Key Learning Points (Preview):

拳头 (quántou) n. fist

祝贺 (zhùhè) n. congratulations

Holding fist is a form of greeting, usually used by men, with one clenched fist cradled in the other hand and held at chest level. It is a traditional custom in China and is used to express "祝贺 (zhùhè) congratulations" and good "愿望 (yuànwàng) wishes."
In modern China, holding fist is widely used in business situations. So, the way to properly hold fist is just like this: standing upright, hold the right hand (in fist) with the left hand and rock them up and down slightly at roughly chest level. Please see the following picture.

In China, expressing regards through holding fist is often used in the following three situations.

1. At every major event or holiday, such as "春节 (chūnjié) Spring Festival." We often show regards through holding fist when we meet our "邻居 (línju) neighbors," "朋友 (péngyou) friends" or "同事 (tóngshì) colleagues."

2. On festive occasions, such as "婚礼 (hūnlǐ) weddings" or birthday parties, the "客人 (kèrén) guests" can hold fist to congratulate the "主人 (zhǔrén) hosts."

3. At farewell parties, people often hold fist while saying "Take care!" to each other. Occasionally, we hold fist to request forgiveness.

When we show our regards through holding fist, we also use special words and expressions, such as: "节日快乐 (jiérì kuàilè) Happy holidays," "恭喜 (gōngxǐ) congratulations" or "久仰 (jiǔyǎng) I've heard so much about you."

Key Learning Points:

拳头 (quántou) n. fist

Tā yòng quántou qīngqing dǎ le yí xià wǒ.
他   用      拳头        轻轻     打 了一下 我。

He hit me lightly with his fist.

祝贺 (zhùhè) n. congratulations

    Zhùhè nín, jīnglǐ, wǒmen de xīn xiàngmù hěn chénggōng.
A: 祝贺     您，经理，我们    的  新    项目     很       成功!

   Congratulations to our manager, our new project has been very successful.

    Xièxiè dàjiā de nǔlì.
B: 谢谢   大家 的努力。

   Thanks everybody for working so hard.

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Zhōngguó bèi yùwéi "lǐyízhībāng."
中国           被   誉为 “礼仪之邦”。
Wúlùn zài rìcháng shēnghuó háishì shāngwù huódòng zhōng,
无论    在   日常      生活         还是     商务          活动        中，
Zhōngguórén yìzhí dōu hěn zhùyì lǐyí.
中国人           一直   都   很   注意 礼仪。

China is known as the "state of ceremonies." No matter whether it's in daily life or business activities, all Chinese people pay attention to etiquette.

Shūxìn shì shāngwù jiāoliú hěn zhòngyào de yíbùfen,
书信     是   商务        交流   很    重要        的 一部分，
ér chēnghū shì shūxìn de dìyī bùfen. Qiàdàng de
而 称呼       是   书信    的 第一 部分。恰当      的
chēnghū huì gěi dúxìn de rén liúxia shēnkè de yìnxiang.
称呼        会  给   读信   的 人  留下    深刻    的   印象。

Salutations are among the most important elements of business communication. In a formal letter, the salutation occurs first. An appropriate salutation can create a good impression for the letter's reader.

Zài zhōngwén shūxìn zhōng,
在  中文           书信      中，
chēnghū shì duì shōuxìn rén de zūnchēng.
称呼         是  对   收信     人   的  尊称。
Rúhé chēnghū zhǔyào yījù xiānghù jiān de guānxì érdìng.
如何   称呼         主要   依据  相互     间  的  关系     而定。

In Chinese letters, salutations are usually the honorific titles of the reader. The relationship between the addresser and the addressee primarily determines what kind of honorific is used.

Zhōngwén shūxìn zhōng de chēnghū yìbān dōu yǐ "jìngyǔ + chēngwèi"
中文            书信     中     的   称呼       一般   都  以 "敬语 ＋ 称谓"
de xíngshì chūxiàn. Zhōngwén shūxìn zhōng de
的 形式      出现。   中文           书信      中     的
chēnghū dōushì dǐnggé xiě, hòu jiā màohào.
称呼        都是      顶格   写，后   加  冒号。

Salutations in Chinese are usually written using the following form: "honorific + title." Furthermore, they are written on the left hand side of the page, beginning in the first space and then followed by a colon.

Duì bùtóng guānxi de rén yào shǐyòng bùtóng de jìngyǔ.
对   不同      关系    的 人   要    使用     不同     的   敬语。

Chinese use a variety of honorifics to reflect the different relationships in people's lives.

Case and Examples:

Case 1.

Duì shàngjí
对  上级

Salutations Used When Greeting a Superior

"Jìng'ài de + xìngmíng:"
“敬爱 的+    姓名：”

"Respected + name:"

       Jìng'ài de Wáng Lì:
e.g. 敬爱     的 王力：

       Respected Wang Li:

Case 2.

Duì tóngjí
对   同级

Salutations Used When Greeting a Colleague

"Qīn'ài de + xìngmíng:"
“亲爱 的+  姓名：”

"Dear + name:"

         Qīn'ài de Liú Yīng:
  e.g.  亲爱 的 刘英：

        Dear Liu Ying:

Case 3.

Biǎoshì zhèngzhòng
表示       郑重

Showing Respect When Writing Names in Salutations

1) "Zūnjìng de + xìng + zhíwèi:"
1）  “尊敬的+  姓     + 职位：”

"Honorable + surname + occupation title:"

     Zūnjìng de Wáng jīnglǐ:
e.g.尊敬     的  王      经理：

    Honorable Manager Wang:

      Zūnjìng de Wáng lǎoshī:
e.g. 尊敬     的 王       老师：

      Honorable Teacher Wang:

2) "Zūnjìng de + xìng + xiānsheng/nǚshì:"
2）  “尊敬 的+姓      +先生/女士：”

    "Honorable + surname + Sir/ Madam:"

      Zūnjìng de Lǐ nǚshì:
 e.g. 尊敬    的 李女士：

      Honorable Madam Li:

Case 4.

Biǎoshì fēicháng zhèngzhòng
表示       非常        郑重

Showing Very High Respect When Writing Names in Salutations

1) "Zūnjìng de + zhíwèi + xìng + xiānsheng/nǚshì + jìngqǐ:"
1）“尊敬的    +职位      +姓      +先生/女士            +敬启：”

   Honorable + occupation title + surname + Sir/Madam + please open:

     Zūnjìng de zhǔguǎn Zhōu xiānsheng jìngqǐ:
e.g. 尊敬     的 主管        周        先生       敬启：

    Honorable Supervisor Mr. Zhou, please open:

2)  "Zūnjìng de + zhíwèi + xìng + xiānsheng/nǚshì + zūnjiàn:"
2）“尊敬   的  +职位      +姓     +先生/女士             +尊鉴：”

    Honorable + occupation title + surname + Sir/Madam + respectfully discerned:

  Zūnjìng de kēzhǎng Mǎ xiānsheng zūnjiàn:
e.g. 尊敬  的  科长       马  先生           尊鉴：

    Honorable Section Chief Mr. Ma, respectfully discerned:

3) "Zūnjìng de + zhíwèi + xìng + xiānsheng/nǚshì +yǎjiàn:"
3）“尊敬    的+职位      +姓     +先生/女士             +雅鉴：”

   Honorable + occupation title + surname + Sir/Madam + elegantly discerned:

    Zūnjìng de jīnglǐ Wáng nǚshìyǎjiàn:
e.g. 尊敬   的 经理 王    女士    雅鉴：

    Honorable Manager Miss Wang, elegantly discerned:

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary

被誉为 (bèi yùwéi) to be well-known as

敬启 (jìngqǐ) please open

尊鉴 (zūnjiàn) respectfully discerned

雅鉴 (yǎjiàn) elegantly discerned

More Mandarin Lessons on Business Topics:

Mandarin Lesson: "Hang up a Phone Call" Helps You Learn Business Etiquette

Online Mandarin Lesson Helps You Learn Business Etiquette: Make a Phone Call

Learn Business Greetings Through an Online Mandarin Lesson

Learn Taboos of Giving Business Gifts in China Through a Business Mandarin Lesson.
 

Got questions on this Mandarin lesson? Take a one-on-one online Mandarin lesson with a native Chinese teacher now!

