Introduction 沒有

MEI YOU (没有) Not Have

It is always said; and it’s usually true that MEI YOU is the first phrase a visitor learns in China. So often is MEI YOU heard, it may be the only Chinese phrase many visitors remember. But MEl YOU can mean more than “Not Have” .. ‘.

THE MAN WITH THE KEY IS NOT HERE — A KEY TO WHAT THEY REALLY MEAN IN CHINA is a Chinese/English dictionary with a difference. Chinese words and phrases most frequently encountered by both business and holiday visitors are here, complete with literal English and, written Chinese translations. (All Chinese romanizations are in the PIN YIN system). But this is also a handbook providing a sketchmap (what is said) compared to the territory (actual meaning) behind a Great Wall of many dimensions.

It is not possible to know which meanings in the following chapters apply to the individual situations in China. It is likely that in any given chapter and situation, one or more or “all of the above” as questionnaires offer participants, come into the equation.

Learning the possibilities of what is MEANT rather than what is SAID in China is as important to the visitor struggling to confirm travel reservations as to one concluding a multi-million dollar contract. A look behind the language Wall can also be illuminating, and enrich an experience even if it does not necessarily obtain the train seat or seal the business deal.

The co-authors and publishers take no responsibility for any eventuality that may occur as a result of the use of this book.