Mandarin Weekly #137

 

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Hi! This is Mandarin Weekly #137, a free newsletter read by more than 20,000 students of Chinese around the world.

Sorry about the delay in getting this out, but I just returned from a (great, relaxing, fun-with-family) vacation.  We should be back on a normal schedule starting next week (i.e., September 11th).

Customize Mandarin Weekly for your interests and learning level, and support the creation of each issue, by subscribing to Mandarin Weekly Plus. It costs less than $1/week, and less than 50¢/week for students. Click here to subscribe!

If you enjoy Mandarin Weekly, please share it with others. And don’t forget to take advantage of our list of discounts for students of Chinese.

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If you offer products or services aimed at students of Chinese, and want to sponsor one or more issues, then please contact Reuven at reuven@lerner.co.il.

Word order Beginner Grammar Video

How different is word order in Chinese from English? This video provides a useful perspective, with simple but effective examples:

http://www.sinosplice.com/life/archives/2017/08/30/chinese-word-order-and-english-word-order-how-similar

Types of characters All Characters

There are many different Chinese characters, but there are only a few types of characters, distinct patterns into which the characters can be organized. Here is an introduction to these patterns, and how to use them to read more easily:

https://www.writtenchinese.com/lowdown-6-types-of-chinese-characters/

Twitter: @WrittenChinese

Emotions Beginner Grammar Video

Want to express emotions and feelings in Chinese? These cute videos demonstrate a variety of them, with some catchy music, to boot:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glbjvNh0Iv8

Twitter: @ChineseBuddy

Question words Beginner Grammar

How do you ask questions in Chinese? You use a question word, of coursze, just like in English and many other languages. Here is an introduction to the various question words in Chinese:

http://www.fluentu.com/blog/chinese/2017/09/04/chinese-question-words/

Twitter: @FluentU

Flirt in Chinese Intermediate Vocabulary Expressions

Love is in the air! Lots of Chinese-learning blogs have recently posted about how to flirt in Chinese. In case you missed the other posts, or just want to try a few new and different ways to say you find someone attractive, here’s the latest way to flirt in Chinese:

http://www.fluentu.com/blog/chinese/2017/08/28/flirt-in-chinese/

Twitter: @FluentU

Let’s get dressed! Beginner Vocabulary

Want to get dressed in Chinese? Here are some essential vocabulary words you’ll need to do so:

http://allaboutchinese.tumblr.com/post/164718394088/allaboutchinese-%E6%89%93%E6%89%AE-dress-up

Verbling review All Reviews

Want to improve your Chinese speaking (and listening) ability? Verbling is another company offering paid, online instructors with whom you can practice in real time:

https://www.alllanguageresources.com/verbling-review-an-alternative-to-italki/

Basic travel expressions Beginner Travel

Planning to travel in China? Knowing some Chinese, even if you’re totally new to the language, will help a great deal. Here are some basic phrases that you should learn before your first trip:

https://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/4-must-know-expressions-for-chinese-beginners-traveling-in-china/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

Organic in China Intermediate Food

Want to buy organic produce in China, or eat at restaurants that only use organic products? You’ll find yourself challenged to do so, but after reading this article, at least you’ll know how to ask the right questions (and even understand the answers):

https://chinesepod.com/blog/2017/08/30/going-organic/

Twitter: @ChinesePod

Ghost month! All Culture

This is “ghost month” in China, during which certain traditions (or even “superstitions”) come out of the wordwork. Here are some things to know about ghost month:

https://www.digmandarin.com/chinese-ghost-month.html

Twitter: @DigMandarin

Animal expressions Intermediate Expressions

Chinese is full of sayings and expressions. These often mention animals, as we can see here:

https://www.digmandarin.com/chinese-idioms-chengyu-animals.html

Twitter: @DigMandarin

Listen better Intermediate Listening

Learning to hear the sounds of Chinese is important not just for comprehension, but also for speaking correctly. Here are some suggestions for improving your listening, and a new course that can help you to do so:

http://www.hackingchinese.com/training-and-testing-your-ability-to-hear-mandarin-sounds/

Twitter: @HackingChinese

Mandarin vs. Cantonese All Culture

Mandarin Weekly is about, well, Mandarin Chinese. But there are other forms, or “dialects,” of Chinese. One of the most common is Cantonese. How are Mandarin and Cantonese similar, and how are they different?

