If you’ve ever wondered how to say Happy New Year in Chinese, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll show you some of the most common and meaningful ways to share New Year wishes in both Mandarin and Cantonese.
Chinese New Year greetings aren’t just simple phrases; they’re a way to share joy, respect, and hope for the year ahead.
The words you choose can express good luck and prosperity, health and happiness, or success and peace.
I’ll help you understand what each phrase means, when to use it, and how to pronounce it naturally. If you’re greeting friends, family, or coworkers, you’ll find the right words to make your wishes warm and genuine.
Let’s get started with easy and thoughtful ways to greet others in the Chinese New Year spirit.
Common New Year Greetings to Use
These greetings are the most widely used during Chinese New Year celebrations. They express joy, good wishes, and positivity to start the year on a happy and hopeful note.
1. Xīnnián kuàilè (shin nyen kwai luh)
This phrase means “Happy New Year” and is the most common and friendly way to greet someone during the Chinese New Year. It expresses happiness, warmth, and hope for a joyful start to the new year.
You can use it with anyone, friends, family, coworkers, or elders, as it’s simple, polite, and easy to remember.
Saying “Xīnnián kuàilè” shows respect and joy, making it an essential phrase to learn. It’s commonly used in greetings and messages to wish joy and luck for the year ahead.
- In Mandarin: Xin Nian Kuai Le: Pronounced “shin nyen kwai luh.” Xin nian means “new year,” and kuai le means “happy.” Together, they form a direct and cheerful wish for happiness in the new year.
- In Cantonese: Sun Nin Fai Lok: Pronounced “soon neen fai lok.” Sun nin means “new year,” and fai lok means “happy.”
2. Gōng xǐ fā cái (gong shee fah tsai)
This phrase means “Wishing You a Prosperous New Year” and is one of the most popular greetings during the Chinese New Year. It expresses wishes for wealth, success, and good fortune in the coming year.
You can use it with anyone, friends, family, business partners, or elders, since it’s a respectful and cheerful way to spread positivity.
It’s often shared during celebrations or written on red banners to wish wealth and joy.
- In Mandarin: Gong Xi Fa Cai: Pronounced “gong shee fah tsai.” Gong xi means “congratulations” and is also a way to wish one joy. Fa cai means “to become rich” or “to make money.”
- In Cantonese: Gong Hei Fat Choi: Pronounced “gong hay fat choy.” Gong hei means “congratulations,” and fat choi means “to get rich.”
3. Xīnxiǎng shì chéng (shin syang shir chung)
This phrase means “May All Your Wishes Come True” and is a heartfelt way to express hope and encouragement for someone’s dreams and goals.
It’s perfect to use with close friends, family members, or anyone starting something new in the coming year.
The phrase carries warmth and sincerity, making it an ideal wish for celebrations, greetings, or even New Year cards. It represents optimism, motivation, and positive beginnings for the year ahead.
- In Mandarin: Xin Xiang Shi Cheng: Pronounced “shin syang shir chung.” Xin xiang means “heart’s desire” or “wish,” and shi cheng means “come true.”
- In Cantonese: Sam Sheung Si Sing: Pronounced “sam seung see sing.” Sam sheung means “what the heart desires,” and si sing means “come true.”
4. Dàjí dàlì (dah jee dah lee)
This phrase means “Wishing You Good Fortune and Success” and is a classic Chinese New Year greeting that expresses hopes for prosperity, luck, and smooth achievements.
It’s often used to encourage someone entering a new year of opportunities, perfect for coworkers, students, or business associates.
This wish shows care and optimism, expressing hope for success and happiness in the year ahead.
- In Mandarin: Da Ji Da Li: Pronounced “dah jee dah lee.” Da ji means “great luck,” and da li means “great profit” or “good outcomes.”
- In Cantonese: Dai Gat Dai Lei: Pronounced “dai gut dai lay.” Dai gat means “great luck,” and dai lei means “great benefit.”
5. Héjiā huānlè (her jya hwan luh)
This phrase means “Have a Joyful and Peaceful New Year” and expresses warmth, happiness, and harmony.
It’s perfect for family members, close friends, and loved ones as it conveys a wish for a happy home and calm days ahead.
The phrase reflects the spirit of unity and peace that the Chinese New Year celebrates, reminding people to cherish relationships and share joy as they welcome a fresh start.
