In China’s business landscape, where relationships and mutual respect form the foundation of successful partnerships, mastering key phrases can significantly enhance communication effectiveness. These carefully selected expressions consistently demonstrate cultural awareness and earn professional respect when used appropriately.
1. 久仰大名 (Jiǔyǎng dàmíng)
“I’ve long admired your reputation.”
When to use: First meetings with senior executives
Why it works: Demonstrates humility and preparation
Pro tip: Cite specific achievements (“I read about your 2024 market expansion”)
2. 合作愉快 (Hézuò yúkuài)
“May our cooperation be pleasant”
When to use: Closing any agreement
Why it works: Signals optimism about the relationship
Local nuance: Often said while shaking hands over contracts
3. 您说的有道理 (Nín shuō de yǒu dàolǐ)
“You make a valid point”
When to use: During disagreements
Why it works: Maintains harmony while reserving your position
Advanced move: Follow with “不过…” (“However…”) for gentle pushback
4. 这个思路很新颖 (Zhège sīlù hěn xīnyǐng)
“This approach is quite innovative”
When to use: When evaluating methodologies or strategic proposals
Why it works: Recognizes creative thinking while maintaining space for refinement
Cultural insight: Praises the thinking process (more valued in Chinese business culture than just ideas)
5. 这个想法很有创意 (Zhège xiǎngfǎ hěn yǒu chuàngyì)
“This idea is very creative”
When to use: Before critiquing proposals
Why it works: Compliments before constructive feedback
Cultural insight: Saves face more effectively than Western-style directness
6. 按规矩办 (Àn guījǔ bàn)
“We’ll follow standard procedure”
When to use: Pushing back on special requests
Why it works: Invokes institutional authority
Alternative:
Zhè bù fúhé gōngsī guīdìng
这不符合公司规定
This doesn’t comply with company policy
7. “回头联系” (Huítóu liánxì)
“We’ll reconnect later”
When to use: Ending unproductive discussions
Why it works: Graceful exit without burning bridges
Key: Always initiate the promised follow-up
8. “辛苦您了” (Xīnkǔ nín le)
“We appreciate your hard work”
When to use: After colleagues help you
Why it works: Acknowledges effort (not just results)
Level up: Add specific praise (“especially your market analysis”)
9. “这个方向很有突破性” (Zhège fāngxiàng hěn yǒu tūpòxìng)
“This direction is groundbreaking”
When to use: When assessing innovative projects or R&D proposals
Why it works: Validates the visionary aspect while allowing for practical adjustments
Cultural insight: Chinese business culture particularly values forward-thinking strategies
10. “这个切入点很独特” (Zhège qiērùdiǎn hěn dútè)
“The entry point is very unique”
When to use: When analyzing market strategies or product positioning
Why it works: Highlights specific strengths before addressing challenges
Cultural insight: Demonstrates you’ve identified precise valuable elements
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Quiz: Which phrase should you use when meeting a senior executive for the first time?
A. 合作愉快 (Hézuò yúkuài)
B. 久仰大名 (Jiǔyǎng dàmíng)
C. 回头联系 (Huítóu liánxì)
Answer: B
