礼尚往来 is an idiom meaning "courtesy demands reciprocity," reflecting the cultural importance of mutual respect and exchange.
Example: 他送我礼物,我也要回礼,礼尚往来 (Tā sòng wǒ lǐwù, wǒ yě yào huílǐ, lǐ shàng wǎng lái) - He gave me a gift, so I must reciprocate; courtesy demands reciprocity.
Fact: This principle is deeply rooted in Chinese customs and is often seen in gift-giving practices, where the value of gifts exchanged should be roughly equivalent.
Source: Mandarin Inn