# How to Say “Hello” in Mandarin Chinese

**你好** /nǐ hǎo/: Hello

## Pronunciation

The IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription for “你好” is /nǐ hǎo/. Break it down syllable by syllable and practice at a slow pace before building up to conversational speed.

## Context

This phrase belongs to the [Foundations: Tones & Pinyin](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/vocabulary/foundations-tones-pinyin.md) category. It is suitable for beginners.

## “Hello” in Other Languages

- French: [Bonjour](https://useorphi.com/learn/french/how-to-say/hello.md)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How do you pronounce "你好" in Mandarin Chinese?

The IPA pronunciation is /nǐ hǎo/. Practice saying it slowly, then at natural speed.

### What does "你好" mean in English?

"你好" translates to "Hello" in English. It belongs to the Foundations: Tones & Pinyin category.

### Is "你好" formal or informal in Mandarin Chinese?

This is a commonly used expression in everyday Mandarin Chinese conversation. It is appropriate for both casual and standard contexts.

## More Foundations: Tones & Pinyin Phrases

- ["Mom" → 妈](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/how-to-say/mom.md): /mā/
- ["Hemp" → 麻](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/how-to-say/hemp.md): /má/
- ["Horse" → 马](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/how-to-say/horse.md): /mǎ/
- ["Scold" → 骂](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/how-to-say/scold.md): /mà/
- ["Big" → 大](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/how-to-say/big.md): /dà/
- ["I/me" → 我](https://useorphi.com/learn/mandarin/how-to-say/ime.md): /wǒ/

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