Over 30O Essential Mandarin Phrases: Beginners and Travellers Guide to Learning Mandarin

Q: How difficult is it to learn Mandarin phrases for beginners?

Learning basic Mandarin phrases is quite manageable for beginners . While Mandarin has tones that affect meaning, essential travel and conversation phrases can be mastered with consistent practice. Start with common greetings, polite expressions, and practical phrases for shopping or dining. Focus on pronunciation and don't worry about perfect tones initially—most native speakers will understand your meaning from context.

Q: What are the most important Mandarin phrases for travellers?

The most essential phrases include greetings, asking for directions, ordering food, and emergency expressions . Key phrases like "你好" (hello), "谢谢" (thank you), "请问" (excuse me), and "多少钱?" (how much?) are invaluable. Also learn transportation phrases such as asking for the nearest station, booking tickets, and understanding time expressions. These will significantly enhance your travel experience in Chinese-speaking regions [1] .

Q: Do I need to learn Chinese characters to use these phrases?

While learning characters is beneficial, you can start with pinyin (romanised pronunciation) and audio guides. Many beginners successfully communicate using spoken Mandarin without reading Chinese characters initially. However, recognising basic characters for signs, menus, and directions will greatly enhance your independence when travelling. Our guide includes both character and pinyin forms for comprehensive learning.

Q: How are tones important in Mandarin phrases?

Mandarin has four main tones plus a neutral tone , and these can change word meanings entirely. However, don't let tones intimidate you— context often clarifies meaning even with imperfect pronunciation. Practice with audio resources and native speakers when possible. Most Chinese speakers are patient and appreciative when foreigners attempt their language, even with tone mistakes.

Q: What are the most essential Mandarin phrases for first-time visitors to China?

For first-time visitors, focus on these survival phrases : "你好" (Nǐ hǎo) - Hello "谢谢" (Xièxiè) - Thank you "厕所在哪里？" (Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?) - Where is the bathroom? "这个多少钱？" (Zhège duōshao qián?) - How much is this? "我不会说中文" (Wǒ bù huì shuō zhōngwén) - I don't speak Chinese These phrases will help you navigate basic interactions with confidence.

Q: How do I ask questions properly in Mandarin Chinese?

Mandarin question formation is quite systematic. Here are the main patterns: 什么 (shénme) - "What" - versatile for objects, names, actions 哪里 (nǎlǐ) - "Where" - for locations 什么时候 (shénme shíhòu) - "When" - for timing Add 吗 (ma) at the end for yes/no questions Example: "你是老师吗？" (Nǐ shì lǎoshī ma?) - Are you a teacher?

Q: What should I know about introducing myself in Mandarin?

Personal introductions follow a common pattern in Mandarin: "我叫..." (Wǒ jiào...) - My name is... "我是..." (Wǒ shì...) - I am... (nationality/profession) "我来自..." (Wǒ láizì...) - I come from... "很高兴见到你" (Hěn gāoxìng jiàn dào nǐ) - Nice to meet you Chinese people appreciate when foreigners make an effort to introduce themselves properly in Mandarin.

Q: How can I politely ask someone to repeat what they said in Chinese?

When you don't understand, these phrases will help: "请你再说一遍" (Qǐng nǐ zài shuō yī biàn) - Please say it again "你能说慢一点吗？" (Nǐ néng shuō màn yīdiǎn ma?) - Can you speak slower? "我听不懂" (Wǒ tīng bù dǒng) - I don't understand "不好意思" (Bù hǎoyìsi) - Excuse me/Sorry Don't be shy about asking for clarification - most people are happy to help learners.

Q: What are common mistakes foreigners make with Mandarin phrases?

Common mistakes include: Tone confusion - Practice the four tones consistently Word order errors - Chinese follows Subject-Verb-Object like English Overuse of "我" (wǒ) - Chinese often omits the subject when it's clear Mixing up measure words - Different objects use different counters Being too formal - Casual conversation doesn't always need "请" (please) Focus on natural communication rather than perfect grammar initially.

Q: Can these phrases help me in Taiwan and Hong Kong as well?

Yes, most phrases work across Chinese-speaking regions , though there are some differences. Taiwan uses Traditional Chinese characters and may have slightly different expressions , while Hong Kong primarily speaks Cantonese alongside English. Mandarin is widely understood in Taiwan and increasingly in Hong Kong, especially in tourist areas. The phrases in our guide are standard Mandarin suitable for mainland China and Taiwan [2] .

Are you planning to visit China or interested in learning one of the world's most widely spoken languages?

In this comprehensive guide, we've compiled over 300 essential Mandarin phrases organised into practical categories such as greetings and pleasantries for first meetings, conversation starters and social interactions, and practical phrases for navigation and travel. We've also included numbers, quantities, time expressions, and date formats in Mandarin.

Our collection features commonly used phrases to help you communicate effectively in Mandarin-speaking environments. If you need to translate additional phrases or sentences, you can use our Chinese typing and translation tool, which converts English text into Chinese characters with proper pronunciation guides.

