What does it mean word for word?
The phrase bao lì xì is composed of bao, meaning envelope or packet and lì xì, meaning lucky money or red envelope.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Northern Vietnam, the act of giving these red envelopes is often referred to as mừng tuổi, which means to wish or give age-celebrating money.
When do people say it?
During the Lunar New Year (Tết), these envelopes are given to children or elders to wish them luck and prosperity. In Vietnamese culture, red is considered a lucky color, so you should avoid using white envelopes as white represents death and funerals. When offering a red pocket, it is customary to hold it with both hands as a sign of respect. When you receive one, it is polite to say Cám ơn to show your gratitude.
Did you know?
- The term lì xì is a Vietnamese adaptation of the Cantonese phrase lai see, meaning 'come prosperity'.
- In modern Vietnam, some people have transitioned to using lì xì electronically via banking apps and QR codes during Tết.
- In some families, children are asked to perform a task or recite a poem before receiving their bao lì xì.
Examples in context
- Đã mua phong bì may mắn rồi!I've already bought lucky envelopes!
- Tất nhiên! Không thể quên mang theo tiền lì xì.Of course! Can't forget to bring the red pocket money.
- Em muốn nhận bao lì xì.I want to receive red envelopes.
- Mẹ mua nhiều bao lì xì cho em bé.Mother bought many red envelopes for the babies.
- Bao lì xì này màu đỏ rất đẹp.This red envelope is very beautiful.
Example conversation
Tuấn and Hương are talking about preparations for the Lunar New Year.
- TuấnHương đã mua bao lì xì chưa?Hương, have you bought red envelopes yet?
- HươngEm mua rồi, anh Tuấn ạ.I bought them, Tuấn.
- TuấnVậy là em đã chuẩn bị xong.So you are all prepared.
- HươngVâng, em muốn tặng cho các cháu.Yes, I want to give them to the children.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry bao lì xì, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
