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A2 verb #3,000 most common 9 min read

迎接

ying2 jie1 Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 迎接 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 迎接 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '迎接' (yíngjiē) as a more 'special' way to say 'meet' or 'welcome.' At this beginning stage, you mostly learn how to meet people. You might use it in very simple sentences like 'I meet my friend' (我迎接朋友). However, at A1, most students use the simpler word '接' (jiē). You will mostly see '迎接' in simple reading materials about holidays, like 'Welcoming the New Year' (迎接新年). It is important to know that this word is two characters, both of which relate to 'meeting' or 'receiving.' Even if you don't use it in daily speech yet, recognizing it in stories about Chinese festivals is a great first step. Remember: 迎 (yíng) looks like someone walking to meet you!

At the A2 level, you should start using '迎接' to describe more formal or enthusiastic welcomes. This is the level where you distinguish between a routine pickup (接) and a special welcome (迎接). For example, if your grandparents are visiting from another city, you don't just '接' them; you '迎接' them at the station to show respect. You will also use this word for seasons and holidays. '迎接春天' (welcoming spring) is a common phrase. You should be able to form basic sentences using the [Subject + 迎接 + Object] pattern. This word helps you express more emotion and effort in your hospitality than the basic A1 vocabulary. It shows you understand that Chinese social life involves showing respect to guests.

By B1, you are expected to use '迎接' in abstract contexts. You aren't just welcoming people; you are welcoming 'challenges' (挑战), 'opportunities' (机遇), and 'the future' (未来). This level requires you to understand the proactive connotation of the word. When you say '迎接挑战,' you are telling people that you are ready and excited to face a problem. You should also be comfortable using adverbs with the word, such as '热情地迎接' (warmly welcome) or '勇敢地迎接' (bravely meet). You might hear this word in business meetings or read it in news headlines. It becomes a tool for expressing your attitude toward life and work, not just a description of physical movement.

At the B2 level, '迎接' is used in more complex grammatical structures and formal registers. You will often see it paired with the noun '到来' (dàolái - arrival), as in '迎接新时代的到来' (welcoming the arrival of a new era). You should understand the nuance between '迎接' and its synonyms like '接待' (to host/receive) or '欢迎' (to welcome). In B2 writing, '迎接' adds a layer of sophistication. It is used to describe national events, historical transitions, and ceremonial protocols. You should also be able to use it in passive-like structures or as part of a larger descriptive phrase. Your understanding of the word should now include its role in Chinese 'hospitality culture' and official media language.

At the C1 level, your use of '迎接' should be nuanced and culturally grounded. You will encounter this word in classical-style modern prose and high-level political discourse. You should understand its metaphorical depth—how '迎接' can represent a psychological state of openness or a strategic positioning. You might explore how it appears in idioms or four-character phrases (chengyu) related to hospitality. At this level, you can distinguish between the subtle shades of meaning when '迎接' is used instead of '面对' (to face) to imply a more victorious or welcoming stance. You are expected to use the word fluently in essays about social change, history, or philosophy, where the 'welcoming' of new ideas is a central theme.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of '迎接' and its place in the vast landscape of Chinese synonyms. You can appreciate its use in literature to create specific atmospheres—perhaps a lonely character '迎接' the cold wind, using the word ironically to show their isolation. You understand the historical evolution of the characters 迎 and 接 and how they have merged to form this specific compound. You can use '迎接' in high-stakes diplomatic or legal translations where the distinction between 'receiving,' 'welcoming,' and 'meeting' carries significant weight. Your usage is indistinguishable from a native speaker, employing the word with perfect register, whether in a poetic, academic, or professional context.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

迎接 in 30 Seconds

迎接 (yíngjiē) means to go and meet someone or something arriving, combining the acts of meeting and receiving with respect.
It is used for physical guests (at airports/stations) and abstract events (New Year, challenges, the future).
It is more formal and proactive than the simple '接' (jiē) and more action-oriented than '欢迎' (huānyíng).
Commonly paired with '到来' (dàolái) to describe welcoming the arrival of a new time period or event.

The Chinese verb 迎接 (yíngjiē) is a cornerstone of social etiquette and temporal transitions in Chinese culture. At its most fundamental level, it means to go out and meet someone who is arriving, or to welcome a forthcoming event or time period. Unlike the simple English word 'welcome,' which often implies a static state of being glad someone is there, 迎接 carries a sense of movement and preparation. It suggests that the subject is actively moving toward the object to receive them with honor or readiness.

