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After having been in China for half a year, Mr. Green was invited to attend the Chinese wedding of some Chinese friends. During the wedding, he had an interesting conversation with the groom.

                  Xīnniáng zhēnde hăo piàoliang a!
Mr. Green:    新娘      真的     好     漂亮     啊！    
                  Your bride is so beautiful!

                  Năli năli.
     Groom: 哪里哪里。    
                  Thanks. You're too kind.

                  Xīnniáng de méimao, yănjing, bízi, zuǐ, dōu hĕn piàoliang a!
Mr. Green:    新娘    的    眉毛、   眼睛、鼻子、嘴，都   很    漂亮      啊！
                    
                  Well, the bride’s brows, eyes, nose, and lips are all beautiful!

You've probably figured out that Mr. Green has misunderstood the phrase “哪里哪里 (Năli năli),” which literally means “Where? Where?.” Actually, “哪里哪里 (Năli năli)” is a humble remark used to show modesty when Chinese people receive a compliment. Figuratively speaking, it means “I don't deserve your compliments.” or “You're too kind.”

Example:

          Nǐ nà shí zhēnshì tài yŏnggăn le.
刘梅:  你  那  时    真是    太   勇敢    了。    
          You were so brave then.

          Năli năli, zhè suàn bù liăo shénme.
李明:  哪里哪里，这 算    不  了    什么。    
          Aw shucks, it was nothing.