In Chinese academia and university settings, small talk functions as a social ritual to establish respect, rapport, and social harmony before formal or academic discussions. Greetings among students, faculty, and staff typically include polite and formulaic expressions such as “ni hao” (hello), “laoshi hao” (hello teacher), and inquiries about recent studies or work progress. Asking about family, health, or meals can also be common, reflecting an enduring cultural focus on relational care. Students are taught to greet elders or senior faculty first as a sign of respect, underscoring hierarchical values within academia.
Small talk in these environments tends to be formal, respectful, and concise, avoiding overly personal or controversial topics. It also reflects broader societal norms such as punctuality, orderly classroom behavior, and attentiveness in lectures. Furthermore, students learn to use indirect communication and polite phrases to maintain harmony and avoid confrontation, aligning with Confucian principles deeply embedded in educational culture.