Meaning and Usage
"客气" (kèqi) primarily means being polite or courteous in social interactions. It often describes behavior that is respectful and considerate, especially towards guests or strangers.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used to tell someone not to be overly formal or reserved, for example, when inviting someone to make themselves comfortable: "别客气，随便坐。" It also describes polite behavior, such as "他对客人非常客气。"
Collocations and Patterns
- 别客气: a common phrase meaning "don't be polite" or "you're welcome," used to encourage informality or to respond modestly to thanks.
- 客气话: polite or formal expressions, often implying that the words are somewhat formulaic.
Nuances
Using "客气" can imply a certain social distance or formality. Sometimes, telling someone "别客气" encourages a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Avoid confusing "客气" with "礼貌," which is a broader term for politeness including manners and etiquette.