您

• Pinyin: nín
• Hanzi breakdown: 您 = 你 (you) + 心 (heart), meaning respectful 'you'

Meaning

You (formal/respectful). The polite form of 你, used to show respect.

Used when addressing elders, teachers, superiors, customers, or anyone deserving of respect. Very important in Chinese culture where showing appropriate deference through language is valued. The character adds 心 (heart) below 你, symbolising heartfelt respect.

Examples

1. 您好！ Hello! (formal)
2. 请问您贵姓？ May I ask your surname?
3. 您请坐。 Please have a seat.

Usage Guide

Context: polite, service

Tone: respectful

Do Say

• 老师，您好！(Hello, teacher!)
• 请问您需要什么？(May I ask what you need?)

Don't Say

• 对同龄朋友说您。(Don't use 您 with close friends of the same age — it creates unnecessary distance; 你 is appropriate)

Origin & History

Composed of 你 (you) and 心 (heart), literally 'you with heart' — addressing someone with sincere respect.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal