Next time you want to give something special to a Chinese person you know, be sure not to choose one of these bad gifts that are culturally taboo items:
1. Clocks
Clock is pronounced the same as “the end“ in Chinese. Giving someone a clock means you are awaiting their death.
2. Shoes
“Shoes” and “evil” are both pronounced “xié” in Chinese. Giving shoes can connote giving evil (except when given by relatives).
3. Umbrellas
Umbrella is pronounced the same as the Chinese term for “break apart.” Giving a friend an umbrella means that you are destined to be apart in the future.
4. Pears or plums
Pears and plums, both pronounced “li” in Chinese, are similar to the pronunciation of “separate.” Giving either of these two fruits to someone means you might separate from each other in the future.
5. Candles
Candles are used for worshiping dead people, so they make awful gifts.
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