Expert: Shannon G. - 4/3/2007

Question
Hi!

I am starting research for a man named Dr. Luo. My question is, how do I pronounce his last name? Sorry for my ignorance, I don't know very much about how to pronounce chinese names.

I realize I should just ask him, but I'm slightly embaressed about my ignorance, and there is a possiblity he may be offended.

Is it Loo-Oh, Loo, or Low?

Thank you so much for your time,
Matt

Answer
Hey Matt!
Thanks for posting this question and being my first asker.
Luo is pronounced as "l-w-o": "w" here is like "w" in "wait" and "o" is like "au" in "auction".
Actually I don't think Dr. Luo would be offended if you ask him about the pronunciation. Think about it this way, if a foreigner, i.e. a Chinese who didn't know how to speak English, asked you how to say your name, would you be willing to tell him or get offended? At least I would be willing to tell him how to pronounce my name.
Hope this will help you.
Best wishes and have a good time with Dr. Luo.
Shannon