How to Say “Happy New Year” in Chinese: Translation and Tips

If you’re looking to translate “Happy New Year” from Chinese, the most common phrase you’ll see is “新年快乐” (Xīnnián kuàilè). Literally, it means “new year happy,” but it’s the go-to way for Chinese speakers to wish each other well when the calendar flips to January 1st—or during the Lunar New Year period.

Why This Phrase Appears

• Common Greeting: You’ll find “新年快乐” on social media posts, festive banners, and in daily conversations as people greet each other at the start of a new year.
• Two New Year Celebrations: In Chinese communities, there’s both January 1st and the Lunar New Year (often in January/February). “新年快乐” is relevant for both occasions.

How to Pronounce “新年快乐”

• 新 (xīn): sounds like “shin”
• 年 (nián): sounds like “nyen”
• 快 (kuài): sounds like “kwai” (rhymes with “eye”)
• 乐 (lè): sounds like “luh”

Put it together: “Xīnnián kuàilè”.

When & How to Use It

• Social Media Posts: If you see “新年快乐” on WeChat, Weibo, or other Chinese platforms, just understand it’s “Happy New Year!”
• Replying: A simple response is to say it back: “新年快乐！” or type it out if you’re online.
• Variations: Sometimes people say “过年好” (Guònián hǎo), which also means “Happy New Year” (more common during the Lunar New Year).

Quick Tips for Non-Chinese Speakers

• Copy & Paste: If you’re unsure about typing Chinese characters, you can copy “新年快乐” directly into your messages.
• Add Emojis: Many Chinese users pair it with festive emojis like firecrackers () or red envelopes ().
• Be Confident: Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, most Chinese speakers appreciate the effort!