Greetings and Pleasantries in Mandarin

In Chinese culture, proper greetings reflect respect and harmony (和谐 héxié). Traditional Confucian values emphasize politeness and showing face (面子 miànzi). Mandarin greetings often include inquiries about well-being, reflecting the collectivist culture where relationships and social bonds are highly valued.

Hello.
你好
(Nǐ hǎo)
Hi.
嗨
(Hāi)
Thank you.
谢谢
(Xiè xiè)
Thank you very much.
非常感谢
(Fēi cháng gǎn xiè)
You are welcome.
不客气
(Bù kè qì)
Yes. / No.
是 / 不是
(Shì / Bù shì)
Please.
请
(Qǐng)
Excuse me. / Sorry.
对不起
(Duì bu qǐ)
Don't worry.
别担心
(Bié dān xīn)
Good morning.
早上好
(Zǎo shàng hǎo)
Good afternoon.
下午好
(Xià wǔ hǎo)
Good evening.
晚上好
(Wǎn shàng hǎo)
Good night.
晚安
(Wǎn ān)
See you later.
回头见
(Huí tóu jiàn)
Goodbye.
再见
(Zài jiàn)
Bye.
拜拜
(Bài bài)
How are you?
你好吗？
(Nǐ hǎo ma?)
I am fine. And you?
我很好。你呢？
(Wǒ hěn hǎo. Nǐ ne?)
What is your name?
你叫什么名字？
(Nǐ jiào shén me míng zi?)
My name is Steve.
我叫史蒂夫。
(Wǒ jiào Steve.)
I am pleased to meet you.
很高兴认识你。
(Hěn gāo xìng rèn shi nǐ.)
Bless you! (when sneezing)
祝你健康！
(Zhù nǐ jiàn kāng!)
Cheers!
干杯！
(Gān bēi!)
Good luck!
祝你好运！
(Zhù nǐ hǎo yùn!)
Happy birthday!
生日快乐！
(Shēng rì kuài lè!)
Congratulations!
恭喜！
(Gōng xǐ!)

Starting Conversation Between People

Chinese conversations often begin with inquiries about well-being, family, or work, reflecting the importance of relationships (关系 guānxì) in Chinese culture. Personal questions about age, occupation, and family are common and show genuine interest. Modesty (谦逊 qiānxùn) is valued when discussing achievements or personal success.

Do you live here?
你住在这里吗？
(Nǐ zhù zài zhè lǐ ma?)
Where are you going?
你去哪里？
(Nǐ qù nǎ lǐ?)
What are you doing?
你在做什么？
(Nǐ zài zuò shén me?)
Today is a nice day, isn't it?
今天天气很好，对吗？
(Jīn tiān tiān qì hěn hǎo, duì ma?)
Where are you from?
你从哪里来？
(Nǐ cóng nǎ lǐ lái?)
I am from India.
我从印度来。
(Wǒ cóng Yìn dù lái.)
Do you like it here?
你喜欢这里吗？
(Nǐ xǐ huān zhè lǐ ma?)
Yes, I like it here.
是的，我喜欢这里。
(Shì de, wǒ xǐ huān zhè lǐ.)
How long are you here for?
你要在这里待多久？
(Nǐ yào zài zhè lǐ dāi duō jiǔ?)
I am here for three days / weeks.
我要在这里待三天/周。
(Wǒ yào zài zhè lǐ dāi sān tiān/zhōu.)
How old are you?
你多大了？
(Nǐ duō dà le?)
I am 26 years old.
我二十六岁。
(Wǒ èr shí liù suì.)
What is your occupation?
你的职业是什么？
(Nǐ de zhí yè shì shén me?)
I am a Software Engineer.
我是软件工程师。
(Wǒ shì ruǎn jiàn gōng chéng shī.)
I am a student.
我是学生。
(Wǒ shì xué shēng.)
I am studying Medical Science.
我在学医学。
(Wǒ zài xué yī xué.)
I am retired.
我退休了。
(Wǒ tuì xiū le.)
What is your email / phone number / address
你的电邮/电话号码/地址是什么？
(Nǐ de diàn yóu/diàn huà hào mǎ/dì zhǐ shì shén me?)
Here is my email / phone number / address.
这是我的电邮/电话号码/地址。
(Zhè shì wǒ de diàn yóu/diàn huà hào mǎ/dì zhǐ.)
Are you on Facebook or Twitter?
你有Facebook或Twitter吗？
(Nǐ yǒu Facebook huò Twitter ma?)
Keep in touch!
保持联系！
(Bǎo chí lián xì!)
It has been great meeting you.
很高兴认识你。
(Hěn gāo xìng rèn shi nǐ.)

Personal Pronouns in Mandarin

Chinese pronouns reflect social hierarchy and respect levels. The formal "您" (nín) shows respect to elders or superiors, while "你" (nǐ) is informal. Gender-specific third-person pronouns (他/她/它) share the same pronunciation but different characters, showing the importance of written Chinese. Understanding pronouns helps navigate Chinese social etiquette.