商务用语 (shāngwù yòngyǔ) Business vocabulary

Listen to the whole passage

Look at the short business report:

Jìn jǐ nián lái, rénmínbì huìlǜ wèntí chéngwéi guónèiwài guānzhù de jiāodiǎn.
近 几年 来，人民币     汇率 问题    成为         国内外      关注      的     焦点。

In recent years, governments around the world have taken notice of China's currency policy.

Zài èrlínglíngwǔ nián qī yuè èrshíyī rì de huìlǜ gǎigé zhōng,
在   2005           年     7  月   21      日 的  汇率 改革   中，

When the Chinese government changed its exchange rate policy on July 21^st 2005,

Zhōngguó kāishǐ cǎiyòng gèng wéi línghuó de "yǐ shìchǎng wéi jīchǔ de,
中国           开始   采用      更      为    灵活   的”以 市场      为   基础 的、
cānkǎo yìlánzi huòbì jìnxíng tiáozhěng de, yǒu guǎnlǐ de fúdòng huìlǜ zhìdù,"
参考     一篮子 货币 进行      调整        的、有    管理  的 浮动    汇率 制度”，
ér búshì dāndān dīng zhù měiyuán.
而 不是 单单       盯     住   美元。

they began taking steps towards adopting an exchange rate regime that is more flexible and market based. However, it would also be managed with a basket of several currencies in mind, not just the US dollar.

Cǐhòu, rénmínbì duì měiyuán zài wēifú bōdòng zhōng,
此后，人民币     对    美元       在    微幅   波动     中，
yǐ měinián yuē bǎifēnzhī sìdiǎnsān de fúdù kuàisù shēngzhí, bìngqiě chéng jiāsù qūshì.
以每年     约      4.3%                     的  幅度   快速         升值，并且     呈        加速   趋势。

Since that meeting, the Chinese renminbi has been appreciating little by little against the US dollar, at an average rate of about 4.3% per year. But over time, the rate of appreciation has shown a tendency to accelerate.

术语 (shùyǔ): Glossary

汇率 (huìlǜ): n. exchange rate

汇率改革 (huìlǜ gǎigé): n. reform of exchange rate

以市场为基础的 (yǐ shìchǎng wéi jīchǔ de): adj. market based

一篮子货币 (yìlánzi huòbì): n. a basket of currencies

词汇 (cihuì): Vocabulary

浮动 (fúdòng): v. to float / n. float

采用 (cǎiyòng): v. to adopt

调整 (tiáozhěng): v. to adjust

微幅波动 (wēifúbōdòng): slight fluctuations

约 (yuē): adv. about

升值 (shēngzhí): v. to appreciate / n. appreciation

呈……趋势 (chéng…qūshì): v. to show an… tendency

符号 (fúhào) Notation

"%" – the percent sign
In Chinese, the percent sign "%" is read "bǎifēnhào."  The way we write and read it is "百分之 (bǎifēnzhī)." For example, the way we say "ten percent" is "百分之十 (bǎifēnzhīshí)."

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品牌 (pǐnpái): n. brand

吸引 (xīyǐn): v. to attract

印象 (yìnxiang): n. impression

It is important for foreign brands to have a Chinese name as it enters the Chinese market. How do companies translate their names? How do they make the names attractive? Do they use transliteration or free translation? Some companies skillfully integrate these two translation methods in order to create an attractive brand name for Chinese consumers. A good brand name can help produce a good impression of a product. In this online Chinese lesson, let's learn how brand names are translated from English to Chinese.

BENZ 奔驰 (Bēnchí)

"奔" and "驰" both mean "run fast" in Chinese.
To drive a BENZ means to enjoy high speeds.

HUMMER 悍马 (Hànmǎ)

"悍" means "strong," and "马" means "horse." In Chinese culture, horses are known for their honesty and endurance.
HUMMER vehicles will be honest and constant friends.

ACCORD 雅阁 (Yǎgé)

"雅" means "nice and elegant." "阁" refers to "cabinet."
An ACCORD offers a harmonious and comfortable drive.

TISSOT 天梭 (Tiānsuō)

"天" refers to nature. "梭" is a piece in watches.
The workmanship in TISSOT watches is wonderful.

MASTER万事达 (Wànshìdá)

"万事" means all the things, and "达" means to achieve.
With MASTER products, everything will be successful.

CARREFOUR 家乐福 (Jiālèfú)

"家" refers to family. "福" means blessing.
"CARREFOUR" hopes each family is happy.

COCA COLA 可口可乐 (Kěkǒukělè)

"可口" means tasty, and "乐" means happy.
COCA COLA satisfies thirst and makes people happy.

Pepsi Cola 百事可乐 (Bǎishìkělè) 

While drinking PEPSI, everything is enjoyable.

Key Learning Points:

品牌 (pǐnpái): n. brand

Example:

Bǎomǎ shì yí gè zhīmíng de qìchē pǐnpái.
宝马      是 一个 知名      的   汽车 品牌。

BMW is a well-known car brand.

吸引 (xīyǐn): v. to attract

Example:

Zhōngguó de Chángchéng xīyǐn le hěn duō yóukè.
中国           的 长城             吸引了 很   多   游客。

The Great Wall of China attracts a lot of tourists.

印象 (yìnxiang): n. impression

Example:

Nǐ duì Zhōngguó de dì yī yìnxiang shì shénme?
你 对 中国          的 第一 印象      是    什么？

What was your first impression of China?

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Key Learning Points (Preview):

帮忙(bāngmáng): v. to help

转达(zhuǎndá): v. to convey

近日(jìnrì): adv. soon

As we all know, proper telephone etiquette is an important part of maintaining harmonious business relationships. Do you know how to politely end a telephone conversation in Chinese? Ending a telephone conversation politely will help you make a good impression. Let's start our Chinese lesson about how to hang up a phone call now!

1. To a close friend
If you are familiar with the person, you can end the conversation by saying:

Hái yǒu shénme wǒ kěyǐ bāngmáng de ma?
 还 有      什么    我 可以     帮忙      的  吗？

Is there anything else I can help you with?

2. To a friend (but you are unfamiliar with his/her family)
If you know the person but are unfamiliar with his/her family, you should say:

Qǐng dài wǒ xiàng nǐ  de jiārén wèn hǎo.
 请     代  我    向   你 的  家人    问   好。

Please send your family my best regards.

3. To convey a message
When someone asks to leave a message, you can say:

Wǒ yídìng tì  nín zhuǎndá.
 我   一定 替 您    转达。

I will make sure he/she gets your message.

4. To a customer
If your customer calls, you can say:

Xièxie nín dǎ diànhuà lái.
 谢谢   您   打  电话     来。

Thanks for calling,

Hěn gāoxìng yǔ nín tōnghuà.
 很       高兴   与  您     通话。

It's a pleasure to speak with you.

Xīwàng jìnrì nénggòu jiànmiàn.
  希望   近日  能够         见面。

I hope we will meet soon.

This is considered to be both polite and modest.
 
Key Learning Points:

帮忙(bāngmáng): v. to help

Example:

Wáng lǎoshī, qǐng nín bāngmáng fānyì   yí xià dì wǔ  kè.
  王       老师，请    您        帮忙     翻译  一 下 第 五 课。

Mr. Wang, please help me translate lesson five.
 
转达(zhuǎndá): v. to convey

Example:

Qǐng xiàng nǐ  fùqīn zhuǎndá wǒ de xiè  yì.
  请    向     你 父亲    转达    我  的  谢 意。

Please convey my gratitude to your father.

近日(jìnrì): adv. soon

Example:

Xīwàng jìnrì néng dédào nín de huífù.
 希望    近日  能     得到    您 的 回复。

Hope to hear from you soon.

Learn more businessChineselessons:
Business Chineselessons: 商务电话礼仪 Business Etiquette—Make a phone call
Business Chineselessons: 商务问候 Business Greetings
Business Chineselessons: 商务问候礼仪 Business Greeting Etiquette
Business Chineselessons: 商务介绍礼仪 Business Etiquette–Business Card Exchanges and Introduction

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Key learning points (preview):

财富 (cáifù) n. fortune

捐献 (juānxiàn) v. to donate

面对面 (miànduìmiàn) adv. face to face

In June 2010, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett launched a "行动 (xíngdòng) campaign" which calls on billionaires to pledge to "捐献 (juānxiàn) donate" at least half of their "财富 (cáifù) fortunes" to "慈善事业 (císhàn shìyè) charity." So far, 40 of the world's richest individuals and families from USA have taken the "誓言 (shìyán) pledge." Buffett said, "We hope that other countries will also follow suit. If they feel like what we're doing is worthwhile and would like to put it into practice, then we're all very excited about that prospect."