- In Mandarin: He Jia Huan Le: Pronounced “her jya hwan luh.” He jia means “harmonious family,” and huan le means “joyful” or “happy.”
- In Cantonese: Wo Ga Wun Lok: Pronounced “woh ga wun lok.” Wo ga means “happy family,” and wun lok means “joyful.”
6. Zhù nǐ xīnnián kuàilè (joo nee shin nyen kwai luh)
This phrase means “Cheers to a Bright and Happy Year Ahead” and is a friendly, uplifting way to wish someone happiness and positivity for the coming year.
It suits both formal and casual settings, perfect for friends, coworkers, or anyone you wish to encourage.
The phrase conveys warmth and optimism, reminding others to look forward with hope and celebrate new beginnings with joy and enthusiasm.
- In Mandarin: Zhu Ni Xin Nian Kuai Le: Pronounced “joo nee shin nyen kwai luh.” Zhu ni means “wish you,” and xin nian kuai le means “happy new year.”
- In Cantonese: Juk Nei Sun Nin Fai Lok: Pronounced “jook nay soon neen fai lok.” Juk nei means “wish you,” and sun nin fai lok means “happy new year.”
7. Shēntǐ jiànkāng (shen tee jyen kahng)
This phrase means “Wishing You Happiness and Good Health” and is one of the most thoughtful and caring greetings for the Chinese New Year.
It’s ideal for family members, elders, or anyone you deeply respect. The phrase expresses hope for a healthy, joyful, and fulfilling year ahead, values highly cherished in Chinese culture.
It’s often said during visits, written in greeting cards, or shared with loved ones to show sincere care and affection.
- In Mandarin: Shen Ti Jian Kang: Pronounced “shen tee jyen kahng.” Shen ti means “body,” and jian kang means “healthy.”
- In Cantonese: San Tai Gin Hong: Pronounced “sun tai gin hong.” San tai means “body,” and gin hong means “healthy.”
8. Gōngxǐ fācái (gong shee fah tsai)
This phrase means “May This New Year Bring You Luck and Prosperity” and is one of the most well-known Chinese New Year greetings.
It conveys blessings for financial success, fortune, and joy. This phrase fits every occasion, from greeting relatives and friends to business partners and clients.
It carries both celebration and encouragement, making it one of the most repeated wishes during the festive season.
- In Mandarin: Gong Xi Fa Cai: Pronounced “gong shee fah tsai.” Gong xi means “congratulations” or “wishing joy,” and fa cai means “to prosper” or “to get rich.”
- In Cantonese: Gong Hei Fat Choi: Pronounced “gong hay fat choy.” Gong hei means “congratulations,” and fat choi means “prosperity.”
Wishes for Wealth and Prosperity
These greetings center on wealth, good luck, and steady growth. They’re commonly shared to wish someone a prosperous year full of opportunities, success, and lasting fortune in work and life.
9. Gōngxǐ fācái (gong shee fah tsai)
This phrase means “May You Be Prosperous and Wealthy” and is one of the most famous Chinese New Year greetings. It expresses wishes for financial success, growth, and good fortune in the coming year.
You can use it with friends, relatives, coworkers, or even business partners.
It’s often heard in celebrations, printed on red decorations, and said during family gatherings as a way to share blessings of prosperity and happiness.
- In Mandarin: Gong Xi Fa Cai: Pronounced “gong shee fah tsai.” Gong xi means “congratulations” or “wishing joy,” and fa cai means “to get rich” or “to prosper.”
- In Cantonese: Gong Hei Fat Choi: Pronounced “gong hay fat choy.” Gong hei means “congratulations,” and fat choi means “prosperity.”
10. Cái yuán gǔn gǔn (tsai ywen goon goon)
This phrase means “May Wealth Flow In Continuously” and is a joyful and energetic greeting often used during the Chinese New Year to wish someone steady financial growth.
It reflects a desire for abundance, success, and good fortune that never stops. You can say it to coworkers, partners, or anyone you wish a prosperous year.
It’s a warm and uplifting phrase that captures the spirit of ongoing luck and opportunity.
- In Mandarin: Cai Yuan Gun Gun: Pronounced “tsai ywen goon goon.” Cai yuan means “sources of wealth,” and gun gun means “rolling in continuously.”
