shēntǐ jiànkāng: 身体健康 - Good Health, To Be Healthy

• Keywords: 身体健康, shenti jiankang, shen ti jian kang, Chinese for good health, Chinese well wishes, 祝你身体健康, Chinese health blessing, how to say be healthy in Chinese, physical health in Chinese.
• Summary: “身体健康 (shēntǐ jiànkāng)” is a fundamental Chinese term meaning “good physical health.” More than just a phrase, it's one of the most common and sincere blessings you can offer someone in Chinese culture, especially elders. Understanding “身体健康” is key to grasping Chinese social etiquette, as it reflects the deep cultural value placed on well-being, longevity, and family care. This page will break down its meaning, cultural importance, and practical use in everyday conversation.

• Pinyin (with tone marks): shēntǐ jiànkāng
• Part of Speech: Noun Phrase (“good physical health”) / Adjective Phrase (“to be physically healthy”)
• HSK Level: HSK 3
• Concise Definition: Good physical health; to be physically healthy.
• In a Nutshell: “身体健康” is the quintessential Chinese wish for a person's well-being. It's not a casual “hope you're well” but a profound and heartfelt blessing that prioritizes physical health above almost all else. It's the standard wish for parents and grandparents and a common toast at banquets, embodying the belief that a sound body is the foundation for a happy life.

• 身 (shēn): Body, person, self. The character is a simplified pictogram of a person, originally showing a prominent torso or pregnant belly, emphasizing the physical self.
• 体 (tǐ): Body, form, substance. This character is composed of the “person” radical (亻) and 本 (běn), which means “root” or “origin.” Together, they signify a person's physical foundation or form.
• 健 (jiàn): Healthy, strong, robust. It combines the “person” radical (亻) with 建 (jiàn), which means “to build.” This powerfully suggests a person who is “well-built” and strong.
• 康 (kāng): Healthy, peaceful, abundant. This character evokes a sense of holistic well-being and tranquility.

When combined, `身体 (shēntǐ)` literally means “body,” and `健康 (jiànkāng)` means “health/healthy.” Together, `身体健康 (shēntǐ jiànkāng)` specifically refers to physical health, forming a complete and formal expression of well-being.

In Chinese culture, `身体健康` is not just a pleasantry; it's a cornerstone of social interaction and values.

• A Foundational Blessing: While Western cultures might prioritize happiness or success, traditional Chinese thought places immense value on health and longevity. Good health is seen as the prerequisite for everything else: enjoying wealth, caring for family, and fulfilling one's duties. Wishing someone `身体健康` is therefore one of the most sincere and respectful things you can say.
• Comparison to “Get well soon”: In the West, we typically wish someone health only when they are sick (“Get well soon”). In contrast, `身体健康` is a proactive wish for someone to remain healthy. It's used for healthy people on celebratory occasions like birthdays, holidays (especially Chinese New Year), or simply when showing respect.
• Respect for Elders: This phrase is almost mandatory when greeting or toasting elders. It shows filial piety and a deep concern for their well-being, acknowledging their importance within the family structure. The famous New Year's greeting for elders is `祝您身体健康，万事如意` (Zhù nín shēntǐ jiànkāng, wànshì rúyì) - “Wishing you good health and that all your wishes come true.”

`身体健康` is used frequently across various social settings.

• Formal Blessings and Toasts: This is its most common use. At a banquet, you might raise your glass to an elder or a superior and say `祝您身体健康！` (Zhù nín shēntǐ jiànkāng!). The use of `您 (nín)` is key here to show respect.
• Holiday Greetings: It's a staple of Chinese New Year cards, messages, and verbal greetings.
• Inquiring About Family: It's common to ask a friend, “你父母身体健康吗？” (Nǐ fùmǔ shēntǐ jiànkāng ma?) - “Are your parents in good health?” This is a polite and caring way to inquire.
• Personal Goals: People might state that their goal is to maintain good health: “我现在最大的愿望就是家人身体健康。” (Wǒ xiànzài zuìdà de yuànwàng jiùshì jiārén shēntǐ jiànkāng.) - “My biggest wish right now is for my family to be healthy.”

• Example 1:
  • 奶奶，祝您身体健康，长命百岁！
  • Pinyin: Nǎinai, zhù nín shēntǐ jiànkāng, chángmìng bǎisuì!