In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Buffett disclosed that at the end of September, he and Bill Gates will come to China and speak to China's richest people “面对面 (miànduìmiàn) face to face.”

Some analysts believe the main reason why China has become the first overseas target of their "donation pledge" is the rapidly growing number of rich Chinese people. However, most Chinese people are skeptical, because Chinese wealthy seem not like to show off their wealth directly. According to "统计 (tǒngjì) statistics," each year, 75% of charity in China comes from "国外 (guówài) abroad," 15% comes from China's rich, 10% comes from common people, and donations from businesses only account for 1%.

Key learning points:

财富 (cáifù) n. fortune

"财" means "wealth" and "富" means "rich."

 Example:

Yōngyǒu cáifù bìng  bù  yídìng xìngfú.
  拥有       财富  并     不   一定    幸福。

Possessing wealth won't necessarily make one happy.

捐献 (juānxiàn) v. to donate

"捐" means to give without concern for return. "献" means to present respectfully and solemnly.

Example:

Tā  bǎ  tā  de suǒyǒu zhēncáng juānxiàn gěile  guójiā bówùguǎn.
 他 把 他  的    所有      珍藏         捐献     给了     国家   博物馆。

He donated all of his treasure to the national museum.

面对面 (miànduìmiàn) adv. face to face

This word is easy to understand. "面" means "face" and "对" is a preposition which is identical to "to."

Example:

Wǒ zài wǎng shàng gēn Zhōngguó de lǎoshī  xué shāngwù hànyǔ,
 我 在     网     上      跟      中国      的    老师   学      商务     汉语，
jiù gēn miànduìmiàn jiāotán yíyàng!
就 跟       面对面        交谈     一样！

I learn business Chinese online with a native Chinese teacher. It's the just like talking face-to-face!

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary

行动 (xíngdòng): n. campaign

统计 (tǒngjì): n. statistic

国外 (guówài): adv. abroad

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Key Learning Points (Preview):

销售(xiāoshòu): n. sale

消费(xiāofèi): v. to consume

For Android, a mobile operating system developed by Google, the year of 2010 has been explosive. The global "销售(xiāoshòu) sales" of Apple's iPhone have been overtaken by the multitude of phones using Google's Android system in the second quarter. The Android system has become the third most popular operating system of  "智能手机(zhìnéng shǒujī) smart mobile phones."

Android is getting popular in China now and is also easier for Chinese people to use. Compared with iPhone, the open platform of Android is more in accord with the "消费(xiāofèi) consuming" habits in China. iPhone users can only "下载(xiàzǎi) download" applications through the Apple Store, but it is more difficult for Chinese people to use the iPhone because they are more sensitive to pricing and do not often use international credit cards. However, Android has provided more ways for Chinese people to download applications and "软件(ruǎnjiàn) software" through Android's Market Place, which is open to all developers. Considering how vital access to applications is to users of smart mobile phones around the world, it is no wonder that Android is now gaining ground in China as well as in the rest of the world.

Key Learning Points:

销售(xiāoshòu): n. sale

Example:
   Tīngshuō nǐmen gōngsī jīnnián de xiāoshòu yèjì  tèbié hǎo.
A:  听说       你们    公司     今年   的     销售    业绩  特别 好。

I heard that the sales of your company were very good this year.

   Shì a, míngtiān wǒmen yào yì qǐ qìngzhù ne.
B:是 啊，明天      我们     要 一 起  庆祝     呢。

Yes, we will celebrate it tomorrow.

消费(xiāofèi): v. to consume

Example:
   Nín hǎo, nín běncì zǒnggòng xiāofèile wǔbǎi yuán. Huānyíng xià cì zài lái.
A: 您 好，您    本次    总共        消费了    500    元。      欢迎    下 次 再 来。

Hello, you have consumed a total of 500 Yuan this time. Please come again.

    Hǎo de, xièxiè.
B:  好 的，谢谢。

Okay, thanks.

Business Chinese Vocabulary:

智能手机(zhìnéng shǒujī): n. smart phone

下载(xiàzǎi): v. to download

软件(ruǎnjiàn): n. software

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Key learning points preview:

商务电话 (shāngwù diànhuà): n make a call for business purpose

保持联系 (bǎochí liánxì): v to keep in touch

Making a phone call sometimes is the first step in building business relationships and can have important impact on the success or failure of such relationships.

 In the context of business Chinese, when you make the first contact, the first sentence should be “喂，您好！(wèi, nínhǎo!) How do you do?” We usually don’t use “你好 (nǐhǎo),” which means hello, because “您 (nín)” shows more respect than “你 (nĭ)” does, and is often used to call those who are older or with higher ranks.

Another etiquette in the context of business Chinese: when receiving a phone call and not knowing who is calling, we often use “请问您是哪位 (qǐng wèn nín shì nǎ wèi) may I know who is speaking please?” But in daily conversations, we often use a less respectable form: “你找谁 (nǐ zhǎo shuí) whom are you calling?” “请问 (qǐng wèn) may I ask… please?” shows that you are polite and have a good manner. “哪位 (nǎ wèi)” and “谁 (shuí)” both mean who. “哪 (nǎ)” in this sentence means which, “位 (wèi)” is a measure word. “你找谁 (nǐ zhǎo shuí)” is used in daily Chinese and the tone is not so polite.

When you are ready to hung up the phone, you can say:

Zàijiàn, hěn gāoxìng hé nín zài diànhuà zhōng gōutōng, bǎochí liánxì.
  再见， 很     高兴   和 您 在    电话      中        沟通，     保持 联系。

Goodbye, nice to talk with you on the phone, and keep in touch.

 Key learning points:

 商务电话 (shāngwù diànhuà): n make a call for business purpose

“商务 (shāngwù)” means business and “电话 (diànhuà)” means telephone or phone call.

Example:

Shāngwù diànhuà yào jíshí huífù.
      商务       电话   要   及时  回复。

Business calls should be returned timely.

 保持联系 (bǎochí liánxì): v to keep in touch

“保持 (bǎochí)” means to keep and “联系 (liánxì)” means contact.

Example:

Guì gōngsī de dǎyìnjī yàngpǐn fúhé wǒmen de yāoqiú,
贵    公司    的 打印机   样品    符合   我们  的    要求，

zhè shì wǒ de míngpiàn, bǎochí liánxì.
这    是  我 的     名片，   保持     联系。

The sample printer offered by your company can meet our requirements. Here is my name card, keep in touch.

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Speaking Chinese in a business setting is often challenging. Let's see a dialogue below.

Key Learning Points (Preview):

你 (nĭ) and 您 (nín): pron you

第一天上班 Dì yī tiān shàngbān First day of work

Lǐ Qiáng: Nĭhăo, nĭ shì xīn lái de ba? Rúguŏ wŏ méi jì cuò,  nĭ jiào Jiékè, duì ma?   
李强：   你好，你是 新 来 的 吧？如果    我 没 记 错，你 叫  杰克，对 吗？

Li Qiang: Hello, aren't you a newcomer here? And if I'm not mistaken, you must be Jack, right?
Jié Kè:   Shì de, zhè shì wŏ dì yī tiān shàngbān.  
杰克： 是 的，  这  是  我 第  一  天    上班。

Jack:     Yes, I am. It's my first day here.

Lǐ Qiáng: Nĭhăo, wŏ shì zhège gōngsī de zŏng jīnglĭ, wŏ jiào Lĭ Qiáng!
李强：       你好，我 是   这个    公司 的    总经理，  我  叫     李强！

Li Qiang:  How do you do! I am the general manager of this company and my name is Li Qiang.

Jié Kè:  Nínhăo, Lĭ Zŏng, jiǔyăng nín de dàmíng.
杰克： 您好，     李总， 久仰     您   的  大名。

Jack:     How do you do! Mr. Li, I've heard a great deal about you.

Lǐ Qiáng: Bùgăndāng, hěn gāoxìng jiàn dào nĭ!
李强：          不敢当，   很    高兴    见    到    你！

Li Qiang: I am afraid that is an overstatement. Good to meet you.