https://www.tutormandarin.net/en/similarities-differences-cantonese-vs-mandarin/

Twitter: @MyTutorMandarin

Numbers in Chinese Beginner Grammar

Counting is very easy in Chinese, once you get the hang of the number system:

http://www.saporedicina.com/english/chinese-numeric-system/

Different ways to travel Intermediate Vocabulary

There are different words for “travel” in Chinese, but is there any difference between them? For example, we can say either 旅游 (lǚ yóu) or 旅行 (lǚ xíng), as described here:

https://themandarincornerblog.com/2017/08/25/whats-the-difference-between-lu-you-%e6%97%85%e6%b8%b8-and-lu-xing%e6%97%85%e8%a1%8c/

Eclipse fever All Vocabulary

Much of the United States was gripped by eclipse excitement in August, with a total solar eclipse. How can you describe it in Chinese? Here’s a nice article on the subject:

https://teachmechinese.wordpress.com/2017/08/29/learn-the-chinese-word-for-a-total-solar-eclipse/

Measuring meals Advanced Grammar

顿 (dùn) and 道 (dào) can both be used as measure word for meals and eating. How are they different?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/26331/whats-the-difference-between-%e9%a1%bf-and-%e9%81%93-as-a-measure-word-for-meals

Mandarin Weekly #134

More than 20 links to help you with your Chinese studies!

 

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Hi, [subscriber.full_name]! This is Mandarin Weekly #134, a free newsletter read by more than 20,000 students of Chinese around the world.

Customize Mandarin Weekly for your interests and learning level, and support the creation of each issue, by subscribing to Mandarin Weekly Plus. It costs less than $1/week, and less than 50¢/week for students. Click here to subscribe!



[Sorry for the delay in producing this week’s issue — it’s summer, which has scrambled my schedule a bit.]

If you enjoy Mandarin Weekly, please share it with others. And don’t forget to take advantage of our list of discounts for students of Chinese.

To receive Mandarin Weekly every Monday, sign up MandarinWeekly.com. Every Tuesday, we go up on Facebook, at http://facebook.com/MandarinWeekly, Medium, at http://medium.com/@mandarinweekly, and Twitter, at @MandarinWeekly.  Please like, share, and retweet us!

If you offer products or services aimed at students of Chinese, and want to sponsor one or more issues, then please contact Reuven at reuven@lerner.co.il.

Stinky tofu song Beginner Grammar Video

Do you like stinky tofu? (Yes, that’s really what it’s called.) Regardless, you can enjoy this song about the dish that so many in China like to eat, but don’t like to be next to:

http://www.sinosplice.com/life/archives/2017/07/31/the-grammar-of-an-ode-to-stinky-tofu

Idea characters All Characters

Sometimes, characters aren’t a picture of a thing so much as of an idea. Here are several such characters, and the thinking that you should use to understand them:

http://www.fluentinmandarin.com/content/chinese-characters-explained-2-ones-that-represent-meanings/

Twitter: @Fluent_Mandarin

Bureaucracy Intermediate Vocabulary Culture

Understanding China also means understanding the Chinese government, bureaucracy, and the terms associated with them. Here is an extensive list of words and phrases, including slogans, that you’re likely to see or hear in China:

http://www.saporedicina.com/english/bureaucratic-terms-chinese/

Early or late? Intermediate Grammar Video

The words 才 (cái) and 就 (jiù) are used to indicate that something has happened before or after you expected. Here’s how to use them:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgAv4WW9_4A

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Words using 老 (lǎo) Intermediate Vocabulary

The character 老 means “old,” and is part of many different words — some involving age, and others involving respect:

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/15-chinese-words-using-lao/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

Choosing a Chinese name All Culture

Do you have a Chinese name? If not, then you should choose one. Here is some background about Chinese names, along with some suggestions for how to choose one:

http://www.digmandarin.com/choose-chinese-name.html

Twitter: @DigMandarin

Using 即使 (jí shǐ) Intermediate Grammar

The conjunction 即使 is sort of like “if” in English, but emphasizes the contrast between things. You can learn more about it here:

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/how-to-use-the-chinese-conjunction-word-%e5%8d%b3%e4%bd%bf/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

