When it comes to congratulating someone on their wedding in Chinese, there are various formal and informal ways to express your warm wishes. Chinese culture values the importance of family and relationships, and weddings hold a special place in their hearts. Whether you’re attending a Chinese wedding or want to send your best wishes from afar, this guide will provide you with the essential phrases, tips, and examples you need to express congratulations in Chinese.
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Formal Expressions
When conveying congratulations in a formal setting, it is important to show respect and use polite language. Here are some phrases you can use:
- 恭喜发财 (gōng xǐ fā cái) – May you have a prosperous life.
- 百年好合 (bǎi nián hǎo hé) – May your marriage last forever.
- 新婚快乐 (xīn hūn kuài lè) – Happy newlyweds.
- 祝你们白头偕老 (zhù nǐ men bái tóu xié lǎo) – Wishing you a happy and harmonious marriage until old age.
Informal Expressions
When you’re congratulating friends or close acquaintances, you can use more informal expressions to convey your excitement and warm wishes:
- 恭喜恭喜 (gōng xǐ gōng xǐ) – Congratulations, congratulations!
- 真心祝福你们 (zhēn xīn zhù fú nǐ men) – Sincerely wishing you both.
- 祝百年好合，永结同心 (zhù bǎi nián hǎo hé, yǒng jié tóng xīn) – Wishing you a harmonious and everlasting union.
- 愿你们幸福美满 (yuàn nǐ men xìng fú měi mǎn) – May you both enjoy happiness and fulfillment.
Tips for Saying Congratulations in Chinese:
- Use the appropriate level of formality depending on your relationship with the couple.
- If you’re attending a Chinese wedding, it’s customary to give a red envelope (红包, hóng bāo) filled with money as a gift. Make sure to write down your congratulatory message on the envelope.
- Avoid mentioning unlucky or negative words such as “death” or “separation” in your message, as they are considered inappropriate for a joyous occasion like a wedding.
- Consider adding personal anecdotes or well-wishes that are specific to the couple to make your message more heartfelt.
- Practice the pronunciation of the chosen phrase before using it to ensure you convey your wishes accurately.
Congratulations on your wedding! May your life together be filled with love, happiness, and prosperity. 祝你们新婚快乐！愿你们的生活充满爱、幸福和繁荣。
Remember, expressing congratulations in Chinese is a wonderful way to show your support and joy for the couple. By choosing the right phrases and delivering your wishes with sincerity, you can bring extra warmth to their special day.
