敬语 (jìng yǔ) — honorific language, polite expressions

Definition

敬语 is a fixed term for honorific, respectful language used toward elders, customers, or superiors — a cultural norm in formal Chinese, not just any polite word.

noun

honorific languagepolite expressions

Examples

，敬语。
Xiě shāng wù yóu jiàn shí, yào shǐ yòng shì dàng de jìng yǔ.
When writing business emails, you should use appropriate polite language.
，敬语。
Duì zhǎng bèi shuō huà, zuì hǎo yòng jìng yǔ biǎo shì zūn zhòng.
When speaking to elders, it's best to use honorific language to show respect.
敬语。
Fú wù yuán duì kè rén yòng le hěn duō jìng yǔ.
The waiter used a lot of polite language toward the guests.

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