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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