- In Cantonese: Choi Yuen Gwan Gwan: Pronounced “choy yoon gwun gwun.” Choi yuen means “wealth,” and gwan gwun means “rolling in.”
11. Zhù nǐ dàjí dàlì (joo nee dah jee dah lee)
This phrase means “Wishing You Great Luck and Fortune” and is a cheerful, festive expression that combines good wishes for both luck and success.
It’s often used at the start of the Chinese New Year to inspire motivation and positivity. You can say it to coworkers, friends, or business partners to wish them smooth progress and profitable ventures.
The phrase conveys not only wealth but also good outcomes and opportunities in all areas of life.
- In Mandarin: Zhu Ni Da Ji Da Li: Pronounced “joo nee dah jee dah lee.” Zhu ni means “wish you,” da ji means “great luck,” and da li means “great success.”
- In Cantonese: Juk Nei Dai Gat Dai Lei: Pronounced “jook nay dai gut dai lay.” Juk nei means “wish you,” dai gat means “great luck,” and dai lei means “great benefit.”
12. Fú xīng gāo zhào (foo shing gow jow)
This phrase means “May the Lucky Star Shine Upon You” and is a poetic and traditional Chinese New Year greeting. It symbolizes blessings, success, and favorable fortune throughout the year.
You can use it for friends, elders, or coworkers as a wish for smooth days and bright opportunities ahead.
The phrase reflects ancient Chinese culture, where stars were seen as signs of destiny and good luck guiding one’s path.
- In Mandarin: Fu Xing Gao Zhao: Pronounced “foo shing gow jow.” Fu xing means “lucky star,” and gao zhao means “shine brightly.”
- In Cantonese: Fook Sing Go Jiu: Pronounced “fook sing go jee-ow.” Fook sing means “star of luck,” and go jiu means “shining high.”
13. Jīn yù mǎn táng (jeen yoo mahn tahng)
This phrase means “May Your Home Be Filled with Gold and Jade,” a traditional greeting that symbolizes wealth, prosperity, and abundance.
It’s often said to families or business owners, wishing them financial success and a comfortable life.
The phrase represents not only material richness but also harmony and happiness at home, making it a thoughtful wish during the festive season.
- In Mandarin: Jin Yu Man Tang: Pronounced “jeen yoo mahn tahng.” Jin means “gold,” yu means “jade,” and man tang means “filling the house.”
- In Cantonese: Gam Yuk Moon Tong: Pronounced “gum yook moon tong.” Gam yuk means “gold and jade,” and moon tong means “filling the hall.”
14. Cái yùn héng tōng (tsai yoon heng toong)
This phrase means “Wishing You Smooth and Steady Fortune” and conveys the hope that one’s wealth, career, and luck will continue to grow without obstacles.
It’s often used for coworkers, business partners, or anyone starting new ventures.
The greeting reflects encouragement and positivity, reminding others that success is a journey made easier with steady progress and good luck by their side.
- In Mandarin: Cai Yun Heng Tong: Pronounced “tsai yoon heng toong.” Cai yun means “fortune” or “wealth luck,” and heng tong means “smooth and successful.”
- In Cantonese: Choi Wan Hang Tung: Pronounced “choy wun hang toong.” Choi wan means “luck in wealth,” and hang tung means “goes smoothly.”
15. Fā cái zhāo bǎo (fah tsai jow bao)
This phrase means “May You Gain Wealth and Treasures” and is a vibrant and auspicious wish for prosperity. It’s perfect for business owners, colleagues, or anyone you want to bless with success and abundance.
The phrase conveys not only material wealth but also good fortune in opportunities, relationships, and happiness.
It’s a classic New Year’s phrase used to bring positivity and drive for the months ahead.
- In Mandarin: Fa Cai Zhao Bao: Pronounced “fah tsai jow bao.” Fa cai means “gain wealth,” and zhao bao means “attract treasures.”
- In Cantonese: Fat Choi Jiu Bo: Pronounced “fat choy jee-oh boh.” Fat choi means “wealth,” and jiu bo means “bringing treasures.”
16. Hóng yùn dāng tóu (hong yoon dahng toe)
This phrase means “May Good Luck Come Right at the Start” and is a lively way to wish someone an auspicious beginning to the New Year.
It reflects optimism and hope that fortune will arrive early and stay throughout the year. This greeting is perfect for anyone beginning new plans, jobs, or projects.
