Culture & Etiquette
Names and how to address people
✅ Updated May 2026
Chinese names put the family name first and given name second (in Li Wei, Li is the surname). Address people by surname plus title — Manager Wang (王经理), Teacher Li (李老师), or Mr/Ms surname. Using someone's full name or given name alone is reserved for close friends. Many professionals also adopt an English first name for foreigners to use.
Have a specific question?
Instant answer, any time
Prefer a real local's take?
A real person answers from experience — a reply can take a little time.