Culture Insider: Taboos in gift-giving

2. No umbrellas or pears for lovers

[Photo/Ecns.cn]

Umbrella pronounced as "San" and pear pronounced as "Li" in Chinese, both mean "separation". So it's inappropriate to give lovers umbrellas and pears, because it will seem like you want them to be separated. Also, don't give your friends umbrellas as a gift; it is not a good symbol of friendship. Of course, the timely act of giving someone an umbrella on a rainy day can be an exception.