
各位，时间不早了，我明天还有重要的会议。感谢今晚的盛情宴请，我不得不告辞了。期待下次再见。
Imagine you are visiting an elderly relative's home. You have stayed for a long time and it is now evening. Write a few sentences to politely inform them you are leaving, using 告辞.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
爷爷奶奶，今天打扰很久了，时间不早了，我该告辞了。感谢你们的热情招待和照顾，我下次再来看你们。
You are a guest at a formal cultural event. The event is concluding, and you want to express your thanks and depart. Write a polite farewell using 告辞.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
各位来宾，感谢主办方精心组织的这场精彩活动。时间不早了，我不得不告辞了。期待未来能有更多这样的交流机会。
根据短文，王先生为什么要告辞？
Read this passage:
王先生在聚会上与几位重要客户聊得很愉快。然而，由于第二天有一个重要的商务会议，他不得不提前离开。他走到主人面前，礼貌地说：“很抱歉，时间不早了，我该告辞了。” 主人表示理解并送他出门。
根据短文，王先生为什么要告辞？
短文中明确提到“由于第二天有一个重要的商务会议，他不得不提前离开”。
短文中明确提到“由于第二天有一个重要的商务会议，他不得不提前离开”。
张教授告辞的原因是什么？
Read this passage:
张教授结束了在学术研讨会上的精彩演讲。听众纷纷上前与他交流。考虑到还有其他的安排，张教授微笑着对大家说：“感谢各位的聆听，我还有其他要务，就此告辞了。”
张教授告辞的原因是什么？
短文中提到“考虑到还有其他的安排”以及“我还有其他要务，就此告辞了”。
短文中提到“考虑到还有其他的安排”以及“我还有其他要务，就此告辞了”。
李明告辞时，主人是什么态度？
Read this passage:
李明在朋友家做客，一直聊到深夜。虽然主人热情挽留，但李明考虑到明天还要上班，最终决定离开。他对主人说：“谢谢你的款待，时间真的不早了，我不得不告辞了。”
李明告辞时，主人是什么态度？
短文中明确写道“虽然主人热情挽留”。
短文中明确写道“虽然主人热情挽留”。
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Basic Usage of 告辞
告辞 (gào cí) means to take one's leave or to say goodbye, often used in more formal or polite contexts than just 再见 (zài jiàn).
Literal Meaning
The characters literally mean 'announce' (告) and 'take leave' (辞). So you are announcing your departure.
When to Use 告辞
Use 告辞 when you are leaving a gathering, a visit, or a meeting, and you want to express your polite departure. It's often used when you are a guest.
Don't Use Casually
While 'say goodbye' is a definition, it's not typically used for a casual goodbye to friends. For friends, stick to 再见 (zài jiàn) or 拜拜 (bái bái).
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More daily_life words
朝九晚五
B2From nine to five; regular working hours.
未免
B2Rather; a bit too; truly (implies something excessive).
废弃
B2To abandon; to discard; to cease to use.
恪守
B2To scrupulously observe; to strictly adhere to.
反常
B2abnormal, unusual
充裕
B2Abundant; ample.
充沛
B2Abundant; plentiful; full of energy.
门禁卡
B2Access card; entry card.
门禁
B2Access control (system).
配件
B2Fittings; accessories; spare parts.