It sets a positive tone for success and is shared with coworkers, students, or entrepreneurs.
- In Mandarin: Hong Yun Dang Tou: Pronounced “hong yoon dahng toe.” Hong yun means “good luck,” and dang tou means “at the beginning.”
- In Cantonese: Hung Wan Dong Tau: Pronounced “hung wun dong toe.” Hung wan means “good fortune,” and dong tau means “at the head” or “right away.”
Health, Happiness, and Longevity Wishes
These greetings express care, peace, and well-being, three of the most cherished values in Chinese culture. They’re perfect for wishing loved ones good health, long life, and joy throughout the New Year.
17. Shēntǐ jiànkāng (shen tee jyen kahng)
This phrase means “Wishing You Good Health” and is one of the most heartfelt greetings used during the Chinese New Year.
It expresses genuine care and kindness, making it ideal for family members, elders, and close friends. Health is deeply valued in Chinese culture, as it’s seen as the foundation for happiness and success.
Saying this wish shows your thoughtfulness and desire for others to stay well and strong throughout the year.
- In Mandarin: Shen Ti Jian Kang: Pronounced “shen tee jyen kahng.” Shen ti means “body,” and jian kang means “healthy.”
- In Cantonese: San Tai Gin Hong: Pronounced “sun tai gin hong.” San tai means “body,” and gin hong means “healthy.”
18. Suìsuì píng’ān (sway sway ping ahn)
This phrase means “Wishing You Peace Year After Year” and conveys blessings of safety, harmony, and protection.
It’s a meaningful phrase that expresses hope for a calm and trouble-free year ahead. You can say it to anyone, especially family members and close friends, as a way to show love and care.
It’s also a common phrase during festive greetings, symbolizing peace in both daily life and relationships.
- In Mandarin: Sui Sui Ping An: Pronounced “sway sway ping ahn.” Sui sui means “year after year,” and ping an means “peace” or “safety.”
- In Cantonese: Seui Seui Ping On: Pronounced “soy soy ping on.” Seui seui means “every year,” and ping on means “safe and peaceful.”
19. Xìngfú měimǎn (shing foo may mahn)
This phrase means “Wishing You a Life Full of Happiness” and conveys heartfelt wishes for lasting joy, love, and satisfaction.
It’s ideal for families, friends, or newlyweds, celebrating happiness and a positive outlook. The phrase reflects the Chinese belief that true happiness comes from harmony, kindness, and gratitude.
Saying this greeting shows your sincere hope for someone’s happiness in every part of their life.
- In Mandarin: Xing Fu Mei Man: Pronounced “shing foo may mahn.” Xing fu means “happiness” or “well-being,” and mei man means “complete” or “fulfilled.”
- In Cantonese: Hing Fook Mei Mun: Pronounced “hing fook may moon.” Hing fook means “happiness,” and mei mun means “fulfillment.”
20. Wànshì rúyì (wahn shir roo yee)
This phrase means “May Everything Go as You Wish” and is one of the most graceful and well-loved Chinese New Year blessings.
It’s suitable for everyone, from friends and relatives to coworkers, because it expresses good intentions without being too formal or personal.
The phrase embodies optimism, luck, and confidence, wishing the listener success in all aspects of life.
- In Mandarin: Wan Shi Ru Yi: Pronounced “wahn shir roo yee.” Wan shi means “everything” or “all matters,” and ru yi means “as you wish.”
- In Cantonese: Maan Si Yu Yi: Pronounced “maan see you yee.” Maan si means “everything,” and yu yi means “as desired.”
21. Héxié měimǎn (her shyeh may mahn)
This phrase means “Wishing You Harmony and Fulfillment” and conveys hopes for peace and contentment.
It’s often used for families, couples, or coworkers to wish for smooth relationships and a balanced, happy environment.
The greeting reflects a traditional Chinese belief that harmony at home and in work brings prosperity and long-lasting happiness. It’s a gentle, thoughtful way to spread goodwill during the New Year.
- In Mandarin: He Xie Mei Man: Pronounced “her shyeh may mahn.” He xie means “harmony” or “peace,” and mei man means “fulfillment” or “completeness.”
- In Cantonese: Wo Hip Mei Mun: Pronounced “woh hip may moon.” Wo hip means “harmony,” and mei mun means “contentment.”
