Wang ba, or 王八 (wāng bā), is a common Chinese profanity with a rather interesting origin story involving turtles. Though frequently used in curses and insults, many Chinese speakers today don’t fully understand the meaning behind the term. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of “turtle wang ba,” examine how it became a popular […]
Whether you’re just starting to learn Chinese or have been studying it for years, navigating the complexities of formal and informal language can be tricky. Knowing when and how to use the appropriate register is essential for communicating effectively and avoiding potentially embarrassing faux pas. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the key differences […]
Chinese is a fascinating language with a long history and rich culture behind it. As a tonal language, Mandarin Chinese relies heavily on tones to convey meaning. However, prefixes and suffixes also play an important role in building words and modifying meaning in Chinese. Unlike English, Chinese has a relatively small set of prefixes and […]
Learning new vocabulary words is essential for success when starting to learn any new language. The HSK vocabulary lists created by the HSK Authority provide a structured way for Mandarin learners to methodically build up their knowledge of commonly used words and characters. HSK 1 is the first level of the HSK exam and contains […]
Learning Chinese can seem like a daunting task. With unfamiliar characters, tones and pronunciation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed as a beginner. However, just learning 100 basic words and phrases can give you a solid foundation to start having simple conversations and grow your Chinese vocabulary. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover fundamental Chinese vocabulary […]
In Chinese, there are several useful words and phrases to express the meaning of “almost” or “nearly.” Mastering these nuanced terms can help you communicate more precisely in Chinese. Words for “Almost” in Chinese Here are some of the main words and expressions to know: 快 (kuài) – Means “almost” or “nearly.” Often used with […]
Mandarin Chinese is the most widely spoken language in the world. As China continues to grow in economic and political power, more and more people are looking to learn this fascinating language. One of the most common phrases you’ll need to know is “What are you doing?” Here’s a helpful guide on how to say […]
Shopping in China can be an exciting and culturally enriching experience. However, with a different language and culture, it can also be challenging for foreigners. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know to shop like a local in China. We’ll cover essential vocabulary words and phrases for shopping situations, tips on bargaining and […]
Learning numbers in Mandarin Chinese is one of the first steps to mastering the language. Unlike English, Mandarin has distinct words for numbers 1 through 10, making them some of the most basic vocabulary to know. With just a little practice, you’ll be counting from 一 (yī) to 十 (shí) in no time! In this […]
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 […]