Jié Kè:  Jiàn dào nín wŏ yě găn dào fēicháng róngxìng.
杰克：   见  到     您  我  也   感   到    非常        荣幸。

Jack:     Pleasure to meet you, too.

Lǐ Qiáng:  Nĭ shì Měiguó rén, duì ba?  Nĭ de hànyǔ jiăng de hěn bú cuò!
李强：      你  是    美国  人，对  吧？ 你 的 汉语   讲    得   很  不  错！

Li Qiang:   You are American, aren't you? But your Chinese is pretty good!

Jié Kè:  Ò, xièxie, nín guòjiăng le!
杰克： 哦，谢谢，您   过奖    了！

Jack:    Oh, thanks, I am flattered.

Lǐ Qiáng: Wŏ dàibiăo wŏmen gōngsī quántĭ yuángōng huānyíng nĭ de jiārù.
李强：      我    代表    我们    公司      全体       员工       欢迎       你的  加入。

Li Qiang: I would like to welcome you on behalf of all the staff in this company.

Jié Kè: Zhēn shì wàn fēn gănxiè nín! Chūláizhàdào, yĭhòu yào ràng nín fèixīn le, qĭng nín
杰克： 真     是 万  分    感谢     您！  初来乍到，   以后   要   让    您   费心  了，请 您                 
duōduōguānzhào!                 
 多多关照！

Jack: Thanks a million. Since I just got here, please take care of me in the future.

Lǐ Qiáng: Nĭ tài kèqi le.  Wŏ xīwàng nĭ zài zhèlĭ gōngzuò yúkuài!
李强：     你 太 客气了。我 希望    你 在  这里  工作     愉快！

Li Qiang: Not at all. I hope you will enjoy your stay here.

Jié Kè:  Xièxie, wŏ xiāngxìn wŏ huì de.
杰克： 谢谢， 我     相信    我  会 的。

Jack:    I appreciate that. And I bet I will.

Key Learning Points:

“你 (nĭ)” and “您 (nín)” are two personal pronouns in Chinese which are represented by the same word “you” in English. “您 (nín)” is the respectful form of “你 (nĭ)” and is often used to call those who are older or have a higher rank. Both of the words have plural forms: “你们 (nĭmen)” and “您们 (nínmen).”

你 (nĭ) and 您 (nín): pron you

Examples:          

Zǒng jīnglǐ, nínhǎo, zhè shì nín yào de cáiliào.
1. A:   总 经理，    您好， 这 是  您    要   的   材料。

         Hello, general manager, this is the material you want.              

Hǎode, xièxie.    
B: 好的，谢谢！

       Ok, thank you.         

Hāi, nǐ míngtiān xiàwǔ  yǒu shíjiān ma? Wǒmen qù dǎ lánqiú ba.
2. A: 嗨，你    明天    下午     有   时间  吗？   我们    去   打  篮球   吧。

        Hi, are you free tomorrow afternoon? Let’s play basketball.                

 Hǎoa, méiwèntí.    
B: 好啊， 没问题。

        Sure.

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary:

久仰 (jiǔyăng): v to hear much about somebody

荣幸 (róngxìng): adj be honored

费心 (fèixīn): v to give a lot of care

初来乍到 (chūláizhàdào): v to have just arrived

关照 (guānzhào): v/n care/attention/concern

客气 (kèqi): adj courteous

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Key Learning Points (Preview):

筷子 (kuàizi): n chopsticks

涵养 (hányǎng): n good behavior

As you are doing business with Chinese people, you may have used “筷子 (kuàizi) chopsticks.” But do you know the taboos of using this dining tool? The followings are five things you must know about the use of “筷子 (kuàizi) chopsticks.”

No.1: Hold “筷子 (kuàizi) chopsticks” with your “大拇指 (dàmǔzhǐ) thumb,” “中指 (zhōngzhǐ) middle finger,” “无名指 (wúmíngzhǐ) ring finger,” and “小拇指 (xiǎomǔzhǐ) little finger,” but be sure not to point your “食指 (shízhǐ) index finger” at others. It is widely acknowledged in China that when someone is about to swear using dirty words, they tend to point their “食指 (shízhǐ) index finger” at others. So if you let your “食指 (shízhǐ) index finger” point to other guests at the table, it is perceived as being impolite.

No.2: Do not hold “筷子 (kuàizi) chopsticks” in your mouth and suck them. It is regarded as lack of “涵养 (hányǎng) good behavior.” Besides, if you suck on the “筷子 (kuàizi) chopsticks,” you are very likely to make strange noises, which is often quite annoying.

No.3: Do not get what you want to eat with only one chopstick. It is well-recognized that both “筷子 (kuàizi) chopsticks” are always used together. But when you use only one of them to get something really small, it is like sticking up your “中指 (zhōngzhǐ) middle finger” to someone in the western culture.

No.4: Do not put your “筷子 (kuàizi) chopsticks” in the middle of a bowl of rice before eating. This is an action employed when you want to pay your respects to your ancestors who have passed away.

No.5: Do not use your “筷子 (kuàizi) chopsticks” to hit the bowl or the plate, even when you feel bored. That’s what beggars do when they beg for food.

Key Learning Points:

筷子 (kuàizi): n chopsticks

Example:

Hěnduō wàiguórén rènwéi yòng kuàizi hé xuéhǎo Zhōngwén yíyàng kùnnan.
很多       外国人       认为     用    筷子   和    学好      中文        一样      困难。

Many foreigners think that skillfully using chopsticks is as hard as learning Chinese.

Example:

A: Tīngshuō nǐ zuìjìn zài xuéxí lǚyóu hànyǔ.
      听说       你  最近 在 学习   旅游   汉语。

     I heard that you are taking travel Chinese courses recently.

B: Duì. Zhōngwén lǎoshī hái tèbié qiángdiào le  lǚyóu zhōng de hányǎng wèntí.
     对。 中文          老师  还  特别   强调       了 旅游     中    的   涵养      问题。
     Bǐrú shuō, búyào zài jiànzhùwù shàng luàntúluànhuà.
     比如 说， 不要   在     建筑物       上       乱涂乱画。

      Yes. My Chinese teacher emphasizes good behavior when travelling.
      For example, do not scrawl on the buildings during your trip.

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary:

大拇指 (dàmǔzhǐ): n thumb

食指 (shízhǐ): n index finger

中指 (zhōngzhǐ): n middle finger

无名指 (wúmíngzhǐ): n ring finger

小拇指 (xiǎomǔzhǐ): n little finger

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Key Learning Points (Preview):

三十六计 (sānshíliùjì): n thirty six stratagems

欲擒故纵 (yùqín gùzòng): n/v to catch something, first set it free

利润 (lìrùn): n profit

More than 20 years ago, "可口可乐 (kěkǒu kělè) Coca-Cola" was looking to break into the huge Chinese soft drink market. First, the soft drink company provided China with four million dollars of soda processing "设备 (shèbèi) equipment" for FREE. And it also set a low price for its products. It spent a large amount of money on "宣传 (xuānchuán) publicizing" its soft drinks in China to create a market awareness. Then, as soon as the market opened and the distributors realized the "利润 (lìrùn) profit" of doing business with the company, Coca-Cola sold the "设备 (shèbèi) equipment," instead of giving it away for free to the bottlers and then "上涨 (shàngzhǎng) raised" the price of its popular products. By employing this strategy, Coca-Cola made money many times more than its initial "投资 (tóuzī) investment" from the Chinese market.

This strategy is called "欲擒故纵 (yùqín gùzòng) to catch something, first set it free." It is one of the most famous stratagems in a remarkable Chinese book called "三十六计 (sānshíliùjì) Thirty Six Stratagems." The logic is as follows: Cornered prey will often mount a final desperate attack. To prevent this from happening, you let the enemy first believe he still has a chance for escaping. His will to fight will be weakened by his desire to escape. When the enemy realizes there is no chance to escape later on, it is too late–his "斗志 (dòuzhì) morale" will be crushed and he will "投降 (tóuxiáng) surrender" without a fight.

It is often said that "商场如战场 (shāngchǎng rú zhànchǎng) business is war," and "买卖如用兵 (mǎimài rú yòngbīng) doing business is like deploying military forces." Today's business professionals in China are increasingly aware of the importance of the "三十六计 (sānshíliùjì) thirty six stratagems" and are thus willing to discuss and implement them during their daily business affairs. And they believe that those who thoroughly understand the essence of the book will come out victorious in today's battles.