Physical Interaction: This is used when you go to a train station, airport, or the front door to meet a guest. It emphasizes the act of 'meeting and receiving.'

他在大门口站着，准备迎接远方来的客人。

Beyond physical guests, 迎接 is frequently applied to abstract concepts like time and challenges. You '迎接' the New Year, a new dawn, or a difficult task. This usage implies a positive, proactive stance. You aren't just letting the future happen to you; you are stepping forward to meet it. This reflects a cultural value of preparedness and hospitality. In a business context, a company might '迎接' a new market opportunity, suggesting they have geared up their resources to handle the change.

Abstract Welcome: Used for holidays, seasons, or challenges. Example: 迎接新年 (Welcoming the New Year).

全城的人都在放鞭炮，迎接新年的到来。

In formal diplomacy or high-level business, 迎接 is the standard term for official reception ceremonies. When a head of state visits another country, the hosting officials will '迎接' them at the airport. This is more than just 'meeting'; it is a ritualized act of showing respect. The word choice here elevates the status of both the host and the guest, signaling that the arrival is an event of significance. Even in daily life, if you tell a friend '我去车站迎接你' (I will go to the station to meet/welcome you), it sounds much warmer and more dedicated than simply saying 'I will pick you up.'

Formal Reception: Used in news reports and official documents to describe the formal greeting of dignitaries.

礼兵们整齐地排列在红地毯两旁，迎接外宾。

Using 迎接 (yíngjiē) correctly requires understanding its transitive nature. It always takes an object—either a person, a group, or a time-based event. The basic sentence structure is [Subject] + [迎接] + [Object]. However, because it often implies movement, it is frequently paired with location-based phrases or purpose-driven auxiliary verbs like '准备' (zhǔnbèi - prepare) or '去' (qù - go).

The 'Go To' Pattern: [Subject] + 去 + [Place] + 迎接 + [Person]. This is the most common way to describe picking someone up or meeting them at a specific location.

爸爸去机场迎接多年未见的老朋友。

When dealing with abstract objects like 'challenges' or 'the future,' the verb often takes modifiers that describe the attitude of the subject. Common adverbs include '积极' (jījí - actively/positively), '勇敢' (yǒnggǎn - bravely), or '满怀喜悦' (mǎnhuái xǐyuè - with a heart full of joy). This turns the sentence from a simple statement of fact into a description of character or mood. For instance, '迎接挑战' (meeting a challenge) is a very common phrase in motivational contexts and corporate slogans.

The Attitude Pattern: [Subject] + [Adverb] + 迎接 + [Abstract Event]. This shows how one faces the coming situation.

我们要以饱满的热情来迎接新的工作任务。

Another important grammatical feature of 迎接 is its use in passive or descriptive constructions involving the word '到来' (dàolái - arrival). Instead of just '迎接春天' (welcoming spring), Chinese speakers often say '迎接春天的到来' (welcoming the arrival of spring). This makes the sentence sound more formal and complete. It shifts the focus slightly from the season itself to the specific moment of its transition. This is particularly useful in writing and formal speeches.

The 'Arrival' Pattern: 迎接 + [Event] + 的到来. This is the sophisticated way to express welcoming a new period.

全校师生都在准备活动，迎接校庆的到来。

In the real world, 迎接 (yíngjiē) appears in several distinct environments. If you are traveling in China, the first place you might encounter it is at transportation hubs. While signs might use '接站' (jiēzhàn - pick up at station), the formal announcements or staff might use 迎接 when referring to the arrival of VIPs or large tour groups. It sets a tone of professional hospitality that '接' alone lacks.

Media and News: News broadcasts are saturated with this word. Whenever a foreign diplomat arrives or a national hero (like an astronaut) returns, the narrator will describe the crowds '迎接' them.

成千上万的市民涌向街头，迎接奥运健儿凯旋。

In the workplace, 迎接 is used during orientation or when a new manager is appointed. You will see it on banners: '热烈迎接新同事' (Warmly welcome new colleagues). Here, it functions as a greeting that implies the current team is ready to integrate the newcomer. It is also used in strategic meetings when discussing how to '迎接' market changes or '迎接' a new fiscal year. It sounds more active and determined than simply 'preparing for' (准备) or 'facing' (面对).