1. Personal Pronouns

Personal pronouns refer to the subject or object of a sentence. Chinese personal pronouns change based on formality level and social relationships. The respectful form "您" (nín) is essential when addressing elders, teachers, or business contacts in Chinese culture.

I
我
(wǒ)
You (singular)
你
(nǐ)
You (plural)
你们
(nǐ men)
He
他
(tā)
She
她
(tā)
It
它
(tā)
We
我们
(wǒ men)
They
他们/她们/它们
(tā men)

2. Possessive Pronouns

Possessive pronouns indicate ownership in Chinese by adding 的 (de) after personal pronouns. Unlike English, Chinese possessive pronouns don't change form based on gender or number. The particle 的 (de) is sometimes omitted with close family relationships (我妈 wǒ mā - my mother).

My / Mine
我的
(wǒ de)
Your / Yours (singular)
你的
(nǐ de)
His / Her / Its / Your (singular)
他的/她的/它的
(tā de)
Our / Ours
我们的
(wǒ men de)
Your / Yours (plural)
你们的
(nǐ men de)
Their / Theirs
他们的/她们的/它们的
(tā men de)

3. Demonstrative Pronouns

Demonstrative pronouns emphasize a specific person or a thing. Chinese demonstratives indicate distance and formality. "这" (zhè) refers to objects near the speaker, while "那" (nà) indicates distance. These are essential for shopping, giving directions, and daily communication in Chinese-speaking regions.

This
这
(zhè)
That
那
(nà)
These
这些
(zhè xiē)

Transportation

China has one of the world's most extensive transportation networks. High-speed rail (高速铁路 gāosù tiělù) connects major cities efficiently. Public transport in cities like Beijing includes subways, buses, and bike-sharing. Understanding transportation phrases is essential for navigating China's vast geography and modern infrastructure.

Getting Around

Chinese cities offer comprehensive public transportation. Navigation apps like Baidu Maps are essential. Traffic can be intense in major cities. Understanding directional phrases helps when asking locals for help, as many Chinese people are willing to assist tourists despite language barriers.

How do I get to the Zoo?
我怎么去动物园？
(Wǒ zěn me qù dòng wù yuán?)
Can we get there by public transport?
我们可以坐公共交通去吗？
(Wǒ men kě yǐ zuò gōng gòng jiāo tōng qù ma?)
What time does the bus / train / plane leave?
公交车/火车/飞机几点开？
(Gōng jiāo chē/huǒ chē/fēi jī jǐ diǎn kāi?)
What time does it arrive?
几点到？
(Jǐ diǎn dào?)
How long will it be delayed?
会延误多长时间？
(Huì yán wù duō cháng shí jiān?)
Is this seat free?
这个座位空着吗？
(Zhè gè zuò wèi kōng zhe ma?)
I want to get off here.
我要在这里下车。
(Wǒ yào zài zhè lǐ xià chē.)

Buying Tickets

Ticket purchasing in China often requires ID verification, especially for trains. Mobile payment is preferred. Many ticket machines offer English options in major tourist areas. Advance booking is recommended for high-speed trains and flights during Chinese holidays.

Where can I buy a ticket?
我在哪里可以买票？
(Wǒ zài nǎ lǐ kě yǐ mǎi piào?)
Do I need to book a ticket in advance?
我需要提前订票吗？
(Wǒ xū yào tí qián dìng piào ma?)
Can I have a one-way / return ticket, please?
请给我一张单程/往返票。
(Qǐng gěi wǒ yī zhāng dān chéng/wǎng fǎn piào.)
Can I have a 1st-class / 2nd-class ticket to the Zoo?
请给我一张去动物园的头等/二等座票。
(Qǐng gěi wǒ yī zhāng qù dòng wù yuán de tóu děng/èr děng zù piào.)
I would like an aisle / a window seat.
我想要靠过道/靠窗的座位。
(Wǒ xiǎng yào kào zuò dào/kào chuāng de zuò wèi.)
Can I get a day / weekly ticket?
我可以买一天/一周的票吗？
(Wǒ kě yǐ mǎi yī tiān/yī zhōu de piào ma?)
I would like to cancel / change / confirm my ticket, please.
请帮我取消/更改/确认我的票。
(Qǐng bāng wǒ qǔ xiāo/gēng gǎi/què rèn wǒ de piào.)

Bus

City buses often have route maps in Chinese characters. Payment is usually via transportation card or mobile payment. Bus etiquette includes giving seats to elderly and pregnant passengers (让座 ràngzuò).

Which bus goes to the airport?
哪辆公交车去机场？
(Nǎ liàng gōng jiāo chē qù jī chǎng?)
What is the bus number?
公交车号是多少？
(Gōng jiāo chē hào shì duō shǎo?)
Where is the bus stop?
公交车站在哪里？
(Gōng jiāo chē zhàn zài nǎ lǐ?)
What is the next stop?
下一站是哪里？
(Xià yī zhàn shì nǎ lǐ?)
I would like to get off at the shopping center.
我想在购物中心下车。
(Wǒ xiǎng zài gòu wù zhōng xīn xià chē.)

