Company News

A Chinese Taboo: Giving a Clock as a Gift

2025-11-14

When choosing a gift for your friend, a watch or clock seems a thoughtful choice.

However, this is one of the cultural taboos in China, giving watches or clocks may cause unintentional offence.

In Chinese, 送钟 (sòng zhōng: give a clock) sounds similar to 送终(sòng zhōng: attend a funeral)

So it is inauspicious for giving a clock or a watch as a gift to someone in Chinese culture.


What to do instead?

When choosing a gift, it's always safer to opt for tea, fruit baskets, or wine instead.

Tea in particular is a good option, as China is the birthplace of tea and most Chinese people enjoy drinking it.

Remember this rule, and choose a gift that conveys only your best wishes.


X
We use cookies to offer you a better browsing experience, analyze site traffic and personalize content. By using this site, you agree to our use of cookies. Privacy Policy
Reject Accept