Literature and Song: Lyrics often use '迎接' for dramatic effect, such as welcoming the morning sun or a new era of love. It adds a poetic weight to the action.

让我们张开双臂，迎接灿烂的明天。

Finally, in daily life, while casual friends might just say '我去接你' (I'll pick you up), using 迎接 in a text message to a partner or a respected elder shows a higher level of affection and effort. It suggests that their arrival is a significant event you have been looking forward to. For example, a child might say '我在门口迎接爸爸回家' (I am at the door welcoming/meeting Dad home), which sounds much sweeter and more enthusiastic than a simple 'waiting for.'

Festivals and Celebrations: Every major holiday in China involves '迎接' something—the moon during Mid-Autumn, the god of wealth during Spring Festival, or the new year.

家家户户都在打扫卫生，准备迎接春节。

The most frequent mistake learners make with 迎接 (yíngjiē) is confusing it with 欢迎 (huānyíng). While both translate to 'welcome' in English, their usage is quite different. 欢迎 is an expression of hospitality or a general state of being welcome (e.g., 'You are welcome here'), whereas 迎接 is the specific action of meeting someone upon arrival. You can '欢迎' someone without moving, but you usually '迎接' someone by going to them.

迎接 vs. 欢迎: Mistake: 我在机场欢迎你 (I welcome you at the airport - sounds like a sign). Correct: 我在机场迎接你 (I am meeting/welcoming you at the airport - the action of being there for you).

Incorrect: 我们欢迎新年的到来。(Too passive). Correct: 我们迎接新年的到来。

Another error involves the word 接 (jiē). Many students use 迎接 when a simple 接 would suffice, or vice versa. 接 is very functional—it's what you do when you pick someone up in a car. 迎接 is more ceremonial. If you are just picking up your laundry or a package, never use 迎接; it sounds absurdly formal, as if you are holding a parade for your dry cleaning. Use 取 (qǔ) or 拿 (ná) for objects, and 接 for routine pickups of people.

迎接 vs. 接: Mistake: 我去门口迎接我的快递 (I go to the door to ceremoniously welcome my express package). Correct: 我去门口拿我的快递。

Incorrect: 妈妈去学校迎接我放学。(Too formal for a daily task). Correct: 妈妈去学校接我放学。

Finally, watch out for the object placement. Some learners try to use '迎接' as an intransitive verb (a verb with no object). You cannot just say 'I am welcoming.' You must be welcoming *something* or *someone*. If you want to say 'The welcome was warm,' you must use the noun form or a different structure entirely. 迎接 is an action directed at a target. Also, ensure you don't confuse it with 送 (sòng - to see off), which is the exact opposite action.

Object Requirement: Always specify WHO or WHAT is being welcomed. Example: 迎接 + 宾客 (guests).

To truly master 迎接 (yíngjiē), you must see how it sits within a family of related terms. Each has a specific 'flavor' and level of formality. Choosing the right one makes your Chinese sound natural and precise.

欢迎 (huānyíng): This is the general 'welcome.' It can be a verb, a noun, or an adjective. Use it for 'Welcome to China' (欢迎来到中国) or 'You are welcome' (欢迎). It lacks the 'going out to meet' physical component of 迎接.
接 (jiē): The most common, everyday word for 'picking someone up.' If you are picking up a friend in your car, use this. It is functional and neutral.
接待 (jiēdài): This means 'to receive' or 'to host.' It is used in business or service contexts. A '接待员' is a receptionist. It focuses on the care and service provided to the guest after they arrive.

Comparison:
1. 我去迎接外宾 (I go to formally meet the foreign guests).
2. 我去接朋友 (I'm picking up my friend).
3. 酒店负责接待客人 (The hotel is responsible for hosting/receiving the guests).

For abstract concepts, you might also consider 面临 (miànlín) or 面对 (miànduì). While 迎接挑战 (welcoming a challenge) sounds positive and proactive, 面临挑战 (facing a challenge) is more neutral or even slightly negative, suggesting the challenge is an obstacle that has appeared before you. Use 迎接 when you want to sound like a winner who is ready for the fight.

迎面 (yíngmiàn): This is an adverb meaning 'head-on' or 'face-to-face.' It shares the '迎' root. Example: 迎面走来 (walking toward someone face-to-face).