22. Chánglè wúbiān (chahng luh woo byan)
This phrase means “Wishing You Endless Joy” and expresses a hope for continuous happiness and laughter throughout the year.
It’s a bright and cheerful greeting that fits well for friends, children, or anyone who brings joy into your life.
The phrase highlights the importance of a joyful spirit in Chinese culture, reminding people to enjoy life and cherish the little moments that make each day special.
- In Mandarin: Chang Le Wu Bian: Pronounced “chahng luh woo byan.” Chang le means “lasting joy,” and wu bian means “without end.”
- In Cantonese: Cheung Lok Mo Bin: Pronounced “cheung lok mo been.” Cheung lok means “long-lasting happiness,” and mo bin means “without limit.”
23. Fúshòu ānkāng (foo show ahn kahng)
This phrase means “Wishing You Happiness, Long Life, and Health” and is one of the most respectful and heartfelt Chinese New Year greetings.
It’s often said to elders, parents, or teachers as a sign of love and gratitude. The phrase reflects three key blessings in Chinese culture: happiness, longevity, and health.
It’s a warm and sincere wish that shows deep respect and care.
- In Mandarin: Fu Shou An Kang: Pronounced “foo show ahn kahng.” Fu means “happiness,” shou means “longevity,” and an kang means “peace and health.”
- In Cantonese: Fook Sau On Hong: Pronounced “fook sow on hong.” Fook means “happiness,” sau means “long life,” and on hong means “peace and health.”
24. Niánnián yǒu yú (nyen nyen yo yoo)
This phrase means “Wishing You Abundance Every Year” and symbolizes prosperity and good fortune that continues without end.
It’s popular during the New Year, often linked with fish, as yú (fish) sounds like “abundance.”
This greeting is cheerful, festive, and perfect for friends, coworkers, and families. It expresses the wish that each year brings more success, wealth, and happiness.
- In Mandarin: Nian Nian You Yu: Pronounced “nyen nyen yo yoo.” Nian nian means “year after year,” and you yu means “have abundance” or “plenty.”
- In Cantonese: Nin Nin Yau Yu: Pronounced “neen neen yau yoo.” Nin nin means “every year,” and yau yu means “abundance” or “surplus.”
Inspirational and Success Wishes
These greetings celebrate progress, motivation, and hard work. They’re often shared to inspire confidence and wish others steady growth, career success, and bright opportunities in the coming year.
25. Zhù nǐ gōngzuò shùnlì (joo nee gong dzwor shoon lee)
This phrase means “Wishing You Success at Work” and is often used to encourage coworkers, business partners, or students entering a new phase of their careers.
It expresses hope for smooth progress, good teamwork, and productive results in professional life.
It’s a polite and motivating greeting, perfect for formal messages or when wishing someone well in their work or new projects during the New Year.
- In Mandarin: Zhu Ni Gong Zuo Shun Li: Pronounced “joo nee gong dzwor shoon lee.” Zhu ni means “wish you,” gong zuo means “work,” and shun li means “smooth or successful.”
- In Cantonese: Juk Nei Gung Jok Soon Lei: Pronounced “jook nay gung jok soon lay.” Juk nei means “wish you,” gung jok means “work,” and soon lei means “goes smoothly.”
26. Bùbù gāoshēng (boo boo gow shung)
This phrase means “Wishing You Step-by-Step Success” and symbolizes steady growth and promotion.
It’s a traditional Chinese New Year greeting that expresses wishes for career advancement, personal development, and continued achievement.
You can say it to students, professionals, or anyone striving toward their goals. The phrase reflects perseverance, progress, and hope for upward movement in all areas of life.
- In Mandarin: Bu Bu Gao Sheng: Pronounced “boo boo gow shung.” Bu bu means “step by step,” and gao sheng means “rise higher” or “get promoted.”
- In Cantonese: Bo Bo Go Sing: Pronounced “bo bo go sing.” Bo bo means “step by step,” and go sing means “rise high.”
27. Kāiyùn chánglái (kai yoon chahng lie)
This phrase means “Wishing You Good Luck Always” and is a cheerful, uplifting greeting often used to wish someone continuous good fortune.
It’s perfect for anyone, friends, coworkers, or students, starting a new journey or project in the New Year.