Train

China's rail network is world-class, featuring high-speed trains (动车 dòngchē) and traditional trains. Subway systems in major cities are modern and efficient. Train stations are large and can be confusing; understanding platform and carriage information is crucial.

Where is the nearest underground / subway / metro station?
最近的地铁站在哪里？
(Zuì jìn de dì tiě zhàn zài nǎ lǐ?)
What station is this?
这是哪个站？
(Zhè shì nǎ gè zhàn?)
Which platform does the train leave from?
火车从哪个站台开？
(Huǒ chē cóng nǎ gè zhàn tái kāi?)
Which line goes to Victoria Station?
哪条线去维多利亚站？
(Nǎ tiáo xiàn qù Wéi duō lì yà zhàn?)
Do I need to change trains?
我需要换车吗？
(Wǒ xū yào huàn chē ma?)
Which carriage is for Heathrow?
哪节车厢去希思罗机场？
(Nǎ jié chē xiāng qù Xī sī luò jī chǎng?)

Taxi

Traditional taxis compete with ride-sharing apps like Didi. Showing destination in Chinese characters helps communication. Tipping is not expected in Chinese taxi culture. Many drivers don't speak English, so having addresses written in Chinese is helpful.

I would like a taxi at (2pm)
我想（下午两点）叫一辆出租车。
(Wǒ xiǎng (xià wǔ liǎng diǎn) jiào yī liàng chū zū chē.)
Where is the taxi stand?
出租车站在哪里？
(Chū zū chē zhàn zài nǎ lǐ?)
Please take me to this address.
请带我去这个地址。
(Qǐng dài wǒ qù zhè gè dì zhǐ.)
Could you please take me to the hotel?
请带我去酒店，好吗？
(Qǐng dài wǒ qù jǔ diàn, hǎo ma?)
Could you please take me to the train station?
请带我去火车站，好吗？
(Qǐng dài wǒ qù huǒ chē zhàn, hǎo ma?)
How much does this cost?
这个多少钱？
(Zhè gè duō shǎo qián?)
Is the price negotiable?
价格可以商量吗？
(Jià gé kě yǐ shāng liàng ma?)
Can you give me a discount?
你可以给我打折吗？
(Nǐ kě yǐ gěi wǒ dǎ zhé ma?)
Please turn on the meter.
请打开计程表。
(Qǐng dǎ kāi jì chéng biǎo.)
How long will it take to get to the airport?
去机场要多长时间？
(Qù jī chǎng yào duō cháng shí jiān?)
Stop here.
在这里停。
(Zài zhè lǐ tíng.)
Can you give me a receipt, please?
请给我发票，好吗？
(Qǐng gěi wǒ fā piào, hǎo ma?)

Accommodation

China offers diverse accommodation from luxury hotels in Beijing and Shanghai to traditional courtyard houses (四合院 sìhéyuàn). Chinese hospitality values respect and courtesy. Understanding accommodation phrases helps navigate China's vast tourism infrastructure, from the Great Wall regions to scenic Guilin and modern cities like Shenzhen.

Finding Accommodation, Booking, Checking In & Out

Chinese hotels emphasize service quality and guest satisfaction (客户满意 kèhù mǎnyì). Many establishments offer traditional Chinese breakfast alongside Western options. Business travelers often prefer hotels near commercial districts in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

Where is the hotel?
酒店在哪里？
(Jiǔ diàn zài nǎ lǐ?)
How much is it per night?
一晚多少钱？
(Yī wǎn duō shǎo qián?)
Is breakfast included?
包括早餐吗？
(Bāo kuò zǎo cān ma?)
I would like to book a room, please.
我想订一间房，谢谢。
(Wǒ xiǎng dìng yī jiān fáng, xiè xiè.)
I have a reservation for 2 nights / weeks.
我有两晚/周的预订。
(Wǒ yǒu liǎng wǎn/zhōu de yù dìng.)
Is there wireless internet access available here?
这里有无线网络吗？
(Zhè lǐ yǒu wú xiàn wǎng luò ma?)
Do you have a double / single / family room?
你们有双人/单人/家庭房吗？
(Nǐ men yǒu shuāng rén/dān rén/jiā tíng fáng ma?)
Can I see the room?
我可以看看房间吗？
(Wǒ kě yǐ kàn kàn fáng jiān ma?)
When/where is breakfast served?
早餐什么时候/在哪里供应？
(Zǎo cān shén me shí hòu/zài nǎ lǐ gōng yìng?)
Can I use the laundry facilities?
我可以使用洗衣设施吗？
(Wǒ kě yǐ shǐ yòng xǐ yī shè shī ma?)
Do you arrange tours?
你们安排旅游吗？
(Nǐ men ān pái lǚ yóu ma?)
Could I have my key, please?
请给我钥匙，谢谢。
(Qǐng gěi wǒ yào shi, xiè xiè.)
Sorry, I lost my key!
对不起，我把钥匙弄丢了！
(Duì bu qǐ, wǒ bǎ yào shi nòng diū le!)
There is no hot water.
没有热水。
(Méi yǒu rè shuǐ.)
The air conditioner / heater / fan is not working.
空调/取暖器/风扇坏了。
(Kōng tiáo/qǔ nuǎn qì/fēng shàn huài le.)
What time is checkout?
几点退房？
(Jǐ diǎn tuì fáng?)
I am leaving now.
我现在要走了。
(Wǒ xiàn zài yào zǒu le.)
Could I have my deposit back, please?
请把押金还给我，谢谢。
(Qǐng bǎ yā jīn huán gěi wǒ, xiè xiè.)
Can you call a taxi for me?
你可以帮我叫出租车吗？
(Nǐ kě yǐ bāng wǒ jiào chū zū chē ma?)