Finally, consider 接见 (jiējiàn). This is a very specific type of 'receiving' where a person of high status (like a president or CEO) grants an audience to someone of lower status. You would never '迎接' your boss in his office; he would '接见' you. Understanding these power dynamics is key to using Chinese synonyms correctly.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient times, '迎接' wasn't just a polite gesture; it was a strict social requirement. The distance you traveled from your home to '迎接' someone indicated their status relative to yours.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /jɪŋ.dʒjeɪ/

US /jɪŋ.dʒjeɪ/

The stress is balanced, but the second syllable 'jiē' is often sustained longer in speech.

Rhymes With

京 (jīng) 情 (qíng) 明 (míng) 兵 (bīng) 星 (xīng) 街 (jiē) 姐 (jiě) 节 (jié)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'yíng' as 'yǐng' (third tone).
Pronouncing 'jiē' as 'jié' (second tone).
Mumbling the 'i' in 'jie'.
Treating it as one syllable.
Confusion with 'yǐng' (shadow).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The characters are distinct but common. Easy to recognize in context.

Writing 3/5

Both characters have several strokes, especially the '辶' and '妾' components.

Speaking 2/5

The tones are straightforward (2, 1), but the 'ie' sound in 'jie' needs practice.

Listening 2/5

Very common in news and formal announcements; easy to pick out.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

迎接去朋友客

Learn Next

接待接见挑战机遇仪式

Advanced

恭候接风洗尘洗耳恭听虚位以待

Grammar to Know

Resultative Verb Compounds

Although 迎接 is a compound, it functions as a single verb unit.

Object Placement

The object always follows 迎接 (e.g., 迎接挑战).

Adverbial Modifiers

Adverbs like '热烈' or '积极' go before 迎接.

The 'Arrival' Construction

Using '...的到来' as the object to make the sentence formal.

Serial Verb Construction

Using '去/来 + [Place] + 迎接' (e.g., 我去机场迎接你).

Examples by Level

我去门口迎接你。

I go to the door to welcome you.

Subject + Go to [Place] + 迎接 + Object.

我们迎接老师。

We welcome the teacher.

Simple transitive verb usage.

迎接新年！

Welcome the New Year!

Verb + Object (Holiday).

他在车站迎接朋友。

He is at the station welcoming a friend.

Location + 迎接.

小狗迎接我回家。

The puppy welcomes me home.

Personified subject.

大家迎接客人。

Everyone welcomes the guests.

Plural subject.

迎接春天。

Welcome spring.

Abstract time object.

我去迎接爸爸。

I am going to welcome Dad.

Intentional action.

我们要热烈迎接新同学。

We should warmly welcome the new classmates.

Adverb (热烈) + 迎接.

他在机场迎接远方的客人。

He is welcoming guests from far away at the airport.

Descriptive object (远方的客人).

全家人都在准备迎接春节。

The whole family is preparing to welcome the Spring Festival.

准备 + 迎接.

我准时去门口迎接你。

I will go to the door on time to welcome you.

Adverb of time (准时).

迎接新的一天。

Welcome a new day.

Common poetic phrase.

学校准备了活动迎接校友。

The school prepared activities to welcome alumni.

Purpose clause.

他们排队迎接贵宾。

They are lining up to welcome the VIPs.

Manner of action (排队).

迎接冬天的第一场雪。

Welcome the first snow of winter.

Specific event object.

面对困难，我们要勇敢迎接挑战。

Facing difficulties, we must bravely meet the challenge.

迎接 + 挑战 (Abstract).

公司正在迎接新的发展机遇。

The company is welcoming new development opportunities.

迎接 + 机遇 (Business context).

他满怀信心地迎接考试。

He is meeting the exam with full confidence.

Prepositional phrase for mood (满怀信心地).

我们要以最好的状态迎接比赛。

We should meet the competition in our best state.

以...状态 + 迎接.

迎接二十一世纪的到来。

Welcome the arrival of the 21st century.

迎接...的到来.

全城的人都在迎接英雄凯旋。

The whole city is welcoming the heroes' triumphant return.

Formal/Literary object (凯旋).

他站在雨中迎接他的爱人。

He stood in the rain to welcome his lover.

Descriptive setting.

