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礼尚往来 (lǐ shàng wǎng lái) - Reciprocity

Jun 16, 2025

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

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