Last week we learned a few ways to say "thank you", which will score you some brownie points for both politeness and your Chinese skills! So now we answer the burning question you have had ever since—how do you say you're welcome in Chinese?
1. 不客气
Bù kèqì
Don't be polite
Older generations consider this the most gracious response to "thank you". It is also the most neutral and appropriate for all situations, so you may wish to err on the side of caution.You may also hear similar variations, such as 不用客气 bùyòng kèqì and 别客气 bié kèqì.
You: Thank you for helping me clean up!
Ayi: 哎呀，不客气！
2. 不用谢
Bùyòng xiè
No need for thanks
This a casual way to reply to "thank you".Despite literally saying right in the phrase "there is no need to thank me", we recommend you still always say "thank you." Our mommas raised us right!
You: Excuse me, where is the restroom?
Waiter: Right here.
You: Thank you!
Waiter: 不用谢。
3. 没事儿
Méi shìer
No problem
At the risk of sounding terse and short, we recommend saving this one for friends or people you are close with.You will also hear this phrase used in many contexts besides "you're welcome", so keep an ear out.
You: Thanks for giving me a ride!
Friend: 没事儿。
4. 应该的
Yīnggāi de
It's my duty
This is more situationally specific and is generally used when you are thanking someone for fulfilling an obligation.
Boss: Thank you for submitting those forms so quickly.
You: 应该的。
Though you will hear it in the Mainland, this response is popular in Taiwan. Supposedly, 不会 originates from the Taiwanese Min dialect.
Coworker: Thanks for holding the door.
You: 不会。