How to Buy a Clock for a Chinese Friend
The Chinese consider buying and receiving clocks as gifts as inappropriate. Because the spoken name for a clock resembles phrases related to death, it is implied that by giving a clock, you wish to attend the recipient's funeral. Follow these tips to buy a clock for a Chinese friend without offending her.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Make your intentions known. Some Chinese people can consider surprise gifts rude or bad luck. Discuss his need for a clock and your interest in getting him one. Drop the offer if he is against the idea. If he's receptive to receiving a clock, find ways to deliver the clock without causing offense.
-
2
Find other devices that measure time. Watches and multi-functional devices that include clocks are not taboo to give and receive in Chinese culture. However, avoid giving devices designed to be hung on walls or set on tables, as these could be technically considered "clocks."
-
-
3
Barter or cheaply sell a clock to your Chinese friend if you absolutely have to give her one. Bartering or selling the clock to her doesn't count as gift-giving. However, make sure that the clock is oval, hexagonal or octagonal in its shape--the Chinese consider these clock shapes the best.
-
4
Wrap your present in colors other than blue, black and white. Avoid writing the card in red ink. Wrapping the gift in these colors and using red ink also symbolize death to the Chinese.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you intend to buy your Chinese friend several gifts, always buy an even number of gifts (except for four). The number four and odd numbers are considered back luck in Chinese culture.
