别客气
bié kèqi
Don't be so polite · trad. 別客氣
别客气 (Bié kèqi) is a common phrase meaning "don't be so polite" or "you're welcome." It is frequently used by hosts to encourage guests to feel at home and comfortable, implying "make yourself at home."
What does 别客气 (bié kèqi) mean?
别客气 (bié kèqi) means “don't be so polite” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “don't polite.”
When to use it
Neutral and friendly. It's a common reply to "thank you" (谢谢) or when offering something. Hosts frequently use it to encourage guests to feel comfortable and help themselves.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “bee-EH kuh-chee.” The first syllable has a falling tone, and the second is a light, neutral tone.
Other ways to say it
- 不客气bù kèqiyou're welcome (common reply to thanks)
- 不用谢bù yòng xièno need to thank
- 随便坐suíbiàn zuòsit wherever you like (often used by hosts)
Examples
谢谢你帮我。别客气！
xièxie nǐ bāng wǒ. Bié kèqi!
Thank you for helping me. Don't be so polite!
来我家，别客气，就像在自己家一样。
Lái wǒ jiā, bié kèqi, jiù xiàng zài zìjǐ jiā yīyàng.
Come to my home, make yourself at home, just like your own house.
请随便吃，别客气。
Qǐng suíbiàn chī, bié kèqi.
Please eat whatever you like, don't be shy.
Pro tip: While often a reply to "thank you," 别客气 also strongly conveys "make yourself at home" when you are a host, encouraging guests to relax and be informal.
Related phrases
让一下 · Excuse me (passing through)拜托了 · Please — i'm counting on you帮我一下 · Give me a hand
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