The first character – 你 (nǐ) means “you.”

The second character 好 (hǎo) means “good”.

The third character 吗 (ma) is the question particle that adds to the end of sentences and phrases to change them from statements into questions.

Literal translation of 你好吗 ? (nǐ hǎo ma)? is “you good?”.

Actual meaning of 你好吗 ? (nǐ hǎo ma)? is  “How are you?”  or “Are you well?”

Please take note: This form of greeting should only be said to your family members or close friends of you. Avoid using this form of greeting for associates or strangers.

For the next lesson, I shall share with you besides, 你好吗 ? (nǐ hǎo ma)?, what are other forms of greeting you can used to greet your family members or close friends and how to reply it.

So, stay tune.

谢谢 (Xiè xie) – Thank you

再见 (Zài jiàn)  – Good bye