How Do You Buy A Clock For A Chinese Friend?
In Chinese culture, it is regarded as unlucky to give a clock as a gift. The phrase “give clock” (song4 zong1) is pronounced the same as “attend a father’s funeral”, so by giving someone a clock you are indicating you wish to attend their funeral. Therefore, it is a taboo choice for gifts. If you simply must give a clock as a gift to your Chinese friends, follow this guide. • Avoid giving a clock as a surprise gift. Make your recipients know in advance when you’re going to give them a clock. If they are hesitant in their response, choose another gift. • Adjust your gift giving tactic for those interested in clocks. For example, if your gift recipient is an antique clock collector, then avoid “giving” a clock as a “gift”. Ask if they would like to buy the clock for $1. • Give something more than just a clock. You may buy a multi-function clock, with an electronic organizer, calculator, dictionary, etc. Avoid describing it as a clock; instead, name its other functions. As with other cloc
