In recent years, there has been increased discussion around the use of the Mandarin greeting “Ni hao” by non-Chinese people. Some view it as cultural appreciation while others see it as cultural appropriation. With over 1.4 billion Chinese speakers worldwide, “Ni hao” has become one of the most recognizable foreign language greetings. This article will explore the complex debate around who can and should say “Ni hao,” providing context on its origins, cultural significance, and perspectives on both sides of the discussion.
What Does “Ni Hao” Mean?
“Ni hao” (你好) is a greeting in Mandarin Chinese that directly translates to “you good.” It’s used similarly to saying “hello” or “good day” in English and can be used when meeting someone for the first time or seeing a familiar face. The phrase dates back centuries and arose when the Chinese valued collectivism and close relationships. Asking someone “Ni hao” showed care and interest in their wellbeing. While China has modernized, this greeting remains ingrained in the culture and language.
Who Originally Said “Ni Hao”?
As a foundational Mandarin greeting, “Ni hao” originated with the Han Chinese people, the largest ethnic group in China making up over 90% of the population. Han culture developed over thousands of years and is influential throughout China and beyond. In addition to Mandarin Chinese, the Han people helped shape Confucianism, Buddhism, calligraphy, medicine, cuisine, martial arts, and more. So when the Han people greeted each other with “Ni hao,” it reflected their collectivist worldview within their shared culture.
While the term likely dates back centuries, the first appearance of “Ni hao” in writing can be traced to the Han dynasty around the first century BC. One of the earliest records appears in the “Classic of Poetry,” a collection of poems from the 11th to 7th centuries BC. This demonstrates how integral the greeting was within Han society, establishing its significance within Chinese culture.
How Do Native Mandarin Speakers Use “Ni Hao” Today?
For Han Chinese people today, “Ni hao” remains ubiquitous. It’s used in both formal and informal situations with elders, peers, and children. In modern China, saying “Ni hao” follows customary greetings and shows respect. Within families, it demonstrates affection between parents and kids. With foreigners, “Ni hao” signals welcome and friendship. While China has changed enormously, this greeting persists in daily interactions.
Additionally, “Ni hao” is often one of the first Mandarin phrases taught to foreign language learners. It provides a doorway into Chinese culture. As China continues rising on the global stage, hundreds of millions of English speakers are now learning Mandarin. Using “Ni hao” properly represents a milestone in their studies. Within China, hearing accurate tones and pronunciation conveys deeper interest in the language.
When Did “Ni Hao” Enter English Vernacular?
While “Ni hao” has existed for millennia within China, it only entered mainstream English vernacular in the mid-1900s. As cultural exchange increased between China and western nations, “Ni hao” appeared in American and British pop culture. Early examples include:
- The 1936 film The General Died at Dawn starring Gary Cooper as an American in Shanghai
- The hit song “China Nights (Shina No Yoru)” by Japanese composer Hattori Ryoichi released in English in 1940
- The Rodgers and Hammerstein musical South Pacific in 1949 featuring American sailors in a romance with a young Chinese woman
These early references planted “Ni hao” in the minds of English speakers. But it wasn’t until the cultural revolution of the 1960s that the phrase gained real traction in the west. As counterculture sought eastern wisdom, words like “guru,” “karma,” and “Zen” entered American vernacular. “Ni hao” rode this wave, becoming a recognizable fragment of Chinese culture.
Why Do Some Non-Chinese People Say “Ni Hao”?
Today, it’s commonplace to hear non-Chinese people greet each other with “Ni hao,” especially children. There are several factors behind this trend:
- Pop culture familiarity – From Hollywood films to TV, “Ni hao” is frequently used in depictions of Chinese people. This permeates society.
- Increased China awareness – China’s global prominence has made Chinese culture more visible domestically.
- Multiculturalism – Ethnically diverse populations mean more exposure to different languages and customs.
- Foreign language education – Mandarin is increasingly offered in schools, starting students young.
