bao lì xì
[ʔɓaːw˧˧ li˨˩ si˨˩]
The English phrase "red envelope" is translated into Vietnamese as bao lì xì.
bao lì xì refers to the physical decorated paper envelope that holds money. While the full term describes the object, the word lì xì is often used to describe the act of giving the money itself.
Meaning: a decorated paper envelope containing lucky money (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term is composed of bao (envelope/bag) and lì xì (lucky money/red envelope).
When do people say it?
In Vietnamese culture, bao lì xì are traditionally given during Lunar New Year (Tết) to children and elders as a gesture of luck and prosperity.
Did you know?
- The term lì xì is derived from the Cantonese phrase 'li xi', which means 'red packet'. This reflects the historical influence of Southern Chinese trade and culture on Vietnamese customs during the Lunar New Year.
- Vietnamese culture emphasizes the 'luck' of the red color over the amount of money inside the bao lì xì, so the value of the gift is often kept secret to avoid comparison.
- While bao lì xì are most common during 'Tết', they are also given at weddings and first birthday celebrations to share joy and luck with the guests and children.
Examples in context
- Con bé thích bao lì xì lắm.The little girl loves red envelopes.
- Tôi đã chuẩn bị bao lì xì cho Tết.I have prepared red envelopes for Tet.
- Bao lì xì này có màu đỏ rất đẹp.This red envelope is a very beautiful red.
Example conversation
Tuấn is giving a red envelope to Hương during Lunar New Year.
- HươngChúc mừng năm mới, Tuấn nhé!Happy New Year, Tuấn!
- TuấnCảm ơn chị, tặng chị bao lì xì này.Thank you, here is a red envelope for you.
- HươngÔi, cảm ơn em nhiều nhé.Oh, thank you so much.
- TuấnChúc chị luôn vui vẻ!I wish you much happiness!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “red envelope” translations and entries bao lì xì, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