Key Learning Points:

三十六计 (sānshíliùjì): n thirty six stratagems

The character "三 (sān)" means three. "十 (shí)" means ten. "六 (liù)" means six. "计 (jì)" is the short form of "计谋 (jìmóu)" which means stratagem.

Example:

A: Tīngshuō nǐ zuìjìn zài kàn sānshíliùjì.      
听说       你  最近   在 看    三十六计。

    I heard that you've been reading the book of Thirty Six Stratagems recently.

B: Shìde. Tā duì wǒde shēngyi hěn yǒu bāngzhù.    
是的。 它 对 我的    生意     很    有     帮助。

    Yes. It's very helpful for my business.

欲擒故纵 (yùqín gùzòng): n/v to catch something, first set it free

The character "欲 (yù)" means to want. "擒 (qín)" means to capture. "故 (gù)" means deliberately. "纵 (zòng)" means to set free.

Example:

Tā míngbai yùqín gùzòng de dàolǐ,  suǒyǐ qǐxiān méiyǒu lìjí  jiānbìng nàge xiǎo gōngsī.
他    明白     欲擒    故纵   的   道理，所以 起先    没有 立即     兼并   那个  小    公司。

He understands "to catch something, first set it free," so he didn't form the merger with that small company at the beginning.

利润 (lìrùn): n profit

Both the character "利 (lì)" and "润 (rùn)" mean profit.

Example:

Tā  bǎ gōngsī shí fēn zhī yī  de  lìrùn juān gěile  císhàn shìyè.
他   把 公司    十   分  之 一  的 利润   捐   给了   慈善    事业。

One tenth of his company's profit is donated to charity.

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary:

商场如战场 (shāngchǎng rú zhànchǎng) business is war

买卖如用兵 (mǎimài rú yòngbīng) doing business is like deploying military forces

可口可乐 (kěkǒu kělè): n Coca-Cola

设备 (shèbèi): n equipment

投资 (tóuzī): n/v investment/to invest

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Key Learning Points (Preview):

介绍 (jièshào): v/n to introduce/introduction

年龄 (niánlíng): n age

名片 (míngpiàn): n business card

In China, the first time “介绍 (jièshào) introduction” is crucial in business relationships. It is a stepping stone for successful business cooperation.

There are two main principles about the “顺序 (shùnxù) order” you must follow. One is related to the gender. That is, in China, we usually introduce the men to the ladies before introducing the ladies to the men in order to show “尊敬 (zūnjìng) respect” towards the ladies. The other is related to the “年龄 (niánlíng) age” and seniority. We usually introduce the lower positioned people to the higher positioned first in order to show respect towards the latter.

When exchanging “名片 (míngpiàn) business card,” you should pass your business card with both hands toward the receiving side. You should also take the other’s business card with both hands.

Key Learning Points:

介绍 (jièshào): v/n to introduce/introduction

“介 (jiè)” literally means between，and “绍 (shào)” literally means to connect. But in the word “介绍 (jièshào),” both the two characters mean to introduce.

Example:

    Qǐng yǔnxǔ wǒ xiàng nín jièshào wǒmen de dǒngshìzhǎng–Chén xiānsheng.
A: 请     允许   我   向     您   介绍     我们    的            董事长——陈      先生。

    Please allow me to introduce our chairman to you–Mr. Chen.

    Nínhǎo, Chén xiānsheng, hěn róngxìng jiàndào nín!
B: 您好，     陈      先生，       很     荣幸      见到     您！

    Hello, Mr. Chen, it’s my honor to meet you.

年龄 (niánlíng): n age

“年 (nián)” literally means year and “龄 (líng)” means age. And there are some well-known quotations from The Analects of Confucius regarding to “年龄 (niánlíng) age.”
“三十而立 (sānshí érlì)” means “At thirty, a man should have planted his feet firm upon the ground.”
“四十不惑 (sìshí bú huò)” means “At forty, a man should no longer suffer from perplexities,” etc.

Example:

Nín de niánlíng bǐ wǒ dà.
您 的 年龄 比 我 大。

You are older than I.

名片 (míngpiàn): n business card

“名 (míng)” literally means name and “片 (piàn)” represents the meaning of “卡片 (kǎpiàn) card.”

Example:

Míngpiàn shàng yìn zhe wǒ de qǐyè dìzhǐ hé diànhuà hàomǎ.
名片           上      印  着  我 的 企业 地址 和     电话    号码。

My business address and phone number are printed on the business card.

生词(shēngcí) Vocabulary:

顺序 (shùnxù): n order

尊敬 (zūnjìng): n/v respect

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Key Learning Points (Preview):

问候 (wènhòu): n/v greeting/ to send one's regards to

久仰 (jiǔyǎng): v I've heard so much about you

Greetings are the first parts of a conversation between people during business exchanges. We greet people differently depending upon the circumstances.

To greet people we are meeting for the first time, the most standard expressions are: "你好 (nǐhǎo) hello," "很高兴认识您 (hěn gāoxìng rènshí nín) glad to meet you," "见到您非常荣幸 (jiàn dào nín fēicháng róngxìng) it's a great honor to meet you." Both "你 (nǐ)" and "您 (nín)" mean "you" in English. But they are different in Chinese. "您 (nín)" shows full respect to others, and is generally used to address elders, boss while "你 (nǐ)" is often used to address peers.

To greet an acquaintance, one should choose words that are casual and informal. For example, "好久不见了 (hǎo jiǔ bú jiàn le) long time no see," "又见面了 (yòu jiànmiàn le) see you again," "你气色不错 (nǐ qìsè búcuò) you have a good complexion."

To greet a prestigious person, the standard ways of addressing them are "久仰 (jiǔyǎng) I've heard so much about you," or "幸会 (xìnghuì) I'm fortunate to meet you."

Key Learning Points:

问候 (wènhòu): n/v greeting/ to send one's regards to

The character "问 (wèn)" means to ask and "候 (hòu)" means to wait, but here "候 (hòu)" means to greet.

Example:

Shāngwù wènhòu hěn zhòngyào, yòng de bú qiàdàng kěnéng huì yǐnqǐ wùhuì.
商务           问候    很 重要，           用    的 不 恰当        可能      会 引起 误会。

Business greetings are quite critical because if they are used in an inappropriate way, they can create misunderstanding or embarrassment between people.

久仰 (jiǔyǎng): v I've heard so much about you

The character "久 (jiǔ)" refers to long duration of time and "仰 (yǎng)" refers to look up to.

Example:

     Jiǔyǎng dàmíng, jīntiān zhōngyú jiàn dào nín le.
A: 久仰        大名，   今天 终于 见 到 您 了。

I've heard so much about you and I finally see you today.

   Wǒ yě hěn gāoxìng jiàn dào nín.
B: 我 也 很   高兴    见   到 您。

Nice to see you too.

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary:

熟人 (shúrén): n people whom you know very well

More Topics on Learning Business Chinese:

Learn Chinese Business Etiquette: Make a phone call (Intermediate)

Learn Business Chinese: Five Things You Must NOT Do with Chopsticks

Learn Business Chinese: Business gift taboos in China (Intermediate)

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Key Learning Points (Preview):

送礼 (sònglǐ): v to give gift 　

商务往来 (shāngwù wǎnglái): n business exchanges/doing business with others 　

“送礼 (sònglǐ) Giving gift” is an important part of “商务往来 (shāngwù wǎnglái) doing business” in China. Cultural traditions play an important role in business life in China. And there are some important “禁忌 (jìnjì) taboos” that business people should be aware of.

First, people should not give clocks to others since the Chinese pronunciation of “送钟 (sòngzhōng) to give clocks” is the same as that of “送终 (sòngzhōng) to attend upon a dying relative.”

Second, people should not give shoes as gifts since the Chinese pronunciation of “鞋 (xié) shoes” is the same as that of “邪 (xié) evil.” There is another proverb that says, “If you give shoes to a pair of lovers, it means they will break up.”

Lastly, people should not give pears as gifts to others because the Chinese pronunciation of “梨 (lí) pears” is the same as that of “离 (lí) to separate.” The meaning of Chinese character “离 (lí)” is not “吉利 (jílì) lucky” in Chinese.

Key Learning Points:

送礼 (sònglǐ): v to give gift   

The character “送 (sòng)” means to give and “礼 (lǐ)” refers to gift.

