How to Say ‘Not at all.’ in Traditional Chinese
哪裡的話
nǎ lǐ de huà
[nah-lee duh hwah]
🇹🇼 In Taiwan: [哪裡的話] is a polite way to wave off thanks or modesty, like "not at all" or "please don't say that." It's especially common from older adults and sounds warm, a little traditional, and very appropriate with in-laws.
Phrase Breakdown
哪裡
nǎ lǐ
[nah-lee]
not at all; don’t mention it
哪裡 is often used modestly in replies, like saying 'not at all' or 'you’re too polite.' In 哪裡的話, it sounds warmer and more conversational.
你這麼客氣，哪裡的話，快進來坐。
You’re so polite—don’t mention it, come in and have a seat.
的話
de huà
[duh hwah]
what you said; such words
的話 literally relates to 'words said.' In 哪裡的話, the full phrase politely dismisses praise or apology.
說什麼打擾，哪裡的話，我們很歡迎你。
Why say you’re bothering us? Not at all—we’re very happy to welcome you.
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