Buying Flowers: Phrases for Florist Shops
Buying flowers in China can be a delightful experience, whether you're purchasing them for a special occasion or just to brighten your home. When visiting a florist shop, clear and polite communication is essential to ensure you get exactly what you want. Understanding the appropriate phrases and customs can help you navigate the process smoothly. Here are some essential Mandarin phrases for various scenarios at a florist shop.
Selecting Flowers
When selecting flowers, it’s important to be specific about the type, color, and quantity you want. In China, clear and respectful communication helps the florist understand your preferences.
- I would like to buy some roses.
我想买一些玫瑰花。
Wǒ xiǎng mǎi yīxiē méiguīhuā. - Do you have any lilies?
你们有百合花吗？
Nǐmen yǒu bǎihéhuā ma? - Can I get a bouquet of mixed flowers?
我可以要一束混合花吗？
Wǒ kěyǐ yào yī shù hùnhéhuā ma?
Asking About Flower Meanings
In China, flowers often have symbolic meanings. Asking about the meanings can help you choose the right flowers for the occasion.
- What does this flower symbolize?
这朵花代表什么？
Zhè duǒ huā dàibiǎo shénme? - Are these flowers suitable for a wedding?
这些花适合婚礼吗？
Zhèxiē huā shìhé hūnlǐ ma? - Which flowers are good for expressing gratitude?
哪些花适合表达感激？
Nǎxiē huā shìhé biǎodá gǎnjī?
Discussing Flower Arrangements
Discussing the arrangement ensures you get a beautifully designed bouquet or floral display. Florists in China appreciate detailed descriptions to create the perfect arrangement.
- Can you make a small arrangement for my office?
你能做一个适合办公室的小花艺设计吗？
Nǐ néng zuò yīgè shìhé bàngōngshì de xiǎo huāyì shèjì ma? - I’d like a large centerpiece for a dinner party.
我想要一个大型的餐桌中心花艺。
Wǒ xiǎng yào yīgè dàxíng de cānzhuō zhōngxīn huāyì. - Please include some green foliage.
请加一些绿色的叶子。
Qǐng jiā yīxiē lǜsè de yèzi.
Making a Special Request
If you have any special requests, such as specific flowers or custom arrangements, it’s important to communicate them clearly. Florists in China are usually accommodating if you provide detailed instructions.
- Can you deliver these flowers to my home?
你们能把这些花送到我家吗？
Nǐmen néng bǎ zhèxiē huā sòng dào wǒ jiā ma? - I need these flowers for a birthday party.
我需要这些花用于生日派对。
Wǒ xūyào zhèxiē huā yòng yú shēngrì pàiduì. - Can you create a bouquet with a romantic theme?
你能做一个浪漫主题的花束吗？
Nǐ néng zuò yīgè làngmàn zhǔtí de huāshù ma?
Providing Feedback
Giving feedback helps the florist understand your preferences for future visits. In China, polite and constructive feedback is appreciated.
- The arrangement is beautiful. Thank you!
这个花艺设计很漂亮。谢谢！
Zhège huāyì shèjì hěn piàoliang. Xièxiè! - Could you use less wrapping paper next time?
下次可以少用一些包装纸吗？
Xiàcì kěyǐ shǎo yòng yīxiē bāozhuāng zhǐ ma? - I loved the flowers you chose.
我很喜欢你选的花。
Wǒ hěn xǐhuān nǐ xuǎn de huā.