圣诞节
Shèngdànjié
Christmas · trad. 聖誕節
圣诞节 (Shèngdànjié) is Christmas. While not a public holiday in mainland China, it is widely celebrated by shops, malls, and young people. In Hong Kong and Macau, it is a public holiday.
What does 圣诞节 (Shèngdànjié) mean?
圣诞节 (Shèngdànjié) means “christmas” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “holy birth festival.”
When to use it
Neutral. The common greeting for Christmas is 圣诞快乐. In mainland China, it's more of a commercial and social event, whereas in Hong Kong and Macau, it's a recognized public holiday.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “SHUNG-dahn-jyeh.” The first syllable has a falling tone, the second a falling tone, and the third a rising tone.
Other ways to say it
- 圣诞快乐shèngdàn kuàilèMerry Christmas
- 圣诞老人shèngdàn lǎorénSanta Claus
- 圣诞树shèngdànshùChristmas tree
Examples
圣诞节快到了，商场里很热闹。
shèngdànjié kuài dào le, shāngchǎng lǐ hěn rènào.
Christmas is coming soon, the mall is very lively.
祝你圣诞快乐！
zhù nǐ shèngdàn kuàilè!
Merry Christmas to you!
你圣诞节有什么计划？
nǐ shèngdànjié yǒu shénme jìhuà?
What are your plans for Christmas?
Pro tip: Remember that 圣诞节 is not a public holiday in mainland China, but it's still a popular time for celebrations and shopping. The standard greeting is 圣诞快乐.
Related phrases
圣诞快乐 · Merry christmas平安夜 · Christmas eve圣诞老人 · Santa claus
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