我们需要改变来迎接市场的变化。

We need to change to welcome the market changes.

迎接 as a purpose.

礼兵们整齐地排列，迎接外国元首。

The guard of honor lined up neatly to welcome the foreign head of state.

Formal diplomatic register.

我们需要调整策略，以迎接未来的挑战。

We need to adjust our strategy to meet future challenges.

Strategic business usage.

这首诗表达了诗人迎接光明的决心。

This poem expresses the poet's determination to welcome the light.

迎接 as a gerund/noun-like object.

全校师生举行了盛大的仪式迎接校庆。

The teachers and students held a grand ceremony to welcome the school anniversary.

Formal event context.

我们要做好充分准备，迎接数字化转型的到来。

We must make full preparations to welcome the arrival of digital transformation.

Complex abstract object.

他在村口迎接失散多年的兄弟。

He welcomed his long-lost brother at the village entrance.

Emotional narrative context.

迎接新生命的诞生是一件神圣的事。

Welcoming the birth of a new life is a sacred thing.

Profound/Philosophical usage.

各部门要通力合作，迎接上级的检查。

All departments must work together to welcome (meet) the inspection from superiors.

Administrative register.

我们要以开放的姿态迎接全球化的浪潮。

We should welcome the wave of globalization with an open posture.

Metaphorical/Sociopolitical usage.

这些改革是为了迎接一个更加公平的社会。

These reforms are for the purpose of welcoming a fairer society.

Abstract ideal as object.

他用一生去迎接那个迟到的梦想。

He used his whole life to welcome that belated dream.

Poetic/Existential usage.

在历史的长河中，我们不断地迎接变革。

In the long river of history, we constantly welcome changes.

Historical/Academic register.

迎接黎明前的黑暗需要极大的勇气。

Welcoming the darkness before dawn requires great courage.

Paradoxical literary usage.

他那谦逊的态度足以迎接任何批评。

His humble attitude is enough to welcome (receive) any criticism.

迎接 + 批评 (Abstract receipt).

我们要积极迎接科学技术的飞速发展。

We must actively welcome the rapid development of science and technology.

Technological context.

这种文化包容性使我们能够迎接多元的思想。

This cultural inclusiveness allows us to welcome diverse thoughts.

Intellectual/Philosophical context.

此番举措意在迎接消费结构升级带来的新命题。

This move is intended to address the new propositions brought by the upgrading of consumption structures.

High-level economic analysis.

他以一种近乎虔诚的姿态迎接命运的审判。

He welcomed the judgment of fate with a posture bordering on the devout.

Literary/Theological register.

在迎接新纪元之际，我们需反思过去的得失。

On the occasion of welcoming a new era, we need to reflect on past gains and losses.

Formal rhetorical structure.

其作品中流露出一种迎接寂寞的冷峻美感。

His works reveal a cold aesthetic of welcoming loneliness.

Aesthetic/Critical analysis.

为了迎接这一历史性时刻，政府筹备了数年之久。

To welcome this historic moment, the government prepared for several years.

State-level formal register.

我们要以审慎的态度迎接人工智能时代的全面降临。

We must welcome the full arrival of the AI era with a cautious attitude.

Contemporary intellectual discourse.

迎接挑战不仅仅是勇气的体现，更是智慧的博弈。

Welcoming challenges is not just a manifestation of courage, but also a game of wisdom.

Philosophical comparison.

他站在时代的潮头，迎接风浪的洗礼。

Standing at the forefront of the times, he welcomed the baptism of wind and waves.

Highly metaphorical/Idiomatic.

Common Collocations

迎接挑战

迎接新年

迎接客人

迎接到来

热烈迎接

迎接检查

迎接未来

迎接挑战者

出门迎接

迎接新生命

Common Phrases

迎接挑战

— To take on a difficult task with a positive attitude.

作为一个团队，我们准备好迎接挑战。

迎接新年

— To celebrate the start of a new year.

迎接新年的钟声响了。

热烈迎接

— To welcome someone with great enthusiasm.

当地居民热烈迎接医疗队。

迎接未来

— To look forward to and prepare for what is to come.

迎接未来需要创新精神。

迎接春天

— To celebrate the end of winter and the start of spring.

迎接春天，万物复苏。

迎接贵宾

— To formally receive very important people.

饭店经理亲自迎接贵宾。

迎接挑战者

— To face an opponent in a competition.

卫冕冠军正在迎接挑战者。

迎接黎明

— To wait for the sunrise, often metaphorical.

在黑暗中迎接黎明的到来。

迎接新同事

— To greet and integrate a new employee.

我们开了一个小会迎接新同事。

迎接校庆

— To prepare for a school's anniversary celebration.

学生们忙着排练节目，迎接校庆。

Often Confused With

迎接 vs 欢迎

Welcome as a sentiment vs. the action of meeting.

迎接 vs 接

Routine pickup vs. ceremonial welcome.

迎接 vs 接待

The act of meeting vs. the act of hosting/serving.

Idioms & Expressions

"迎刃而解"

— To be solved easily (like a knife meeting a bamboo joint).

有了他的帮助，问题迎刃而解。

Idiomatic

"曲意逢迎"

— To go out of one's way to curry favor with someone.

他总是对老板曲意逢迎。

Negative

"倒屣相迎"

— To welcome a guest so hurriedly that one puts shoes on the wrong feet.

听说老友来访，他倒屣相迎。

Literary

"迎头赶上"

— To catch up quickly (meeting the head).

我们要努力工作，迎头赶上先进水平。

Encouraging

"迎风招展"

— To flutter in the wind (like a flag).

红旗在广场上迎风招展。

Descriptive

"迎新弃旧"

— To welcome the new and abandon the old.

这种迎新弃旧的行为是不对的。

Critical

"迎合口味"

— To cater to someone's tastes.

这个节目是为了迎合年轻人的口味。

Neutral

"迎风流泪"

— Eyes watering in the wind.

我一出门就迎风流泪。

Medical/Physical

"迎刃而理"

— Similar to 迎刃而解, to handle things smoothly.

他处理事务总是迎刃而理。

Formal

"迎神赛会"

— Festivals to welcome gods.

村里正在举行迎神赛会。

Cultural

Easily Confused

迎接 vs 欢迎

Both translate to 'welcome'.

欢迎 is the state/sentiment; 迎接 is the action of going to meet.

欢迎光临 (Welcome!) vs. 我去迎接你 (I'm coming to meet you).

迎接 vs 接待

Both involve guests.

接待 is what you do after they arrive (hosting); 迎接 is what you do when they arrive.

他在大厅迎接客人，然后开始接待工作。

迎接 vs 接见

Both involve 'meeting'.

接见 implies a status difference (higher meets lower); 迎接 is about hospitality.

总统接见了记者。 (The president received the reporters).

迎接 vs 面临

Both used with 'challenges'.

面临 is passive (a challenge is in front of you); 迎接 is proactive (you go to meet the challenge).

面临困难 vs. 迎接挑战。

迎接 vs 遭遇

Both mean 'meeting' something.

遭遇 is for accidents or bad luck; 迎接 is for planned or positive events.

遭遇车祸 (met with an accident) vs. 迎接新年。

Sentence Patterns

我迎接[Person]。

我迎接老师。

我去[Place]迎接[Person]。

我去车站迎接奶奶。

我们迎接[Holiday]。

我们迎接春节。

[Subject]准备迎接[Challenge]。

我们准备迎接新的挑战。

[Subject][Adverb]地迎接[Object]。

他热情地迎接每一个客人。

迎接[Event]的到来。

迎接新时代的到来。

以[Attitude]的姿态迎接[Abstract Object]。

以开放的姿态迎接全球化。

迎接[Historical Moment]的洗礼。

迎接历史洪流的洗礼。

Word Family

Nouns

迎接仪式 (Welcoming ceremony)

迎接人员 (Reception staff)

Verbs

迎 (To meet)

接 (To receive)

欢迎 (To welcome)

迎合 (To cater to)

Adjectives

欢迎的 (Welcome/Popular)

接待

接见

接送

迎新

迎亲

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in both written and spoken formal Chinese.

Common Mistakes

Using '迎接' for picking up a pizza. → 我去拿披萨。
迎接 is for people or significant events, not food.
Saying '欢迎新年' instead of '迎接新年'. → 迎接新年。
迎接 is the standard way to talk about the transition into a new time period.
Using '迎接' as a greeting (like 'Welcome!'). → 欢迎！
迎接 is an action verb, not an interjection.
Confusing '迎接' (welcome) with '迎面' (head-on). → 迎接客人 vs 迎面走来。
迎接 is the verb; 迎面 is the adverb.
Forgetting the object. → 我在迎接你。
迎接 is transitive and needs a target.