Examples:

Jiérì sònglǐ shì yì zhǒng fēngsú.
节日 送礼   是  一  种      风俗。 　
Giving presents on festivals is a tradition.

Tā sònglǐ hěn kāngkǎi.
他 送礼      很    慷慨。 　
He is generous in giving gifts.

 商务往来 (shāngwù wǎnglái): n business exchanges/doing business with others　

The character “商 (shāng)” means commerce and “务 (wù)” means affair. “往(wǎng)” means to go and “来 (lái)” means to come.

Examples:

Tāmen jiànlì le xīn de shāngwù wǎnglái guānxi.
他们     建立了 新   的   商务        往来      关系。 　
They have established a new business relationship.

Zhè liǎng jiā gōngsī de shāngwù wǎnglái hěn pínfán.
这     两    家 公司    的   商务         往来    很    频繁。 　
The two companies are very frequent in business exchanges.

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary: 　
禁忌 (jìnjì): n taboo 　

吉利 (jílì): adj lucky 　

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Key Learning Points (preview):

财神 (cáishén): n the God of Wealth 　

迎接 (yíngjiē): v to greet 　

诚信 (chéngxìn): n honesty 　

During the Chinese New Year, the most important business motto is "财源滚滚 (cáiyuán gǔngǔn) profits can pour in from all sides." So in China, businesses will close on lunar new year's eve and have a grand opening on the 5^th of January in the lunar new year. People will set off firecrackers and fireworks "迎接 (yíngjiē) to greet" the God of Wealth. Doing so is supposed to bring them fortune of wealth and also their customers a happy Chinese New Year. Why do businesses choose January 5 to greet "财神 (cáishén) the God of Wealth?" Generally speaking, Chinese people consecrate a Taoist god named Zhao Gaoming as the God of Wealth and his birthday is said to be on the "正月 (zhēngyuè) lunar January" 5^th. Many Chinese businesses embrace the image of Zhao Gongming, wishing he would bless their business with success.

There is another god worshiped by some Chinese business people named Guan Yu. He was a hero from a Chinese classic novel called The Romance of the Three Kingdoms. He is famous for his "忠诚 (zhōngchéng) loyalty," "正义 (zhèngyì) righteousness" as well as his "诚信 (chéngxìn) honest." All of these are aspects that are highly appraised in the modern business community. Business people are encouraged to acquire fortune by honorable means, or Guan Yu will not show any mercy with his dragon crescent moon sword.

Key Learning Points:

财神 (Cáishén): n the God of Wealth 　

"财 (cái)" comes from the word "财富 (cáifù)" and means wealth. "神 (shén)" comes from the word "神仙 (shénxiān)" and means god or supernatural being of Taoism.

Example:
Zhào Gōngmíng shì Zhōngguó mínjiān chuánshuō de Cáishén.
赵 公 明 是 中 国 民 间 传 说 的 财 神。 　
Zhao Gongming is the God of Wealth in Chinese folk tales.

迎接 (yíngjiē): v to greet 　
"迎 (yíng)" literally means to welcome and "接 (jiē)" means to receive.

Example:
"Qǐngjìn, qǐngzuò." Tā rèqíng de yíngjiē zhe kèrén.
"请进， 请坐。" 他 热情 地 迎接 着 客人。 　
"Come in and take a seat, please." He greeted the guests warmly.

诚信 (chéngxìn): n honesty 　
"诚 (chéng)" comes from the word "诚实 (chéngshí)" and means honesty. "信 (xìn)" comes from "信用 (xìnyòng)" and means credibility.

Example:
Chéngxìn shì zuòrén de gēnběn, lìyè de jīchǔ.
诚 信 是 做人 的 根本， 立业 的 基础。 　
Honesty is the foundation to behave oneself and start one's career.

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary 　

正月 (zhēngyuè): n lunar January 　

忠诚 (zhōngchéng): n/adj loyalty/loyal 　

正义 (zhèngyì): n/adj righteousness/righteous 　

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Key Learning Points (Preview):
敬酒 (jìngjiǔ): v to propose a toast   　
除非 (chúfēi): conj unless   　

“敬酒 (jìngjiǔ) Toasting” is an important part of dinner in China, especially at business dinners. One should follow the basic rules when attending a business dinner. Firstly, one should stand up and use both hands as he or she toasts. Secondly, one should hold his or her glass with the right hand and use the left hand to support the bottom and remember to always hold the glass lower than those of others to show respect. Finally, many people can toast to one person, but one should not toast to many people at once “除非 (chúfēi) unless” he or she is the leader.

Key Learning Points

敬酒 (jìngjiǔ): v to propose a toast 　

“敬 (jìng)” literally means to respect and here it means to offer respectfully.

“酒 (jiǔ)” means liquor.

Example:

我们大家向新娘新郎敬酒。 　

Wǒmen dàjiā xiàng xīnniáng xīnláng jìngjiǔ.

Let’s propose a toast to the bride and groom.

除非 (chúfēi): conj unless 　

“除 (chú)” literally means to get rid of, but here it means being exclusive. “非

(fēi)” means not.

Examples:

除非你努力下功夫，否则你永远打不好网球。 　

Chúfēi nǐ nǔlì xià gōngfu, fǒuzé nǐ yǒngyuǎn dǎ bù hǎo wǎngqiú.

You will never become good at tennis unless you work hard at it.

除非你马上采取行动，不然一切都晚了。 　

Chúfēi nǐ mǎshàng cǎiqǔ xíngdòng, bùrán yí qiè dōu wǎn le.

It will be too late unless you take action immediately.

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1、今天很残酷，明天更残酷, 后天很美好，但绝大多数人都死在明天晚上，看不见
后天的太阳。 　
Jīntiān hěn cánkù, míngtiān gèng cánkù, hòutiān hěn měihǎo, dàn jué
dàduōshù rén dōu sǐ zài míngtiān wǎnshàng, kàn bú jiàn hòutiān de
tàiyáng.
Today is cruel and tomorrow is crueler. The day after tomorrow will be
wonderful; however, most people die on tomorrow night and won’t see
the sunshine the day after tomorrow.

— From Ma Yun, CEO of Alibaba, China’s largest e-commerce
company.

2、品牌＝品质＋品位＋品行    　
Pǐnpái=pǐnzhì＋pǐnwèi＋pǐnxíng
Quality, taste and virtue make a brand.

— From Niú Gēnshēng, CEO of MENGNIU, one of China’s
leading dairy products companies.

3、要避开竞争也不可能，市场肯定有竞争，避免竞争，这不是找死么？ 　
Yào bìkāi jìngzhēng yě bùkěnéng, shìchǎng kěndìng yǒu jìngzhēng,
bìmiǎn  jìngzhēng, zhè búshì zhǎosǐ me?
It is impossible to avoid competition for it’s everywhere in the market;
aren’t you seeking death if you really try to avoid competition.

—From Zong Qinghou, CEO of Wa haha, one of the four largest
beverage producers in the world.

4、就像日常生活中人们对水和电的依赖一样，我们要做成互联网上的水和电。
　
Jiù xiàng rìcháng shēnghuó zhōng rénmen duì shuǐ hé diàn de yīlài
yí yàng, wǒmen yào zuò chéng hùliánwǎng shàng de shuǐ hé diàn.
Like how people rely on water and electricity in their daily life, we are
going to make our products like the water and electricity of the internet
world.

—From Ma Huateng, CEO of Tencent (QQ.com), the most
powerful Internet company in China.

5、海尔的每年都是一个马拉松长跑，每天都是一个百米冲刺。
　
Hǎi’ěr de měinián dōu shì yí gè mǎlāsōng chángpǎo, měitiān dōu shì yí gè
bǎimǐ  chōngcì.
Every year is a marathon race for Hai’er, and everyday is a 100-meter
dash.

—From Zhang Ruimin, CEO of Hai’er Group, the fourth largest
appliance manufacturer in the world.

6、营销是没有专家的，唯一的专家是消费者，就是你只要能打动消费者就行了。
　
Yíngxiāo shì méiyǒu zhuānjiā de, wéiyī de zhuānjiā shì xiāofèizhě, jiùshì
nǐ zhǐyào néng dǎdòng xiāofèizhě jiù xíng le.
There are no experts in marketing and the only expert is the customer.
So it is crucial to impress the customers.

