The act of 点单 (diǎndān) in China has undergone a dramatic technological transformation, reflecting the country's rapid digitization. Traditionally, one would call out `服务员,点单! (Fúwùyuán, diǎndān!)` to get a waiter's attention. This is a key cultural difference from the West, where waiters often approach the table proactively. In many Chinese establishments, especially casual ones, customers are expected to be proactive in signaling they are ready to order. Today, however, the most common method of ordering is `扫码点单 (sǎomǎ diǎndān)`—scanning a QR code on the table with your phone. This brings up a digital menu in a mini-program (usually within WeChat or Alipay), where you select your items, and often pay directly. This system is praised for its efficiency but sometimes criticized for its impersonality. For a learner, it means that mastering the spoken phrase is still useful, but understanding the digital process is now just as critical for navigating daily life in China.
点单 (diǎndān) is a versatile and common term used in various everyday situations.