How to say "goodbye" in Chinese

再见 (zàijiàn) is a fixed expression meaning "goodbye." It is composed of 再 (zài) meaning "again" and 见 (jiàn) meaning "to see," so it literally means "see again."

Use 再见 when parting from someone, whether in person or on the phone. It is appropriate for all levels of formality. Unlike English, where "goodbye" can sound final, 再见 implies a hope to meet again, so it is used even when you might not see the person soon.