How to use these greetings
- Say 新年快樂 (Happy New Year) to anyone, or 恭喜發財 to wish them prosperity.
- Pick a wish that suits the person: health for elders, studies for students, business for colleagues.
- Press "Put on an envelope" to design a printable red envelope with that greeting.
Which wish for whom?
Elders and grandparents: 身體健康 (good health), 龍馬精神 (lasting vigor), 福星高照. Parents: 平安喜樂, 闔家歡樂. Children and students: 學業進步, 笑口常開. Colleagues and bosses: 步步高升, 事業有成. Business owners and clients: 生意興隆, 財源廣進, 招財進寶. Newlyweds: 早生貴子.
For a written card, the formal 恭賀新禧 or 新春快樂 works for anyone. In speech, 新年快樂 and 恭喜發財 are the safe, cheerful choices.
Traditional or Simplified characters?
Mainland China, Singapore and Malaysia use Simplified characters; Taiwan and Hong Kong use Traditional characters. Either is correct on a red envelope.
Frequently asked questions
What do you say when you receive a red envelope?
Say thank you and return a wish, such as 新年快樂 (Happy New Year) or 身體健康 (good health) to an elder.
How do you say Happy New Year in Cantonese?
Sun nin fai lok (新年快樂), or Gong hei fat choy (恭喜發財) to wish prosperity.
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