Comment by YeGoblynQueenne
5 years ago
>> "你吃了吗?"
I was told by a Chinese colleague that this is a very informal greeting, strictly between friends - pals, rather.
I didn't ask, at the time, because I was more preoccupied with trying to pronounce it (my colleague was very helpful). But I would like to know the context behind this. I mean, what is it in asking about having eaten that signifies a greeting?
In Greek, for instance, we say "yia sou" ("γειά σου"), for "hello". It means, basically, "have health". To me (well of course it would) it makes sense to wish something good as a greeting, I think "shalom" for example, means "peace", etc. I don't get the "have you eaten" greeting and I'm very very curious. All help in this matter is deeply appreciated :)
> In Greek, for instance, we say "yia sou" ("γειά σου"), for "hello". It means, basically, "have health". (...) I don't get the "have you eaten" greeting and I'm very very curious.
If you eat well, you'll grow healthy, if you eat poorly, you'll grow unhealthy. They stem from the same principles :-)
Thanks. But, it's asked as a question, no? So, is it like an expression of concern, as if I asked "are you healthy"?
> what is it in asking about having eaten that signifies a greeting?
My understanding is that it's about extending, or at least putting on an air of, hospitality and friendliness.