—From Shi Yuzhu, CEO of Giant Interactive Group, the first
online game company listed on New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

7、要有理想，但是不要理想化！ 　
Yàoyǒu lǐxiǎng, dànshì búyào lǐxiǎnghuà!
To have a dream is important, but don’t be too idealistic!

—From Liu Chuanzhi, CEO of Lenovo, the fourth largest PC
maker in the world.

8、因为改变不了过去，你只能去创造未来。 　
Yīnwèi gǎibiàn bù liǎo guòqù, nǐ zhǐnéng qù chuàngzào wèilái.
You can not change the past, so you have to create the future.

—From Li Dongsheng, CEO of TCL Group,  the largest electronic
product manufacturer in China.

9、企业里能发现问题，提出问题的人很多，那些能够创造机会和得到机会的是能
够发现问题并解决问题的人。 　
Qǐyè lǐ néng fāxiàn wèntí, tíchū wèntí de rén hěn duō, nàxiē nénggòu
chuàngzào jīhuì hé dédào jīhuì de shì nénggòu fāxiàn wèntí bìng jiějué
wèntí de rén.
Many people in an enterprise can discover problems; however, those
who can discover and solve those problems create and get
opportunities.

—From Tang Jun, Former President of Shanda
ENTERTAINMENT, a NASDAQ listed Media Company.

10、只要有信心，人永远不会挫败。 　
Zhǐyào yǒu xìnxīn, rén yǒngyuǎn bú huì cuòbài.
As long as you have confidence in your heart, you will never be
defeated.

—From Li Ning, CEO of Li Ning Sports Group, a leading sports
brand in China.

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary 　

残酷 (cánkù) adj cruel 　

“残 (cán)” means cruel and “酷 (kù)” means ruthless.

Example:

现实社会总是很残酷。 　
Xiànshí shèhuì zǒngshì hěn cánkù.
The real world is always cruel.

美好 (měi hǎo) adj fine/ beautiful/ bright 　

“美 (měi)” means beautiful and “好 (hǎo)” means fine or good.

Example:

更美好的未来呈现在我们面前。 　
Gèng měihǎo de wèilái chéngxiàn zài wǒmen miànqián.
A brighter future lies ahead.

理想化 (lǐxiǎnghuà) v to idealize 　

“理 (lǐ)” refers natural science or logic. “想 (xiǎng)” means to think. “化 (huà)” is a suffix which means to transform.

Example:

A: 我真希望社会中没有竞争，没有压力。　
Wǒ zhēn xīwàng shèhuì zhōng méiyǒu jìngzhēng, méiyǒu yālì.
I wish there is no competition or stress in the society.

B: 哎，那样的事情只能存在于理想化的世界中。　
Ài, nàyàng de shìqíng zhǐnéng cúnzàiyú líxiǎnghuà de shìjiè zhōng.
That exists only in an idealistic world.

挫败 (cuòbài) v to defeat 　

“挫 (cuò)” means repress or oppress. “败 (bài)” means to fail.

Example:

他的努力被反动势力挫败。 　
Tā de nǔlì bèi fǎndòng shìlì cuòbài.
His efforts were defeated by the reactionary force.

企业 (qǐyè): n enterprise   　

竞争 (jìngzhēng): v to compete   　

营销 (yíngxiāo): n marketing   　

专家 (zhuānjiā): n expert   　

创造 (chuàngzào): v to create   　

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At Chinese “宴会 (yànhuì) banquets,” the seating arrangement is probably the most important part of Chinese dining “礼仪 (lǐyí) etiquette,” especially in Chinese business banquets. Generally, round tables are used at Chinese banquets and the seat facing the entrance is the seat of honor. The seats on the left hand side of the seat of honor are second, fourth, sixth, etc. in importance, while those on the right are third, fifth, seventh and so on in importance. The seat of honor, “保留 (bǎoliú) reserved” for the master of the banquet or the “客人 (kèrén) guests” with highest status, is the one in the center facing east or facing the entrance. Those of higher position sit closer to the seat of honor. The guests of the lowest position sit furthest from the seat of honor.

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary 　

礼仪 (lǐyí) n etiquette 　

“礼 (lǐ)” means polite and “仪 (yí)” means ceremony.

Examples:

中国自古就是一个礼仪之邦。 　
Zhōngguó zìgǔ jiùshì yígè lǐyí zhī bāng.
China has always been a state of etiquettes.

代表们须按礼仪要求就座。 　
Dàibiǎomen xū àn lǐyí yāoqiú jiùzuò.
The delegates have to be seated according to the proper etiquettes.

宴会 (yànhuì): n banquet  　

客人 (kèrén): n guest  　

保留 (bǎoliú): v to reserve   　

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On Dec.16, 2009, “the Chinese worker” ended up ranking second in the selection of Time magazine’s prestigious “Person of the Year 2009.” They were the only group selected. Time magazine commented: “Chinese workers are ‘勤奋 (qínfèn) diligent,’ ‘努力 (nǔlì) hardworking‘ and ‘勇敢 (yǒnggǎn) brave,‘ they may not actually understand how important they are to the ‘稳定(wěndìng) stability‘ and ‘发展 (fāzhǎn) development’ of China’s economy, but they are the ones who lead the world to economic ‘恢复 (huīfù) recovery‘.” Chinese workers successfully “保八 (bǎo bā),” maintained 8% annual growth rate of the Chinese economy in 2009. One year ago, many thought such a figure in 2009 was a pipe dream. But China has done it. Who deserves the credit? It is the tens of millions of “中国工人 (Zhōngguó gōngrén) Chinese workers.” Chinese workers contribute greatly to the development of China and deserve Time’s recognition.

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary 　

勤奋 (qínfèn): adj diligent  　

努力 (nǔlì): adj hardworking  　

勇敢 (yǒnggǎn): adj brave  　

发展 (fāzhǎn): n development  　

恢复 (huīfù): v to recover  　

稳定 (wěndìng): n stability  　

中国工人 (Zhōngguó gōngrén): n Chinese workers  　

年度人物 (niándù rénwù): n person of the year  　

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Christmas is a golden time for many businesses in China to make the most out of the holiday season. On the Wangfujing Street in Beijing on December 16, 2009, 15 meters “环保 (huánbǎo) environmental friendly” Christmas tree was made of thousands of waste beverage bottles. Employees in Shangri-La Hotel made Christmas trees out of waste paper, which attracted many peoples’ attention. By doing so, not only do businesses “迎合 (yínghé) cater to” the customers’ needs, but also show their “品牌 (pǐnpái) brands” positively. In fact, companies all over the world “不遗余力 (bùyíyúlì) spare no efforts” in making their products to meet customers’ green needs. After all, “关注 (guānzhù) caring about” customers’ needs and always putting customers’ needs in the first place are the keys to business success. No wonder businesses “瞄准 (miáozhǔn) take aim at” this Christmas opportunity and just like what we say in Chinese: “顾客就是上帝 (gùkè jiù shì shàngdì) Customers are God. ”

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary 　

环保 (huánbǎo) n environmental friendly 　

“环 (huán)” means environment and “保 (bǎo)” means to protect.

Example:

人们现在越来越青睐环保型汽车。 　
Rénmen xiànzài yuèláiyuè qīnglài huánbǎoxíng qìchē.
People are becoming more and more in favor of environmental friendly cars.

不遗余力 (bùyíyúlì) v spare no efforts 　

It is an idiom originated from a famous ancient Chinese works “战国策 (Zhànguócè) Intrigues of the Warring States.” “不 (bù)” means not; “遗 (yí)” means to reserve; “余 (yú)” means remaining, and “力 (lì)” means strength.

Example:

我们应该不遗余力地美化我们的环境。 　
Wǒmen yīnggāi bùyíyúlì de měihuà wǒmen de huánjìng.
We should spare no effort to beautify our environment.

