How to Say Good Job in Chinese? From Basics to Native-Like Expressions

If you’ve ever wondered how to say “good job” in Chinese, you probably found a simple answer like 很好 (hěn hǎo).

But here’s the problem: that phrase alone won’t fit every situation. Praising a child, complimenting a coworker, or cheering for a friend each calls for something a little different.

In this guide, you’ll learn a full range of natural, practical Chinese expressions with pinyin, cultural notes, and examples, so you can confidently say “good job” in any setting.

The Basic “Good Job” in Chinese

Let’s start with the two most common and easy ways.

干得好 (gàn de hǎo) — “Well done”

• Pinyin: gàn de hǎo

• Literal meaning: “Did well”

• Use: Works in most everyday situations.

Example:

You to a friend after they cooked dinner:
“干得好 (gàn de hǎo)! The noodles taste amazing.”

很好 (hěn hǎo) — “Very good”

• Pinyin: hěn hǎo

• Literal meaning: “Very good”

• Use: Simple, positive, and easy for beginners.

Example:

Teacher to a student:
“Your handwriting is 很好 (hěn hǎo) — very clear and neat.”

Saying “Good Job” For Kids: Simple & Encouraging

Kids respond best to warm and playful praise.

真棒 (zhēn bàng) — “Really great”

Example: “Your drawing is 真棒 (zhēn bàng)! So colorful.”

太好了 (tài hǎo le) — “That’s awesome”

Example: “You finished your homework! 太好了 (tài hǎo le)!”

Saying “Good Job” For Colleagues: Professional Praise

At work, compliments should feel respectful and motivating.

做得很好 (zuò de hěn hǎo) — “Well done (on the task)”

Example: “Your presentation was 做得很好 (zuò de hěn hǎo). The client was impressed.”

表现不错 (biǎoxiàn bù cuò) — “Nice performance”

Example: “You handled that meeting 表现不错 (biǎoxiàn bù cuò).”

Saying “Good Job” For Students: A Teacher’s Compliment

When guiding learners, encouraging phrases matter.

有进步 (yǒu jìnbù) — “Making progress”

Example: “Your pronunciation has 有进步 (yǒu jìnbù). Keep it up!”

学习得很好 (xuéxí de hěn hǎo) — “Studying well”

Example: “This essay is 学习得很好 (xuéxí de hěn hǎo) — clear and thoughtful.”

Good Job In a Casual Setting: Colloquial Expressions

When talking with friends, you can be more relaxed and fun.

不错啊 (bú cuò a) — “Not bad!” (tone = very positive)

Example: “You fixed the bike yourself? 不错啊 (bú cuò a)!”

厉害了 (lìhai le) — “Impressive!”

Example: “You won the game? 厉害了 (lìhai le)!”

Advanced & Nuanced Expressions Good Job in Chinese

These phrases sound natural and carry cultural depth.

好样的 (hǎo yàng de) — “That’s the spirit!”

Cultural note: Often used to cheer someone for bravery or determination.

Example: “You stood up for your classmate. 好样的 (hǎo yàng de)!”

你太棒了 (nǐ tài bàng le) — “You’re awesome”

Example: “You solved that problem so fast. 你太棒了 (nǐ tài bàng le)!”

真了不起 (zhēn liǎobuqǐ) — “Truly remarkable”

Example: “You managed the whole event by yourself. 真了不起 (zhēn liǎobuqǐ)!”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overusing “很好 (hěn hǎo)”

While correct, it can sound too plain if repeated in every situation. Native speakers often choose more vivid words.

Directly translating “good job” as 好工作 (hǎo gōngzuò)

This literally means “good work (the noun job),” and it doesn’t sound natural as a compliment.

Ways to Say “Good Job” in Chinese List

Conclusion: Flow With Praise

Now you know how to say good job in Chinese in many ways from simple basics like 干得好 (gàn de hǎo) to lively phrases like 真棒 (zhēn bàng) and more advanced ones like 真了不起 (zhēn liǎobuqǐ).

Each expression has its own flavor, and the best choice depends on who you’re speaking to.

So next time you want to encourage a child, thank a coworker, or cheer for a friend, try out one of these phrases. WuKong Education’s online lessons provide interactive ways to master authentic Chinese communication for kids.

Question for you: What’s your favorite way to give a compliment in Chinese?

Roxy | WuKong Chinese Teacher

I have been deeply involved in the K12 education field for many years, acquiring rich professional knowledge and experience. My extensive understanding of Chinese culture and education enhances my ability to integrate diverse educational methodologies. I hold a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Melbourne, which bolsters my expertise and pedagogical skills. Passionate about fostering educational environments that inspire and empower, I am committed to creating inclusive learning experiences. My aim is to positively impact students’ lives and equip them with tools for success in a globalized world.