Learning to say “not this time” in Mandarin Chinese can be very useful for politely declining invitations, offers, or requests. Here’s a comprehensive guide to saying “not this time” in various contexts, complete with the most common Chinese phrases, sample sentences, audio clips, and cultural tips. Why Learning This Phrase Is Helpful Being able to […]
Learning how to politely greet someone you just met is an important social skill when learning a new language. In Mandarin Chinese, there are a few different ways to politely say “Nice to meet you” when being introduced to someone for the first time. In this comprehensive guide, we will go over the most common […]
Century eggs, also known as pidan (皮蛋) in Chinese, are a famous Chinese preserved food with a history stretching back centuries. Their unusual appearance and flavor make for a unique culinary experience. While their origin is uncertain, multiple accounts suggest century eggs have existed since at least the 14th-16th centuries during the Ming Dynasty. Various […]
Learning the days of the week is one of the most fundamental parts of learning any new language. In Chinese, the days of the week provide a great opportunity to get familiar with the language, learn some vocabulary, and gain exposure to Chinese characters. Here is a comprehensive guide to the days of the week […]
The “qipao” (旗袍) is a traditional Chinese dress for women. It is a one-piece, high-necked, figure-hugging dress with distinctive Chinese features such as a mandarin collar, side slits, and frog buttons. Examples of Using “Qipao” Here are some examples of “qipao” being used in everyday Chinese conversations: Mary: 我们中文系晚宴要穿中国传统服装,我想穿旗袍。 Wǒmen zhōngwén xì wǎnyàn yào chuān […]
In Chinese, “Biao Bai” (表白) means to openly reveal one’s thoughts or feelings, to confess or declare something. It is the act of expressing, explaining or declaring oneself. Examples of Using “Biao Bai” Here are some examples of “Biao Bai” being used in real-life Chinese conversations: Mike: 我准备对Mary表白我对她的爱。Wǒ zhǔnbèi duì Mary biǎobái wǒ duì tā […]
In Chinese, “Mei Jia” (美甲) refers to nail art and beauty – specifically manicures and pedicures. It covers techniques like nail polishing, designing, extensions, and more. Examples of Using “Mei Jia” Here are some real-life examples of “Mei Jia” used in Chinese conversations: Sally: 我周末要去做美甲,给指甲上个设计。Wǒ zhōumò yào qù zuò měijiā, gěi zhǐjiā shàng ge shèjì.I’m […]
In Chinese, “Mei Da Mei Xiao” (没大没小) is an idiomatic expression that means “impolite, cheeky, impudent.” It describes someone who acts inappropriately without regard for social etiquette or hierarchy. Examples of Using “Mei Da Mei Xiao” Here are some real-life dialogues demonstrating how to use “Mei Da Mei Xiao”: Mary: 我们的新同事对老板没大没小,经常顶嘴。 Wǒmen de xīn tóngshì […]
“本来” and “原来” can both function as adjectives, indicating a situation that has remained unchanged from before. “本来” or “原来” + “的” serves as an attributive in a sentence. For example: (1) After not seeing you for several years, you still look the same as “原来” (“本来”), nothing has changed. (2) Our “本来” (“原来”) plan […]
In this article, we will briefly analyze and summarize the common usages of ‘会’ (can), ‘能’ (able to), and ‘可以’ (may/allowed to). 1. Expressing Abilities with “能” and “会” When indicating the acquisition of an ability through learning, both “能” and “会” can be used, but more often, we choose “会.” For example: He can […]