Camping

Camping in China has grown popular, especially in scenic areas like Zhangjiajie, Tibet, and Inner Mongolia. National parks and nature reserves offer designated camping areas. Always respect local regulations and environmental protection policies (环境保护 huánjìng bǎohù).

Where is the nearest campsite?
最近的露营地在哪里？
(Zuì jìn de lù yíng dì zài nǎ lǐ?)
Can I camp here?
我可以在这里露营吗？
(Wǒ kě yǐ zài zhè lǐ lù yíng ma?)
Who do I ask to stay here?
我应该问谁才能住在这里？
(Wǒ yīng gāi wèn shuí cái néng zhù zài zhè lǐ?)
Is the water drinkable?
这水可以喝吗？
(Zhè shuǐ kě yǐ hē ma?)
How much do you charge for a caravan / tent?
房车/帐篷多少钱？
(Fáng chē/zhàng péng duō shǎo qián?)

Home Staying / Staying with Locals

Homestays (民宿 mínsu) provide authentic cultural experiences in rural China. Traditional hospitality reflects Confucian values of treating guests with utmost respect. Rural homestays often include home-cooked meals featuring regional specialties and tea ceremonies (茶道 chádào).

Can I stay at your place?
我可以住在你家吗？
(Wǒ kě yǐ zhù zài nǐ jiā ma?)
I have my own sleeping bag.
我有自己的睡袋。
(Wǒ yǒu zì jǐ de shuì dài.)
Can I bring anything for the meal?
我可以为用餐带点什么吗？
(Wǒ kě yǐ wèi yòng cān dài diǎn shén me ma?)
Can I do the dishes?
我可以洗盘子吗？
(Wǒ kě yǐ xǐ pán zi ma?)
Thank you for your hospitality.
谢谢你的款待。
(Xiè xiè nǐ de kuǎn dài.)

Shopping

Shopping in China ranges from modern malls to traditional markets (集市 jíshì). Bargaining is common in street markets and with street vendors. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay dominate transactions. Understanding shopping phrases helps navigate everything from luxury shopping in Beijing to silk markets in Hangzhou.

Where is a supermarket?
超级市场在哪里？
(Chāo jí shì chǎng zài nǎ lǐ?)
Where can I buy souvenirs?
我在哪里可以买纪念品？
(Wǒ zài nǎ lǐ kě yǐ mǎi jì niàn pǐn?)
I would like to buy vintage or antique items.
我想买古董或复古物品。
(Wǒ xiǎng mǎi gǔ dǒng huò fù gǔ wù pǐn.)
How much is it?
这个多少钱？
(Zhè gè duō shǎo qián?)
Can you write down the price?
你可以写下价格吗？
(Nǐ kě yǐ xiě xià jià gé ma?)
Do you accept credit/debit cards?
你们收信用卡/借记卡吗？
(Nǐ men shōu xìn yòng kǎ/jiè jì kǎ ma?)
Do you accept cryptocurrencies?
你们收加密货币吗？
(Nǐ men shōu jiā mì huò bì ma?)
Could I have a bag, please?
请给我一个袋子，好吗？
(Qǐng gěi wǒ yī gè dài zi, hǎo ma?)
I don't need a bag, thanks.
我不需要袋子，谢谢。
(Wǒ bù xū yào dài zi, xiè xiè.)
Could I have a receipt, please?
请给我发票，好吗？
(Qǐng gěi wǒ fā piào, hǎo ma?)
I would like to return this, please.
我想退回这个，请。
(Wǒ xiǎng tuì huí zhè gè, qǐng.)
I would like my money back, please.
我想退款，请。
(Wǒ xiǎng tuì kuǎn, qǐng.)
That's too expensive.
这太贵了。
(Zhè tài guì le.)
Can you lower the price?
你可以降价吗？
(Nǐ kě yǐ jiàng jià ma?)
I will give you 5 dollars.
我给你五块钱。
(Wǒ gěi nǐ wǔ kuài qián.)