The phrase inspires confidence and reminds others that luck and success can follow them anywhere. It’s commonly heard in festive greetings and motivational messages.
- In Mandarin: Kai Yun Chang Lai: Pronounced “kai yoon chahng lie.” Kai yun means “good luck,” and chang lai means “come often” or “always arrive.”
- In Cantonese: Hoi Wan Cheung Loi: Pronounced “hoy wun cheung loy.” Hoi wan means “fortune,” and cheung loi means “comes often.”
28. Shìyè téngfēi (shir yeh tung fay)
This phrase means “Wishing Your Career Soar High” and is a motivational greeting for those pursuing professional success or new ventures.
It’s especially fitting for colleagues, entrepreneurs, or graduates. The phrase represents ambition, progress, and recognition, values that align with the forward-looking spirit of the New Year.
Saying it shows encouragement and belief in someone’s potential to rise to new heights.
- In Mandarin: Shi Ye Teng Fei: Pronounced “shir yeh tung fay.” Shi ye means “career” or “business,” and teng fei means “to soar” or “to take off.”
- In Cantonese: Si Yip Tang Fei: Pronounced “see yip tang fay.” Si yip means “career,” and tang fei means “rise high.”
29. Xuéyè yǒu chéng – (shweh yeh yo chuhng)
This phrase means “Wishing You Success in Studies” and is most often used for students, learners, or anyone preparing for exams or training.
It expresses encouragement and confidence in their efforts, symbolizing growth, perseverance, and achievement.
It’s a thoughtful and uplifting greeting to give young learners or anyone pursuing education, showing belief in their potential to succeed and thrive academically.
- In Mandarin: Xue Ye You Cheng: Pronounced “shweh yeh yo chuhng.” Xue ye means “studies” or “learning,” and you cheng means “achieve success.”
- In Cantonese: Hok Yip Yau Sing: Pronounced “hawk yip yau sing.” Hok yip means “study,” and yau sing means “succeed.”
30. Jíxiáng rúyì (jee shyang roo yee)
This phrase means “Wishing You Good Fortune and Smooth Progress” and combines two powerful blessings, luck and fulfillment.
It’s great for anyone starting something new, like a job, business, or fresh chapter in life.
The phrase reflects harmony and success, expressing hopes for everything to go well and for luck to stay close all year long.
- In Mandarin: Ji Xiang Ru Yi: Pronounced “jee shyang roo yee.” Ji xiang means “auspicious” or “lucky,” and ru yi means “as you wish.”
- In Cantonese: Gat Cheung Yu Yi: Pronounced “gut cheung you yee.” Gat cheung means “good luck,” and yu yi means “as desired.”
31. Gōngchéng míngjiù (gong chuhng ming jyo)
This phrase means “Wishing You a Great Achievement” and is often used to celebrate success or to encourage someone working toward a big goal.
It’s an inspiring greeting that expresses admiration and confidence in another person’s abilities. Ideal for professionals, students, or entrepreneurs, it reflects dedication and hard work leading to success.
It reflects respect and encouragement, making it suitable for both formal and personal greetings.
- In Mandarin: Gong Cheng Ming Jiu: Pronounced “gong chuhng ming jyo.” Gong cheng means “accomplishment,” and ming jiu means “fame” or “recognition.”
- In Cantonese: Gung Sing Ming Kau: Pronounced “gung sing ming kow.” Gung sing means “success,” and ming kau means “well-known.”
32. Chénggōng xìngfú (chuhng gong shing foo)
This phrase means “Wishing You Success and Happiness” and beautifully combines two essential blessings, accomplishment and joy.
It’s ideal for anyone celebrating progress or beginning new ventures. The phrase reflects balance, suggesting that true success includes both achievement and personal contentment.
It’s a warm, positive greeting to encourage others to pursue goals while staying happy and fulfilled.
- In Mandarin: Cheng Gong Xing Fu: Pronounced “chuhng gong shing foo.” Cheng gong means “success,” and xing fu means “happiness.”
- In Cantonese: Sing Gung Hing Fook: Pronounced “sing gung hing fook.” Sing gung means “success,” and hing fook means “happiness.”
Lucky Idioms and Symbolic Sayings
These greetings are inspired by traditional Chinese symbols and idioms that represent luck, strength, and harmony. They’re often shared to bless others with prosperity, balance, and positive energy for the year ahead.
33. Lóng mǎ jīngshén (long mah jing shen)
This phrase means “Wishing You Energy and Vitality” and is one of the most admired idioms in Chinese culture.
It symbolizes the strength of a dragon and the spirit of a horse, two animals that represent power, endurance, and determination.
This greeting is ideal for wishing someone motivation, good health, and a strong spirit in the coming year. It’s often used for students, professionals, and elders as a motivating wish for energy and enthusiasm.
- In Mandarin: Long Ma Jing Shen: Pronounced “long mah jing shen.” Long ma means “dragon and horse,” and jing shen means “spirit” or “vitality.”
- In Cantonese: Lung Ma Ging San: Pronounced “lung mah ging san.” Lung ma means “dragon and horse,” and ging san means “spirit.”
34. Fèng huáng chéng xiáng (fung hwahng chung shyang)
This phrase means “Wishing You Harmony and Good Fortune” and carries deep cultural symbolism.
The phoenix (fèng huáng) represents grace, balance, and luck, while chéng xiáng means auspiciousness or good omens.
It’s a beautiful greeting that reflects peace and prosperity, often used to bless families, couples, or friends. The phrase captures the essence of renewal and hope, making it a thoughtful wish for the New Year.
- In Mandarin: Feng Huang Cheng Xiang: Pronounced “fung hwahng chung shyang.” Feng huang means “phoenix,” and cheng xiang means “bringing good fortune.”
- In Cantonese: Fung Wong Sing Cheung: Pronounced “fung wong sing cheung.” Fung Wong means “phoenix,” and Sing Cheung means “symbol of luck.”
35. Lóng téng hǔ yuè (long tung hoo yweh)
This phrase means “May You Rise with Strength and Power” and symbolizes unstoppable energy and success.
The dragon (lóng) and tiger (hǔ) are two of the most powerful symbols in Chinese culture, representing courage, confidence, and determination.
This greeting is perfect for wishing someone a bold and prosperous year, filled with victories and new opportunities. It’s used to inspire professionals, entrepreneurs, and students to reach new heights.
- In Mandarin: Long Teng Hu Yue: Pronounced “long tung hoo yweh.” Long means “dragon,” teng means “soar,” hu means “tiger,” and yue means “leap.”
- In Cantonese: Lung Tang Fu Yeuk: Pronounced “lung tahng foo yuhk.” Lung means “dragon,” tang means “rise,” fu means “tiger,” and yeuk means “leap.”
36. Lóng fēi fèng wǔ (long fay fung woo)
This phrase means “Wishing You a Prosperous and Joyful Year” and paints a picture of dragons flying and phoenixes dancing, a symbol of harmony, prosperity, and celebration.
It’s used to wish someone a life filled with beauty, success, and happiness.
This greeting suits festive occasions, weddings, and family reunions, making it a poetic and positive wish for the New Year.
- In Mandarin: Long Fei Feng Wu: Pronounced “long fay fung woo.” Long means “dragon,” fei means “fly,” feng means “phoenix,” and wu means “dance.”
- In Cantonese: Lung Fei Fung Mo: Pronounced “lung fay fung mo.” Lung means “dragon,” fei means “fly,” fung means “phoenix,” and mo means “dance.”
37. Fú lù shòu xǐ (foo loo show shee)
This phrase means “Wishing You Blessings, Wealth, Longevity, and Happiness” and brings together four of the most powerful Chinese symbols of good fortune, Fu (happiness), Lu (wealth), Shou (long life), and Xi (joy).
It’s a complete and heartfelt greeting that covers every aspect of a good life.
You can use it for family, elders, or friends to express your best wishes for a year filled with good health, success, and joy.
- In Mandarin: Fu Lu Shou Xi: Pronounced “foo loo show shee.” Fu means “blessing,” lu means “prosperity,” shou means “longevity,” and xi means “happiness.”
- In Cantonese: Fook Luk Sau Hei: Pronounced “fook look sow hey.” Fook means “happiness,” luk means “wealth,” sau means “long life,” and hei means “joy.”
38. Xīng yùn gāo zhào (shing yoon gow jow)
This phrase means “May the Stars of Luck Shine Brightly on You” and expresses the hope for continuous good fortune and success.
It’s often used to wish someone an auspicious year filled with opportunities and smooth paths.
