请慢走。

You say this when you are the host and someone else is leaving. You stand by the door or the gate. As they turn to walk away, you drop this phrase. It’s often paired with a small nod or a wave. It makes the guest feel valued and respected. It’s the verbal equivalent of a warm hug without the physical contact.

Use it at a restaurant when customers are leaving. Use it at your office when a client finishes a meeting. It’s perfect when your friends leave your apartment after dinner. Even if they are taking an Uber, you still say it. It’s about the gesture, not their actual walking speed. If they are running to catch a bus, it’s even funnier.

Don't use this if you are the one leaving. That would be like telling your host to walk slowly in their own living room. Awkward! Also, don't use it in a high-stakes emergency. If someone is actually running from a fire, don't tell them to walk slowly. Keep it for social and professional departures. It’s too polite for a heated argument.

In ancient China, roads were bumpy and dark at night. Telling someone to "walk slowly" was practical advice to avoid tripping. Over centuries, it evolved into a standard of hospitality. It reflects the Chinese value of 'màn' (slow). Doing things slowly implies care, deliberation, and safety. It’s the opposite of being cold or dismissive.

You can shorten it to 慢走 (màn zǒu) with friends. If they are driving, you might say 慢点开 (màn diǎn kāi) meaning "drive slowly." If you want to be extra fancy, use 您慢走 (nín màn zǒu). This uses the formal 'you' for elders or bosses. It adds an extra layer of 'I am a very polite person' to the interaction.