You want to be polite but don't know the right words
A few polite words — 你好, 谢谢, 对不起, 请问 — change how you are received.
A few polite words go a long way in China.
What you'll see
If you worry about being rude without meaning to, the right opener fixes it:
Why it happens
Politeness is highly valued in China; adding “请问” before any question reads as respectful even with rough pronunciation.
Every case shows the diagnosis and the first step - free. The full step-by-step fix for this exact case, the decision tree, and the offline kit are $9.99.
When phrases alone aren't enough
In the kitWhen tone worries you, the kit gives the polite set with notes on when each fits.
1. The lookup table
The polite-phrase set with tone notes for each situation.
2. The trigger matrix
Which situation needs which phrase, so you show the right one first.
3. Offline printable version
The whole phrase kit as a printable card for low-signal moments.
The notice is on the wall. The parcel still has your name on it.
Ask it once, get one answer — not four things to read.
Voice first, screen second — the screen is what actually lands.
If nothing works
If you are still unsure of tone:
- Smile and use 谢谢 after any small help.
- Use 麻烦你了 when someone goes out of their way.
- Show the polite-phrase card from this guide.
Four levels deep — being understood never rests on one try.
Pointing at the screen is understood everywhere.
You are looking at 1 of 62
Most travellers know about three of these before they fly. This one is often not one of them.