1. 不好意思 (bù hǎo yì si)
= Sorry / Excuse me (but softer and friendly)
You’ll hear this everywhere in China. Use it when you:
Bump into someone
Ask for help
Interrupt a conversation
2. 麻烦你一下 (má fan nǐ yí xià)
= Could I trouble you for a second?
Sounds polite without being too stiff. Works perfectly when asking for a favor.
3. 辛苦了 (xīn kǔ le)
= Thanks for your hard work
This phrase shows appreciation in a kind, culturally respectful way—great after someone does something for you.
Want to sound more natural when speaking Chinese? Start using phrases like these in daily conversations and you’ll instantly come off as friendlier and more culturally aware. Get a free Chinese trial lesson!