Safe Travel

China is generally safe for travelers, but knowing emergency phrases provides peace of mind. Chinese healthcare system includes traditional Chinese medicine (中医 zhōngyī) alongside Western medicine. Emergency services (急救 jíjiù) are efficient in major cities. Understanding cultural approaches to health and safety helps navigate medical situations.

Emergencies

Emergency numbers in China: 110 (Police), 119 (Fire), 120 (Medical). Chinese people are generally helpful during emergencies. Understanding basic emergency phrases can be crucial in tourist areas, especially in remote regions like Tibet or rural provinces where English may be limited.

Help!
救命！
(Jiù mìng!)
There's been an accident.
发生事故了。
(Fā shēng shì gù le.)
Thief!
小偷！
(Xiǎo tōu!)
Fire!
着火了！
(Zhuó huǒ le!)
Stop!
停！
(Tíng!)
It's an emergency!
紧急情况！
(Jǐn jí qíng kuàng!)
Do you have a first-aid kit?
你有急救箱吗？
(Nǐ yǒu jí jiū xiāng ma?)
Call a doctor/police!
快叫医生/警察！
(Kuài jiào yī shēng/jǐng chá!)
Call an ambulance?
叫救护车？
(Jiào jiù hù chē?)
Could you please help us/me?
请你帮助我们/我，好吗？
(Qǐng nǐ bāng zhù wǒ men/wǒ, hǎo ma?)
I'm lost
我迷路了。
(Wǒ mí lù le.)

Police

Chinese police (公安 gōngān) are generally helpful to foreigners. Major tourist areas have tourist police who speak English. Always carry your passport as identification is required by law. Police stations (派出所 pàichūsuǒ) are located throughout cities and can assist with various issues.

Where is the police station?
警察局在哪里？
(Jǐng chá jú zài nǎ lǐ?)
I want to report a robbery.
我要报告抢劫。
(Wǒ yào bào gào qêng jié.)
I have been robbed.
我被抢了。
(Wǒ bèi qiāng le.)
He/She has been assaulted.
他/她被袭击了。
(Tā/tā bèi xí jī le.)
My wallet was stolen?
我的钱包被偷了？
(Wǒ de qián bāo bèi tōu le?)
I have lost my wallet.
我把钱包丢了。
(Wǒ bǎ qián bāo dàng le.)
I have been wrongly accused by her.
我被她误告了。
(Wǒ bèi tā wú gào le.)
Can I call someone?
我可以打电话吗？
(Wǒ kě yǐ dǎ diàn huà ma?)
Can I call a lawyer?
我可以打给律师吗？
(Wǒ kě yǐ dǎ dàn lǜ shī ma?)
I want to contact my embassy.
我要联系我的大使馆。
(Wǒ yào lián xì wǒ de dà shǐ guǎn.)

Health

China offers both Western and traditional Chinese medicine. International hospitals in major cities have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies (药店 yàodiàn) are abundant. Health insurance is important as medical costs can be high for foreigners. Many doctors understand basic English in urban areas.

Where is the nearest hospital/doctor?
最近的医院/医生在哪里？
(Zuì jìn de yī yuàn/yī shēng zài nǎ lǐ?)
I need a doctor who speaks English.
我需要一位会说英语的医生。
(Wǒ xū yào yī wèi huì shuō yīn yǔ de yī shēng.)
Could I see a male/female doctor?
我可以找男/女医生吗？
(Wǒ kě yǐ zhǎo nán/nǚ yī shēng ma?)
Where is a nearest chemist?
最近的药店在哪里？
(Zuì jìn de yào diàn zài nǎ lǐ?)
I have been vaccinated for Covid/Hepatitis.
我已经接种过新冠/肝炎疫苗。
(Wǒ yǐ jīng jiē zhǒng guò xīn guān/gān yán yì miáo.)
I have a fever.
我发烧了。
(Wǒ fā shāo le.)
I am sick.
我生病了。
(Wǒ shēng bìng le.)
He/She/My friend is sick.
他/她/我的朋友生病了。
(Tā/tā/wǒ de péng yǒu shēng bìng le.)
I have been vomiting.
我一直在呕吐。
(Wǒ yī zhí zài ōu tù.)
I have altitude sickness.
我有高原反应。
(Wǒ yǒu gāo yuán fǎn yīng.)
I am seasick.
我晕船了。
(Wǒ yůn chán le.)
I am allergic to peanuts.
我对花生过敏。
(Wǒ duì huā shēng guò mǐn.)
I can't move my leg!
我的腿动不了了！
(Wǒ de tuǐ dòng bù liǎo le!)
My (hand/leg) is swollen.
我的（手/腿）肿了。
(Wǒ de (shǒu/tuǐ) zhǒng le.)
I have a toothache.
我牙痛。
(Wǒ yá tòng.)
My dentures are broken.
我的假牙坏了。
(Wǒ de jiǎ yá huài le.)
My gum hurts.
我的牙龈痛。
(Wǒ de yá yín tòng.)
I have run out of medication.
我的药用完了。
(Wǒ de yào yòng wán le.)
I need a prescription for blood pressure medication.
我需要血压药的处方。
(Wǒ xū yào xuè yā yào de chǔ fāng.)
I am on medication for asthma.
我在服用哮喘药。
(Wǒ zài fú yòng xiāo chuǎn yào.)

