敬启 (jìngqǐ) is a formal expression used primarily in written Chinese to mean 'to respectfully inform' or 'to respectfully address.' It is often used at the beginning of letters or formal correspondence, indicating politeness and respect towards the recipient. This phrase is especially common in business and official communications.
HSK 7, 16 strokes, Hard
jìngqǐ(jing4qi3) T4
Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
May 27, 2026
敬启jìngqǐ(jing4qi3)
敬启 (jìngqǐ) is a formal expression used primarily in written Chinese to mean 'to respectfully inform' or 'to respectfully address.' It is often used at the beginning of letters or formal correspondence, indicating politeness and respect towards the recipient. This phrase is especially common in business and official communications.
Strokes16Frequency#—DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, showing respect in communication is fundamental, especially in business and academic settings. Using 敬启 in correspondence reflects the value placed on hierarchy and respect in relationships.
Memory Tip
Imagine sending a letter where you gently lift the envelope with respect, as if you are honoring the person receiving it. The character 敬 (jìng) resembles a person bowing slightly, while 启 (qǐ) suggests opening up a conversation, much like opening a door to welcome someone inside.
About 敬启
敬启Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 敬启
Podcast: 敬启
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 敬启
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine sending a letter where you gently lift the envelope with respect, as if you are honoring the person receiving it. The character 敬 (jìng) resembles a person bowing slightly, while 启 (qǐ) suggests opening up a conversation, much like opening a door to welcome someone inside.
Usage Notes
敬启 is used in formal contexts, so avoid using it in casual conversations. A common mistake is to use it in emails to friends or family, where a simple 你好 (nǐ hǎo) would be more appropriate. Always ensure to match the politeness level with the recipient’s status.
HSK Study Tips
At HSK 7, students should focus on understanding formal written language and the nuances of politeness in communication. 敬启 connects with other formal expressions like 您好 (nín hǎo) and 敬请 (jìngqǐng), enhancing your ability to write respectfully in Chinese.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, showing respect in communication is fundamental, especially in business and academic settings. Using 敬启 in correspondence reflects the value placed on hierarchy and respect in relationships.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 敬启 with informal greetings like 你好 (nǐ hǎo), which is inappropriate in formal letters. Instead, always choose 敬启 for formal contexts.
AI-enhanced 2026-05-27
Pronunciation of 敬启
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 敬启 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 敬启 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Cultural Notes for 敬启
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, showing respect in communication is fundamental, especially in business and academic settings. Using 敬启 in correspondence reflects the value placed on hierarchy and respect in relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions about 敬启
You should use 敬启 at the beginning of formal letters or emails, especially when addressing superiors or clients.
No, 敬启 is too formal for casual interactions; it's best reserved for formal writing.
Yes, other formal phrases include 敬请 (jìngqǐng) and 敬上 (jìngshàng), which also convey respect.
