A practical, respectful reference
Chinese New Year in Singapore can be warm and joyful—and also a bit stressful if you’re unsure what to say. This page focuses on common situations and widely-used phrases.
Pronunciation note: audio uses Mandarin (普通话). Many families also speak dialects; don’t worry—enthusiasm and good manners matter most.
The Interactive Lohei (Lou Hei) Guide
Follow the sequence and mark each step as you go.
Lohei progress: 0/9 steps
You can also shout other blessings during the toss like "步步高升!" (Bù Bù Gāo Shēng - rise with each step!) or "一本万利!" (Yì Běn Wàn Lì - small investment, huge returns!). The key is to be LOUD and ENTHUSIASTIC!
What to Say When Visiting During CNY
Click any greeting to hear a Mandarin pronunciation.
Always bring oranges! Bring mandarin oranges (at least 2, preferably even numbers) when visiting. They symbolize good fortune. When leaving, the host will usually exchange them with their own oranges.
Dress in red or bright colors - avoid black and white which are associated with funerals.
Kids receiving ang bao? Teach them to say "恭喜发财!" and receive with both hands, then say "谢谢!" (xie xie - thank you). Never open the ang bao in front of the giver!
Essential CNY Phrases Cheat Sheet
Quick reference for the most important greetings you'll need
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CNY traditions in Singapore
What do you say during lohei in Singapore?
During lohei (also called lou hei or yusheng), you say specific auspicious phrases in Mandarin for each step: Start with 恭喜发财 (Gōng Xǐ Fā Cái), then phrases for each ingredient, and finish by shouting 捞起 (Lāo Qǐ) while tossing the mixture high. Each phrase represents a different blessing like prosperity, good health, or abundance. See our complete lohei guide above for all 9 steps.
How do you greet someone during Chinese New Year in Singapore?
The most common CNY greeting in Singapore is 恭喜发财 (Gōng Xǐ Fā Cái) meaning "Wishing you prosperity". Other popular greetings include 新年快乐 (Xīn Nián Kuài Lè) for "Happy New Year" and 身体健康 (Shēn Tǐ Jiàn Kāng) for "Good health". It's polite to use both hands when offering oranges or receiving ang bao. Check out our visiting guide for situation-specific greetings.
What is ang bao etiquette in Singapore?
Ang bao etiquette in Singapore: 1) Married couples give ang bao to unmarried people and children, 2) Use both hands to give and receive, 3) Say thank you but never open the ang bao in front of the giver, 4) Give even amounts (avoid amounts with 4), 5) Use new, crisp notes in red packets. Children should say 恭喜发财 (Gōng Xǐ Fā Cái) when receiving.
What should I bring when visiting during Chinese New Year?
When visiting during CNY in Singapore, bring mandarin oranges (at least 2, preferably even numbers) as they symbolize good fortune. The host will usually exchange them with their own oranges when you leave. Dress in red or bright colors and avoid black or white which are associated with funerals.
Is Mandarin pronunciation okay for CNY greetings in Singapore?
Yes, Mandarin is widely accepted for CNY greetings in Singapore. While some families speak dialects like Hokkien, Cantonese, or Teochew, Mandarin greetings are understood and appreciated. The most important thing is your sincere well-wishes and effort - don't worry about perfect pronunciation!