Disabilities

China is improving accessibility infrastructure, especially in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. Modern buildings often have wheelchair access. Traditional respect for elders and disabled individuals (残疾人 cánjírén) is part of Chinese culture. Many public facilities now include disability-friendly features.

I have a disability.
我有残疾。
(Wǒ yǒu cán jí.)
I need assistance.
我需要帮助。
(Wǒ xū yào bāng zhù.)
Is there wheelchair access?
有轮椅车通道吗？
(Yǒu lún yǐ chē tōng dào ma?)
Is there a disabled toilet?
有无障碍厕所吗？
(Yǒu wú zhàng ài cè suǒ ma?)
Is there a lift?
有电梯吗？
(Yǒu diàn tī ma?)
Could you help me cross this street?
你可以帮我过这条街吗？
(Nǐ kě yǐ bāng wǒ guò zhè tiáo jiē ma?)
Is there a wheelchair space?
有轮椅车位置吗？
(Yǒu lún yǐ chē wèi zhi ma?)

Time, Day and Dates in Mandarin

Chinese time concepts blend traditional lunar calendar with modern Gregorian system. Traditional festivals follow lunar calendar while business uses solar dates. Time zones are unified across China (北京时间 Běijīng Shíjiān). Understanding time expressions helps with scheduling meetings, catching trains, and participating in cultural events like Chinese New Year.

Past, Present and Future Time

Chinese time expressions reflect cultural concepts of continuity and cycles. The concept of time is often circular rather than linear in traditional Chinese thought. These phrases help navigate daily schedules, plan trips, and understand Chinese perspectives on time and planning.

Morning
早晨
(zǎo chén)
Afternoon
下午
(xià wǔ)
Evening
晚上
(wǎn shàng)
Night
夜晚
(yè wǎn)
Today
今天
(jīn tiān)
Tomorrow
明天
(míng tiān)
Tomorrow Morning
明天早晨
(míng tiān zǎo chén)
Day After Tomorrow
后天
(hòu tiān)
Yesterday
昨天
(zuó tiān)
Yesterday Evening
昨天晚上
(zuó tiān wǎn shàng)
Day Before Yesterday
前天
(qián tiān)
This Week / Next Week / Last Week
这个星期 / 下个星期 / 上个星期
(zhè gè xīng qī / xià gè xīng qī / shàng gè xīng qī)
This Month / Next Month / Last Month
这个月 / 下个月 / 上个月
(zhè gè yuè / xià gè yuè / shàng gè yuè)
This Year / Next Year / Last Year
今年 / 明年 / 去年
(jīn nián / míng nián / qù nián)
Now
现在
(xiàn zài)
Later
以后
(yǐ hòu)
Before
以前
(yǐ qián)
Until May
直到五月
(zhí dào wǔ yuè)
Within a Week
一周内
(yī zhōu nèi)
Within an hour
一小时内
(yī xiǎo shí nèi)
In (three) days
（三）天后
((sān) tiān hòu)
In (ten) minutes
（十）分钟后
((shí) fēn zhōng hòu)

The Calender

China uses both Gregorian and traditional lunar calendars. Traditional festivals like Spring Festival (春节 Chūnjié) follow lunar calendar. Business and daily life follow solar calendar. Understanding both systems helps appreciate Chinese culture and plan visits during important holidays.

Sunday
星期天
(xīng qī tiān)
Monday
星期一
(xīng qī yī)
Tuesday
星期二
(xīng qī èr)
Wednesday
星期三
(xīng qī sān)
Thursday
星期四
(xīng qī sì)
Friday
星期五
(xīng qī wǔ)
Saturday
星期六
(xīng qī liù)
January
一月
(yī yuè)
February
二月
(èr yuè)
March
三月
(sān yuè)
April
四月
(sì yuè)
May
五月
(wǔ yuè)
June
六月
(liù yuè)
July
七月
(qī yuè)
August
八月
(bā yuè)
September
九月
(jiǔ yuè)
October
十月
(shí yuè)
November
十一月
(shí yī yuè)
December
十二月
(shí èr yuè)
Summer
夏天
(xià tiān)
Autumn
秋天
(qiū tiān)
Winter
冬天
(dōng tiān)
Spring
春天
(chūn tiān)

Clock Basic in Mandarin

Chinese time expressions are straightforward and logical. 24-hour format is commonly used in official contexts. Understanding time helps with transportation schedules, business meetings, and daily activities. Chinese often reference meals when discussing time (吃饭时间 chīfàn shíjiān).

