10 Greetings to Welcome the Lunar New Year

The Lunar New Year is a time of new beginnings and hopes. What better way is there to start it right than by expressing goodwill and fortune to others with these CNY greetings?

新年快乐 (xīn nián kuài lè)

You’ll never go wrong with this easy greeting — Happy New Year! 

恭喜发财 (gōng xǐ fā cái）

This is one of the most popular greetings that you’ll ever hear during the CNY season. Literally meaning “wishing you happiness and prosperity,” the phrase can also be followed by a cheeky 红包拿来 (hóngbāo ná lái) by younger greeters to ask for angpao. 

吉星高照 (jí xīng gāo zhào)

This phrase is often used to express the sentiment: “May fortune smile on you.” This is because the greeting literally translates to “the lucky star shines high,” making it perfect for wishing others a bright year ahead. 

心想事成 (xīn xiǎng shì chéng)  

For those who wish the very best for others: “May all your wishes come true.”

大吉大利 (dàjí dàlì)

Use this when expressing wishes for lots of luck and prosperity!

身体健康 (shēn tǐ jiàn kāng)

The most important kind of wealth to watch out for is one’s health. In light of all that has happened these past several months, don’t forget to wish your friends and family good healthfor this upcoming year!

事业有成 (shì yè yǒu chéng)

For all you know who are hard at work: “May your career be successful!”

生意兴隆 (shēng yì xīng lóng)

Say this to express hopes for a prosperous business! 

阖家欢乐 (hé jiā huān lè) 

Be sure to also include matters of the home with this greeting: “May there be felicity in the family!”

学习进步 (xué xí jìn bù) 

Don’t forget that students are hard at work too! Make sure to encourage them to do well by wishing for progress in their studies. 

Also curious about your fortune for the new year? Check out your zodiac’s luck and love forecast from Marites Allen here.