迎合 (yínghé): v to cater to   　

品牌 (pǐnpái): n brand   　

关注 (guānzhù): v to care about   　

瞄准 (miáozhǔn): v to take aim at   　

顾客就是上帝 (gùkè jiù shì shàngdì): Customers are God   　

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Key Learning Points (Preview): 抱怨 (bàoyuàn): v to complain  信誉 (xìnyù): n reputation 

In December 2009, China’s most valuable brand list was “揭晓 (jiēxiǎo) announced” in New York and 100 Chinese consumer brands “进入 (jìnrù) entered” the final list, including “联想(liánxiǎng) Lenovo,” and “TCL.” “中国最有价值品牌 (Zhōngguó zuì yǒu jiàzhí pǐnpái) China’s Most Valuable Brands” was Haier Group, which has won the award for eight consecutive years. How did Haier win the “冠军 (guànjūn) champion” of China’s most valuable brand? Haier is a manufacturer for “家用电器 (jiāyòng diànqì) household electrical appliances,” such as washers, air conditioners and so on. Haier is recognized in China for its products’ “质量 (zhìliang) quality” and customer service. There was a story about the birth of Haier “大地瓜 (Dàdìguā) Big Sweet Potato” washing machine. Once Haier’s CEO “张瑞敏 (Zhāng Ruìmǐn) Zhang Ruimin” heard that farmers “抱怨 (bàoyuàn) complained” about the bad waterspout of Haier’s washing machines, because they washed big sweet potatoes using the washing machines. He said: “客户的难题就是我们的课题. (Kèhù de nántí jiù shì wǒmen de kètí) A customer’s problem is our task.” Shortly,” Big Sweet Potato” washing machine was launched in the market. When Haier listened to its customers and their “反馈 (fǎnkuì) feedback,” its “满意度 (mǎnyìdù) satisfaction level” and “信誉 (xìnyù) reputation” improved.

Key Learning Points:

抱怨 (bàoyuàn): v to complain  Example: 很多顾客都抱怨这家餐厅的服务质量不高。 Hěnduō gùkè dōu bàoyuan zhè jiā cāntīng de fúwù zhìliàng bù gāo. Many customers complained about the quality of customer service in this restaurant. 信誉 (xìnyù): n reputation     Example: 对商家来说，商业信誉很重要。 Duì shāngjiā lái shuō, shāngyè xìnyu hěn zhòngyào. Reputation is very important to businessman. 生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary 进入 (jìnrù): v to enter  满意度 (mǎnyìdù): n satisfaction level Got questions? Take a Free 1-on-1 live online lesson with our professional teachers from China.

Key Learning Points (Preview):

网上购物 (wǎngshàng gòuwù) n Online shopping

热销 (rèxiāo) n Best seller

讨价还价(tǎojià huánjià) v To bargain

As the holiday season is coming up soon, the Christmas shopping frenzy is already around the corner. Will you do "网上购物 (wǎngshàng gòuwù) online shopping?" If so, you might be familiar with sites such as eBay and Amazon, but do you know Taobao? It is China's most popular online shopping site. According to Baidu Encyclopedia, Taobao' s "销量 (xiāoliàng) sales volume" accounts for 80% of China's online shopping market. In China, clothes, books, toys, and flowers are the "热销 (rèxiāo) hot selling" gifts online. Alipay is the "Paypal" in China, and is also an independent third-party payment platform.

"At the times of the '金融危机 (jīnróngwēijī)  financial crisis,' choosing a more economical way of shopping is necessary." Some China's online shopping "顾客 (gùkè) customers" commented. Compared with the traditional shopping methods, most people recognize that the "性价比 (xìngjiàbǐ) performance-to-price ratio" of online shopping is higher.

One unique feature of Taobao is that it offers an instant messenger called "Taobao Wangwang," where buyers can chat with their sellers. The customers can ask for specific product information, and "讨价还价 (tǎojià huánjià) bargain."

网上购物 (wǎngshàng gòuwù) n Online shopping

"网 (wǎng)" means network and "上 (shàng)" means on, so "网上 (wǎngshàng)" means on the internet. "购 (gòu)" means to buy and "物 (wù)" means thing, so "购物 (gòuwù)" means shopping. This phrase also can be used as a verb which means to shop online.

Example:

有的汉语学习者认为，应该把如何在网上购物加进AP中文的练习之中。

Yǒude hànyǔ xuéxízhě rènwéi, yīnggāi bǎ rúhé zài wǎngshàng gòuwù jiājìn AP zhōngwén de liànxí zhīzhōng.
Some Chinese learners consider that learning how to shop online should be included in AP Chinese practice.

热销 (rèxiāo) n Best seller

"热 (rè)" means hot and "销 (xiāo)" means to sell. This word also means to sell well.

Example:

这个学校的各种对外汉语课程中，商务汉语最热销。

Zhège xuéxiào de gè zhǒng duì wài hànyǔ kèchéng zhōng, shāngwù hànyǔ zuì  rèxiāo.
Among all kinds of the Chinese language courses of this school, the Business Chinese sells best.

讨价还价(tǎojià huánjià) v To bargain

"讨 (tǎo)" means to ask and "价 (jià)" means price, so "讨价 (tǎojià)" means to ask a price; "还价 (huánjià)" means to haggle.

Example:

有的顾客把讨价还价当作一种购物的乐趣。

Yǒu de gùkè bǎ tǎojià huánjià dàngzuò yì zhǒng gòuwù de lèqù. Some customers believe bargaining is a fun part of shopping.

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary:

销量 (xiāoliàng): n sales volume

礼物 (lǐwù): n gift

金融危机 (jīnróng wēijī): n financial crisis

顾客 (gùkè): n customer

性价比 (xìngjiàbǐ): n performance-to-price ratio

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看好 (kànhǎo) To be bullish on… 　

"看 (kàn)" means to look and watch and "好 (hǎo)" means good.

Example:

随着中国的快速发展，许多老外都因为看好中国的前景而对汉语学习产生兴趣。 　 Suízhe Zhōngguó de kuàisù fāzhǎn, xǔduō lǎowài dōu yīnwèi kànhǎo Zhōngguó de qiánjǐng ér duì hànyǔ xuéxí chǎnshēng xìngqù.
With the rapid development of China, many foreigners are interested in learning the Chinese language, for they are bullish on the future of China.

"财气 (cáiqì)" Luck in making more money 　

"财 (cái)" refers to money or wealth and "气 (qì)" refers to luck.

Example:

他真有财气，炒股都发了很多次了。 　
Tā zhēn yǒu cáiqì, chǎogǔ dōu fā le hěnduō cì le.
He really had luck in making money, for he has hit the stock jackpot many times.

生词 (shēngcí) Vocabulary  　
手机 (shǒujī): n cellphone  　
技术 (jìshù): n technology   　
标志 (biāozhì): n logo   　
赠送 (zèngsòng): v to give a gift   　
电动车 (diàndòngchē): n electric vehicle  　
污染 (wūrǎn): n/v pollution/to pollute 　

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超出……接受范围 (chāochū…jiēshòu fànwéi) Go beyond/be out of the acceptable range of…  

闹市区 (nàoshìqū) Downtown area    

核心竞争力 (héxīn jìngzhēnglì)  Core competitiveness   

Recently, KFC restaurants are reported to have to move frequently in some areas of China. Why does such a fast-food giant have to face this embarrassing situation? KFC restaurants in China often "租赁 (zūlìn) rent" their places. When their 10-year lease expires, the rent in the "闹市区 (nàoshìqū) downtown area" has already soared to several times the original rental price, and has "超出 (chāochū) gone beyond 接受范围 (jiēshòu fànwéi) the acceptable price range of" KFC. So KFC was forced to re-select some less-expensive locations. First of all, this proves that the original locations' selection of KFC is correct. The success rate of its location choices is almost 100 percent, which is one of the KFC's "核心竞争力 (héxīn jìngzhēnglì) core competitiveness." Second, the rent's soaring suggests the "房地产 (fángdìchǎn) real estate" industry's rapid development in China. The same also applies to the development of the "商品房 (shāngpǐnfáng) residential building." Since 2003, China's housing prices began nearly six-year's continuous growth, making more and more people become "房奴 (fángnú) mortgage slaves" due to high housing prices.

超出……接受范围 (chāochū…jiēshòu fànwéi) Go beyond/be out of the acceptable range of…  

"超 (chāo)" means to exceed, "出 (chū)" means out of, so "超出 (chāochū)" means to go beyond. "接受 (jiēshòu)" means to accept, and both the two Chinese characters mean to accept."范围 (fànwéi)" means the range.

Example:
你的价格超出了我公司的接受范围，能稍微降低一些吗？  
Nǐde jiàgé chāochūle wǒ gōngsī de jiēshòu fànwéi, néng shāowēi jiàngdī yìxiē ma?
Your price goes beyond the acceptable range of our company's capacity. Can you bring it down a bit?

闹市区 (nàoshìqū) Downtown area