Together, 祝贺 (zhùhè) literally means “to wish and celebrate,” creating a powerful and clear verb for expressing congratulations on a happy event or achievement.
In Chinese culture, acknowledging others' successes is crucial for maintaining good social relationships (`关系 - guānxi`). Offering a `祝贺` is more than just a polite gesture; it is an expected social action that demonstrates respect, shared joy, and reinforces community bonds. Compared to the Western concept of “Congratulations,” which is often a spontaneous and individual expression, `祝贺` can carry a slightly more formal and obligatory weight. For major life events like a wedding, a promotion, or a new business opening, failing to offer congratulations to a colleague, friend, or family member can be seen as a sign of indifference or even disrespect. It affirms the person's achievement and shows that you are a supportive member of their social network. This act reinforces the collective value of celebrating success together, rather than just as an individual triumph.
`祝贺` is a versatile word used in a wide range of situations, from formal ceremonies to casual text messages.
The most common point of confusion for learners is the difference between `祝贺` and `祝福`.