Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important traditional festival in China, celebrated by millions around the world. As 2024 approaches, ushering in the Year of the Dragon, it’s the perfect time to familiarize yourself with lucky sayings and greetings that will bring good fortune and happiness to your celebrations. Here’s a guide to some popular and auspicious phrases you can use to spread joy and positive energy during this festive season.

1. 恭喜发财 (Gōngxǐ fācái)

Translation: "Congratulations and be prosperous."

Usage: This is perhaps the most common and widely recognized Chinese New Year greeting. It expresses wishes for wealth and prosperity in the coming year. It’s often said when giving red envelopes (红包 hóngbāo) filled with money, which symbolizes good fortune.

2. 新年快乐 (Xīnnián kuàilè)

Translation: "Happy New Year."

Usage: This simple and heartfelt greeting is suitable for everyone, from family members to friends and colleagues. It’s a versatile greeting that you can use throughout the New Year festivities.

3. 万事如意 (Wànshì rúyì)

Translation: "May all your wishes come true."

Usage: This phrase is perfect for wishing someone success and fulfillment in all their endeavors. It’s often used in both formal and informal settings and is especially appreciated in written New Year cards.

4. 年年有余 (Niánnián yǒuyú)

Translation: "May you have surplus year after year."

Usage: The word "余" (yú) sounds like "余" (also yú), which means "surplus" or "abundance," and it’s a play on words wishing for an abundance of good things in life, such as wealth, happiness, and health. This greeting is often used during meals and celebrations.

5. 龙年大吉 (Lóng nián dàjí)

Translation: "Great fortune in the Year of the Dragon."

Usage: As 2024 is the Year of the Dragon, this phrase is particularly relevant. It combines the symbolic power of the dragon with wishes for good luck and fortune.

6. 事事顺利 (Shìshì shùnlì)

Translation: "Everything goes smoothly."

Usage: Use this greeting to wish someone a year of smooth progress and success in all their endeavors. It’s a thoughtful way to express your hope for their seamless achievements.

7. 身体健康 (Shēntǐ jiànkāng)

Translation: "Good health."

Usage: Health is a priority for everyone, and this phrase focuses on wishing someone a healthy and well year. It’s a considerate greeting, especially for older family members and friends.

8. 诸事顺利 (Zhū shì shùnlì)

Translation: "Everything goes well."

Usage: This is a general yet heartfelt wish for success and good outcomes in all aspects of life. It’s a versatile greeting suitable for various occasions and recipients.

9. 合家欢乐 (Héjiā huānlè)

Translation: "Joy for the whole family."

Usage: This greeting is ideal for wishing happiness and joy to the entire family. It’s often used when addressing families or when visiting friends and relatives.

10. 财源广进 (Cáiyuán guǎngjìn)

Translation: "May wealth come to you in abundance."

Usage: This phrase is used to wish someone an increase in their financial resources and opportunities. It’s especially suitable for business owners or those looking to enhance their financial situation in the new year.

As you prepare for the Chinese New Year celebrations, incorporating these lucky sayings and greetings into your interactions will help spread positivity and joy. Each phrase carries a special meaning and represents the best wishes for the upcoming year. Whether you are greeting family, friends, or colleagues, these expressions of goodwill will enhance the festive spirit and bring good fortune to everyone. Wishing you a prosperous and joyous Year of the Dragon!

Happy New Year! 新年快乐 (Xīnnián kuàilè)!