For non-Chinese individuals saying “Ni hao,” motivations generally include:
- Mimicking Chinese greetings seen in media or public
- Signaling interest in or appreciation for Chinese culture
- Teasing friends in a playful, friendly manner
- Following habits picked up in Mandarin language courses
In children specifically, there is an inclination to mimic different languages and accents while playing. Saying “Ni hao” allows them to reenact Chinese culture absorbed from their environment.
Why Do Some Find This Controversial?
In recent years, increased discussion around cultural appropriation has put everyday phrases like “Ni hao” under scrutiny. Those who take issue when non-Chinese individuals say “Ni hao” make several arguments:
- Mocking pronunciations – Saying “Ni hao” in exaggerated or purposefully incorrect ways mocks the Chinese language.
- Making assumptions – Assuming any Asian person speaks Mandarin Chinese is problematic.
- Exotifying culture – Reducing Chinese culture down to “Ni hao” exoticizes and others it.
- Trivializing significance – Using “Ni hao” casually overlooks its cultural significance.
Critics also contend it perpetuates harmful Asian stereotypes. When non-Chinese individuals casually use “Ni hao” or other Mandarin phrases, it can come across as mocking or assert racial differences.
What Do Chinese People Think About This?
Within Chinese and Chinese-American communities, perspectives on non-Chinese people saying “Ni hao” are diverse. Some key opinions include:
- Appreciating interest in Chinese culture, especially children
- Feeling pride in the global recognition of China
- Finding it harmless cultural exchange
- Being uncomfortable with mock Chinese accents
- Wishing proper tones were used
- Not wanting to be racially targeted if Asian
However, many Chinese speakers emphasize context matters. For example, they may welcome tourists saying “Ni hao” when visiting China but feel differently hearing it from a random person on the street.
There is no clear consensus within the Chinese and Asian American community. Experiences vary greatly depending on generation, nationality, immigration background, and individual perspective. This diversity of thought highlights the complexity surrounding this issue.
How Should You Use “Ni Hao”?
Given the cultural significance of “Ni hao” for Han Chinese people, it’s important for non-Chinese individuals to be thoughtful before using the term casually. Here are some guidelines on using it respectfully:
- Don’t assume an Asian person’s ethnicity or that they speak Mandarin.
- Use proper pronunciation and tones when able.
- Reserve for relevant contexts like learning Mandarin or appreciating Chinese culture.
- Consider whether you would feel comfortable greeting a Chinese person this way.
- Avoid mocking accents or invoking stereotypes.
- Understand the complex feelings behind this phrase for Asian people.
It’s also wise to thoughtfully observe how Chinese and Asian people use “Ni hao” in natural interactions. This provides clues for when it may or may not be appropriate in a given situation or relationship.
How Can We Foster Cross-Cultural Respect?
As our society becomes more multicultural, we need greater empathy when navigating cross-cultural issues like “Ni hao.” Here are tips for building understanding:
- Listen to diverse perspectives within the Chinese community without judgment.
- Amplify Chinese voices sharing personal takes on cultural appropriation.
- Consider nuance and context in cross-cultural interactions.
- Examine our own biases and privilege.
- Remain open to learning our blindspots around race and ethnicity.
Moving forward, we can create an inclusive culture where diverse greetings are celebrated thoughtfully. By listening first, prioritizing understanding, and speaking sensitively, we build bridges across all cultures.
Conclusion
The debate around non-Chinese people saying “Ni hao” reveals cross-cultural complexities surrounding even common phrases. While some see it as harmless or even positive cultural exchange, others feel it trivializes Chinese culture or promotes damaging stereotypes. There are thoughtful arguments on all sides stemming from diverse lived experiences.
This discussion presents an opportunity to practice cultural empathy. Seeking to understand different perspectives, recognizing our own blindspots, and finding common ground allows us to navigate these nuances and build community across cultures. With care, compassion and mindfulness, our shared world can keep getting closer.