节哀顺变
jié āi shùn biàn
In Chinese, condolences is expressed as 节哀顺变 (jié āi shùn biàn).
节哀顺变 is a standard, formal way to offer condolences to someone who has recently lost a loved one.
Meaning: funeral expression (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally means to restrain one's grief and adapt to the changes brought by the loss.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
This expression is formal and polite, making it suitable for use with acquaintances, colleagues or elders.
How do you pronounce it?
jié āi shùn biàn
Did you know?
- In traditional Chinese funeral etiquette, the phrase is often accompanied by a slight bow, but unlike Western condolences, physical contact like a pat on the shoulder is often avoided to respect the mourning period.
- If you were to write 节哀顺变 in a formal sympathy card, you would often use traditional Chinese characters instead of simplified ones to convey a sense of gravity and historical weight.
- If you were to use this phrase in a very casual setting, such as via a text message to a peer, it could almost sound like you are lecturing them on how to behave.
Examples in context
- 我对您的损失表示深切的悼念。(Wǒ duì nín de sǔnshī biǎoshì shēnqiè de dàoniàn.)I offer my deepest condolences for your loss.
- 请接受我由衷的哀悼。(Qǐng jiēshòu wǒ yóuzhōng de āidào.)Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
- 知道你现在很难过，我会一直陪在你身边。(Zhīdào nǐ xiànzài hěn nánguò, wǒ huì yīzhí péi zài nǐ shēnbiān.)I know you are feeling sad right now, and I'll be here for you.
- 请节哀顺变。Qǐng jié āi shùn biàn.Please accept my condolences.
- 听到这个消息，请节哀顺变。Tīng dào zhè gè xiāoxi, qǐng jié āi shùn biàn.Upon hearing this news, please accept my condolences.
Example conversation
Xiaowen visits Haoran at his home after his grandfather passed away.
- 晓雯 Xiaowen浩然，请节哀顺变。Hàorán, qǐng jié āi shùn biàn.Haoran, please accept my condolences.
- 浩然 Haoran谢谢你的安慰。Xièxiè nǐ de ānwèi.Thank you for your comfort.
- 晓雯 Xiaowen你要保重身体。Nǐ yào bǎozhòng shēntǐ.You need to take care of yourself.
- 浩然 Haoran我会的。Wǒ huì de.I will.