The phrase draws from the ancient Chinese belief that lucky stars bring protection and prosperity, making it an elegant and positive New Year blessing.
- In Mandarin: Xing Yun Gao Zhao: Pronounced “shing yoon gow jow.” Xing yun means “lucky stars,” and gao zhao means “shine brightly.”
- In Cantonese: Hing Wan Go Jiu: Pronounced “hing wun go jee-ow.” Hing wan means “good luck,” and go jiu means “shine high.”
39. Hóng yùn qí tiān (hong yoon chee tyan)
This phrase means “Wishing You Boundless Good Fortune” and is a lively and confident greeting that expresses unstoppable luck and success.
It’s often said at the beginning of the year to encourage positivity and enthusiasm. The phrase carries the imagery of “rising luck that touches the sky,” symbolizing a future filled with endless opportunities.
It’s ideal for wishing business owners, students, and professionals a strong start and lasting success.
- In Mandarin: Hong Yun Qi Tian: Pronounced “hong yoon chee tyan.” Hong yun means “good luck” or “fortune,” and qi tian means “rising to the sky.”
- In Cantonese: Hung Wan Kei Tin: Pronounced “hung wun kay tin.” Hung wan means “fortune,” and kei tin means “reach the heavens.”
40. Jí qìng yí táng (jee ching yee tahng)
This phrase means “Wishing Your Home Filled with Joy and Prosperity” and is a warm, family-centered blessing often used during New Year gatherings and celebrations.
It expresses the hope that happiness, harmony, and fortune fill the home throughout the year.
It’s a thoughtful phrase to use when visiting relatives or close friends, as it shows care for their happiness and success. It captures the heart of the Chinese New Year: togetherness, joy, and shared blessings.
- In Mandarin: Ji Qing Yi Tang: Pronounced “jee ching yee tahng.” Ji qing means “joyous atmosphere,” and yi tang means “throughout the hall” or “home.”
- In Cantonese: Gat Hing Yat Tong: Pronounced “gut hing yat tong.” Gat hing means “festive joy,” and yat tong means “entire home.”
Tips on Pronouncing Mandarin & Cantonese Greetings
Learning Chinese New Year greetings is easier when you understand the tone and rhythm of each language. This is how you can get them right:
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Tone Differences | • Mandarin has 4 tones: high, rising, dipping, and falling. • Cantonese has 6–9 tones depending on the region, so even small pitch changes can change meaning. |
| Simple Pronunciation Guide | • Use pinyin for Mandarin (e.g., Xīn Nián Kuài Lè). • Use Jyutping for Cantonese (e.g., San Nin Fai Lok). |
| Listening Tools for Practice | • Apps like Pleco, HelloChinese, and YouTube tutorials help you hear native tones. • Listen and repeat short phrases daily for better tone memory. |
| Avoid Common Mistakes | • Don’t rush your speech; focus on tones before speed. • Practice with native speakers or recorded audio to correct pitch and flow. |
Lucky Words and Symbols for Chinese New Year
Lucky words and symbols are a big part of the Chinese New Year. They bring wishes of wealth, joy, and success, often seen on red banners, envelopes, and gifts.
- Fu (Fú): Means “good fortune” or “blessing.” Often placed upside down on doors to show that luck has “arrived.”
- Hongbao (Hóngbāo): Red envelopes filled with money, given to share good luck and prosperity.
- Long (Lóng): The dragon stands for strength, power, and good fortune for the year ahead.
- Traditional Values: Phrases like Gong Xi Fa Cai (wish you wealth) and Shen Ti Jian Kang (good health) reflect care, respect, and family unity.
- Decorations and Gifts: These words and symbols appear on lanterns, cards, and home décor to welcome happiness and good luck.
Conclusion
As you reach the end of this guide, I hope you feel ready to try these greetings in real conversations.
Using Chinese New Year phrases isn’t just about language; it’s a way to show respect, connection, and appreciation for a rich tradition.
I encourage you to share these wishes with your friends, coworkers, or family to spread warmth and good fortune.
Each greeting carries a piece of culture and care, reminding us that a simple phrase can bring people closer.
So this New Year, I wish you all the best, Xīnnián kuàilè! (Mandarin) And Sun Nin Fai Lok! (Cantonese). May your year be full of happiness, peace, and success!