What time is it?
现在几点了？
(Xiàn zài jǐ diǎn le?)
Quarter past one / two.
一点/两点十五分。
(Yī diǎn / liǎng diǎn shí wǔ fēn.)
Quarter to one / two.
差十五分一点/两点。
(Chà shí wǔ fēn yī diǎn / liǎng diǎn.)
Half past one / two.
一点/两点半。
(Yī diǎn / liǎng diǎn bàn.)
Twenty past one / two.
一点/两点二十分。
(Yī diǎn / liǎng diǎn èr shí fēn.)
Twenty to one / two.
差二十分一点/两点。
(Chà èr shí fēn yī diǎn / liǎng diǎn.)
It's 1:30 pm / 2:15 am.
现在是下午一点三十/早晨两点十五。
(Xiàn zài shì xià wǔ yī diǎn sān shí / zǎo chén liǎng diǎn shí wǔ.)
At what time?
几点？
(Jǐ diǎn?)
At date?
几号？
(Jǐ hào?)
At ...
在...
(Zài...)
Second(s)
秒
(miǎo)
Minute(s)
分钟
(fēn zhōng)
Hours(s)
小时
(xiǎo shí)
Day
天
(tiān)
Week
周
(zhōu)
Month
月
(yuè)
Year
年
(nián)
Decade
十年
(shí nián)
Century
世纪
(shì jì)

Numbers and Amount in Mandarin

Numbers hold deep cultural significance in China. Lucky numbers like 8 (八 bā) symbolize prosperity, while 4 (四 sì) is avoided due to its similarity to "death." Chinese counting system uses groups of 10,000 (万 wàn) rather than thousands. Traditional Chinese numerology influences daily life, from phone numbers to building floors.

Cardinal Numbers

Chinese numbers follow a logical base-10 system. The traditional Chinese counting system groups numbers by 10,000 (万 wàn) and 100 million (亿 yì). Numbers are essential for shopping, bargaining in markets, and understanding prices in yuan (元 yuán).

0 (zero)
零
(líng)
1 (one)
一
(yī)
2 (two)
二
(èr)
3 (three)
三
(sān)
4 (four)
四
(sì)
5 (five)
五
(wǔ)
6 (six)
六
(liù)
7 (seven)
七
(qī)
8 (eight)
八
(bā)
9 (nine)
九
(jiǔ)
10 (ten)
十
(shí)
11 (eleven)
十一
(shí yī)
12 (twelve)
十二
(shí èr)
13 (thirteen)
十三
(shí sān)
14 (fourteen)
十四
(shí sì)
15 (fifteen)
十五
(shí wǔ)
16 (sixteen)
十六
(shí liù)
17 (seventeen)
十七
(shí qī)
18 (eighteen)
十八
(shí bā)
19 (nineteen)
十九
(shí jiǔ)
20 (twenty)
二十
(èr shí)
21 (twenty one)
二十一
(èr shí yī)
30 (thirty)
三十
(sān shí)
40 (forty)
四十
(sì shí)
50 (fifty)
五十
(wǔ shí)
60 (sixty)
六十
(liù shí)
70 (seventy)
七十
(qī shí)
80 (eighty)
八十
(bā shí)
90 (ninety)
九十
(jiǔ shí)
100 (one hundred)
一百
(yī bǎi)
101 (one hundred one)
一百零一
(yī bǎi líng yī)
200 (two hundred)
两百
(liǎng bǎi)
201 (two hundred one)
两百零一
(liǎng bǎi líng yī)
500 (five hundred)
五百
(wǔ bǎi)
1,000 (one thousand)
一千
(yī qiān)
2,000 (two thousand)
两千
(liǎng qiān)
2,001 (two thousand one)
两千零一
(liǎng qiān líng yī)
2,102 (two thousand one hundred two)
两千一百零二
(liǎng qiān yī bǎi líng èr)
10,000 (ten thousand)
一万
(yī wàn)
100,000 (one hundred thousand)
十万
(shí wàn)
1,000,000 (one million)
一百万
(yī bǎi wàn)
1,000,000,000 (one billion)
一十亿
(yī shí yì)

Ordinal Numbers

Ordinal numbers in Chinese use the prefix 第 (dì) before cardinal numbers. These are commonly used for rankings, floors in buildings, and sequence descriptions. Note that Chinese buildings often skip the 4th floor due to cultural superstitions.

First (1^st)
第一
(dì yī)
Second (2^nd)
第二
(dì èr)
Third (3^rd)
第三
(dì sān)
Fourth (4^th)
第四
(dì sì)
Fifth (5^th)
第五
(dì wǔ)
Sixth (6^th)
第六
(dì liù)
Seventh (7^th)
第七
(dì qī)
Eighth (8^th)
第八
(dì bā)
Ninth (9^th)
第九
(dì jiǔ)
Tenth (10^th)
第十
(dì shí)

Amount

Understanding quantities is crucial for daily life in China. Fractions and amounts help in cooking traditional dishes, shopping at wet markets, and negotiating prices. Chinese often use specific measure words (量词 liàngcí) with numbers depending on the object being counted.