pay respects; inquire after health
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesverb
to pay one's respects; to inquire about sb.'s health (traditional formal greeting)
formalA traditional formal greeting used toward elders or superiors, especially in historical, literary, or ceremonial contexts. Implies respect and filial piety.
He goes to pay his respects to his parents every morning.
According to old etiquette, juniors must pay their respects when meeting elders.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
She respectfully paid her respects to the old lady.
verb
to perform the "da qian" greeting (a Manchu-style greeting where one bends one knee and touches the ground with one hand)
dialectSpecific to traditional Manchu etiquette and some northern Chinese dialects (e.g., Beijing, Tianjin); now rare except in historical contexts, period dramas, or among certain ethnic communities.
When that servant saw the master, he quickly performed the "da qian" greeting to pay his respects.
In the old days, Manchu men had to perform the "da qian" greeting when meeting elders.