How to Say "Thank you" in Chinese (Mandarin)

Category: Greetings & Basics

How to Pronounce "Thank you" in Mandarin

The Chinese word for 'Thank you' is 谢谢, pronounced Xièxiè in pinyin notation. To say it in English approximation: 'shyeh-shyeh'.

Breaking Down the Characters

Character	Pinyin	Notes
谢	Xièxiè	Character component
谢		Character component

Example Usage in Context

English	Chinese	Pinyin
I want to say 'Thank you'	谢谢	Xièxiè
How do you say Thank you?	"Thank you"怎么说？	"Thank you" zěnme shuō?
Please say Thank you slowly	请慢慢说谢谢	Qǐng màn màn shuō Xièxiè

Understanding Mandarin Tones

Mandarin Chinese uses four tones plus a neutral tone. Getting the tone right is essential - the same syllable with a different tone can mean a completely different word. The pinyin Xièxiè includes tone markers to guide correct pronunciation.

Tips for Learning Chinese Pronunciation

• Listen to native speakers on apps like HelloChinese or Duolingo
• Practice the four tones separately before combining them in words
• Record yourself and compare to native pronunciation
• The pinyin system is the standard romanisation - learn it once and use it everywhere

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