Tips

The Arrival Pattern

Always try to use '迎接...的到来' for formal writing. It sounds much more professional than just the verb and object.

Show Respect

Using '迎接' instead of '接' when talking to elders about meeting them shows you care a lot about their visit.

Proactive vs Passive

Use '迎接' when you want to show you are in control of a situation, especially with challenges.

Tone Accuracy

Make sure 'yíng' rises clearly. If you use a flat tone, it might sound like 'yīng' (eagle).

Radical Check

The 'walking' radical in '迎' is key. It reminds you that this word involves movement.

Expand your range

Learn '迎刃而解' alongside '迎接'. It uses the same '迎' and is very common.

Airport Etiquette

If you are meeting a client at the airport, say '我是来迎接您的' to sound extremely professional.

News Keywords

When you hear '迎接' on the news, listen for who the guest is. It's a great way to learn names of countries and leaders.

Avoid for Objects

Don't '迎接' your lunch. Just '拿' (take) or '取' (get) it.

Hospitality

In Chinese culture, '迎接' is a verb of action. It means being there physically.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Ying' as a person 'Walking' (辶) to 'Meet' a guest. Think of 'Jie' as using your 'Hand' (扌) to 'Receive' them. Walking + Receiving = 迎接.

Visual Association

Imagine yourself standing at an airport arrivals gate holding a sign. You are 'Ying-ing' (meeting) and 'Jie-ing' (taking) them home.

Word Web

迎接客人新年挑战机场准备欢迎接待

Challenge

Try to use '迎接' in three different ways today: once for a person, once for a time (like dinner), and once for a task.

Word Origin

The character '迎' (yíng) consists of '辶' (walking) and '卬' (to look up/person). It originally meant to look up and wait for someone, then evolved to mean going out to meet them. '接' (jiē) consists of '扌' (hand) and '妾' (to receive/connect). Together, they form the concept of moving toward someone to receive them with your hands.

Original meaning: To go out to meet a guest with respect.

Sino-Tibetan

Cultural Context

Be careful using '迎接' for people you dislike, as it implies a level of honor or eagerness.

In English, 'welcome' is often a word you say. In Chinese, '迎接' is something you DO. It requires presence and action.

The song 'Beijing Welcomes You' (北京欢迎你) uses a related concept. Ancient poems often describe '迎接' the moon. News reports on the return of Shenzhou astronauts.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Airport/Station

我在出口迎接你
接机口迎接
举牌迎接
准时迎接

New Year/Festival

迎接新春
迎接元旦
张灯结彩迎接
迎接财神

Work/Office

迎接新CEO
迎接考察团
迎接审计
迎接新任务

Personal Life

迎接女友
迎接新生儿
迎接战友
迎接老邻居

Sports/Competition

迎接挑战者
迎接决赛
迎接对手
迎接胜利

Conversation Starters

"你一般怎么迎接你的好朋友？"

"你准备好迎接明天的挑战了吗？"

"你们国家是怎么迎接新年的？"

"你觉得去机场迎接客人重要吗？"

"你最想迎接谁来你的城市旅游？"

Journal Prompts

写一写你最近一次去迎接别人的经历。

如果你要迎接一位重要的客人，你会做哪些准备？

描述一下你迎接新年的心情。

谈谈你如何勇敢地迎接生活中的挑战。

想象一下未来，你希望迎接什么样的自己？

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Usually no. Use '取' (qǔ) or '拿' (ná). 迎接 is for people or events.

Yes, it is more formal and specific to the act of meeting.

Yes, but it makes you sound brave and ready to fight.

'接' is like 'pick up' in a car. '迎接' is like a 'welcome ceremony'.

Use '欢迎来到我们学校'. '迎接' wouldn't fit there as a greeting.

No, it is primarily a verb. Use '欢迎仪式' for a 'welcome ceremony'.

Not really. Slang would just use the very simple '接' (jiē).

Yes, like '迎接暴风雨' (welcoming the storm), often metaphorically.

You can say '迎接了', but it's less common than just using the verb.

Yes, very often for welcoming delegations or new market phases.