When? Always! (Or Never!) Intermediate Grammar Video

If you want to say that something is “always” or “never” true, then you need to have those words. This video gives lots of examples you can use in your day-to-day conversations:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YoM1hB885p0

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Useful apps All Reviews

Want to use your phone to improve your Chinese? Here are some apps you should try:

http://www.tutormandarin.net/en/best-chinese-apps-learning-chinese-2017/

Twitter: @MyTutorMandarin

Translation woes Intermediate Reviews Books

Yang Wen’s “Lost in Translation” describes common mistakes when translating between Chinese and English, and some suggestions for how not to make those errors:

http://carlgene.com/blog/2017/08/what-we-can-learn-from-yang-wens-lost-in-translation/

Twitter: @carlfordham

Dumb scammers Beginner Vocabulary

Have you been scammed in China? You can hope that the person who scammed you is as foolish as the one in this story. Along the way, learn some good vocabulary for handling scams:

https://themandarincornerblog.com/2017/08/07/the-stupidest-scammer-in-china/

New Year traditions All Holidays

Chinese New Year is not exactly around the corner, but this article describes the holiday and its traditions with enough detail to last you until then:

http://www.tutormandarin.net/en/chinese-new-year-traditions-need-know/

Twitter: @MyTutorMandarin

Double 9 Festival Beginner Holidays

What, you haven’t heard of 重阳节 (chóng yáng jié)? You’re not alone, but here’s an explanation that will set you straight:

http://www.echineselearning.com/blog/4-ways-that-chinese-people-honor-the-double-ninth-festival

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Simple pronunciation Beginner Pronunciation

Not sure where to start, in order to ensure that your pronunciation is as accurate as possible? Here’s a primer:

http://www.echineselearning.com/blog/a-beginners-guide-to-chinese-pronunciation

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Intro to Pinyin Beginner Pronunciation

What is Pinyin, and how (how) can you use it to learn faster and better? Here’s a short introduction that will help you to remember how to pronounce Chinese, and how Pinyin reminds you of those pronunciations:

https://medium.com/@thechinesesun/chinese-mandrin-101-why-do-you-need-to-learn-chinese-hanyu-pinyin-c8bc927b9e58

Twitter: @TheChineseSun

Memrise review All Reviews

Many people use Memrise to practice their Chinese (and other languages). Here is a review describing Memrise, and why you should (or shouldn’t) use it:

https://medium.com/@braydenfox/memrise-a-free-language-learning-website-noplag-review-ea8c0675c703

Traffic terms Beginner Vocabulary

Planning to drive in China? Or perhaps just walk? (It’s not clear what’s more challenging!) Here are some terms you should know:

http://www.e-putonghua.com/zone/index.php/2017/08/07/listen-traffic-light-and-traffic-regulations/

Twitter: @eputonghua

Language learning wisdom Intermediate Expressions Learning

Learning a language isn’t easy or straightforward. Here are some sayings, in Chinese, that can help to encourage you along this path:

https://www.writtenchinese.com/10-thought-provoking-quotes-for-learning-a-language/

Twitter: @WrittenChinese

Visiting Taipei All Travel

Visiting Taipei (the capital of Taiwan)? Here are some hints about what to see and do while there:

http://www.saporedicina.com/english/travel-to-taipei/

Transportation Beginner Vocabulary

How can you get around in China? Here are some common (and uncommon) vehicle types:

http://allaboutchinese.tumblr.com/post/163913015999/allaboutchinese-%E4%BA%A4%E9%80%9A%E5%B7%A5%E5%85%B7-transportation

Hey, good looking! Intermediate Vocabulary

Want to flirt in Chinese? In this video, you’ll see how to tell someone you find them attractive, or even if you want to move onto more direct phrases and actions:

https://chelseabubbly.com/2017/08/02/how-to-flirt-in-chinese/

Twitter: @Chelsea_bubbly

Back to school! Beginner Vocabulary Video

Looking forward to the new school year? Maybe not, but at least you can learn the necessary terms in Chinese with this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQsT52cupLg

Twitter: @chineseclass101

Pickup lines in Chinese Intermediate Expressions

Want to pick up someone in Chinese? Here are some phrases that (supposedly) really work. Did they? Let us know!

http://www.fluentu.com/blog/chinese/2017/07/31/chinese-pick-up-lines/

Twitter: @FluentU

At the beach Beginner Vocabulary

Enjoying the beach this summer? If so, then you might want to add to your enjoyment by describing it in Chinese:

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/at-the-beach-in-chinese/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

Hip hop in Chinese Intermediate Video

Enjoy hip hop music? Well, you can enjoy it in Chinese, as well, with videos from these famous Chinese artists:

https://chinesepod.com/blog/2017/08/02/top-7-chinese-hip-hop-artists/

Twitter: @ChinesePod

About 大连 (Dalian) Advanced Story

Have you ever visited Dalian, a well known tourist spot? If not, this story can introduce you to the city:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/16-2009-12-02-23-37-52/2906-2017-08-02-01-37-38

Twitter: @imandarinpod

All about me Beginner Story

In this story, we’re introduced to a young Chinese:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/14-2009-12-02-23-37-05/2904-2017-07-31-13-48-40

Twitter: @imandarinpod

Everybody dance! Advanced Story

Dancing in the square? Absolutely, everyone does it in China:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/16-2009-12-02-23-37-52/2908-2017-08-04-01-49-24

Twitter: @imandarinpod

Mandarin Weekly #133

Mandarin Weekly hand-picks 20 of the best links for students of Chinese. Learn more Chinese in less time!

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Hi, there! This is Mandarin Weekly #133, a free newsletter read by more than 20,000 students of Chinese around the world.

Customize Mandarin Weekly for your interests and learning level, and support the creation of each issue, by subscribing to Mandarin Weekly Plus. It costs less than $1/week, and less than 50¢/week for students. Click here to subscribe!

If you enjoy Mandarin Weekly, please share it with others. And don’t forget to take advantage of our list of discounts for students of Chinese.

To receive Mandarin Weekly every Monday, sign up MandarinWeekly.com. Every Tuesday, we go up on Facebook, at http://facebook.com/MandarinWeekly, Medium, at http://medium.com/@mandarinweekly, and Twitter, at @MandarinWeekly.  Please like, share, and retweet us!

Chinese humor All Culture Video

Have you ever noticed that American and Chinese humor is far from the same? In particular, sarcasm isn’t as well known or recognized in China. Here are some tips about crossing the cultural humor divide:

https://chinesepod.com/blog/2017/07/26/chinese-humor-vs-american-humor-and-how-to-be-sarcastic-using-%E7%9C%8B%E8%B5%B7%E6%9D%A5/

Twitter: @ChinesePod

Different types of “always” Intermediate Grammar Video

Where English has one type of “always,” Chinese as two, as described here:

http://www.digmandarin.com/always-in-chinese.html

Twitter: @DigMandarin

Listening challenge All Listening

It’s another Hacking Chinese challenge? This month, try to listen to as much Chinese as possible, at whatever level is appropriate for you:

http://www.hackingchinese.com/chinese-listening-challenge-august-2017/

Twitter: @HackingChinese

Summer camp Advanced Story

What is summer camp like in China? Here’s a brief glimpse into this world:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/16-2009-12-02-23-37-52/2900-2017-07-25-03-24-38

Twitter: @imandarinpod

Balancing your characters Intermediate Characters

Writing characters is more than just writing the correct strokes. The strokes need to be in the right places within the character’s “box,” so that the character appears balanced. Here are some tips for ensuring your characters are balanced in this way:

https://www.writtenchinese.com/how-to-make-sure-your-chinese-characters-are-balanced/

Twitter: @WrittenChinese

Not feeling so great Beginner Vocabulary

Not feeling well? Here are a few symptoms that might lead you to see a doctor, or even go to the hospital:

http://www.e-putonghua.com/zone/index.php/2017/07/25/listen-how-to-pronounce-6-symptoms-that-need-to-go-to-hospital-in-standard-chinese-putonghua/

Twitter: @eputonghua

Classical gardens Advanced Story

Chinese classical gardens have specific layouts and contents. In this story, we learn about them:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/13-2009-12-02-23-35-40/2902-2017-07-29-06-43-24

Twitter: @imandarinpod

Not just Pinyin All Characters

If you’re learning to read Chinese, then chances ar you’re using Pinyin. But in somne places, a different system known as Zhuyin is used. What are the advantages of each?

https://blog.hutong-school.com/guestblog-pinyin-vs-zhuyin/

Twitter: @hutongschool

Video resources All Video

Want to watch Chinese-language videos, to improve your fluency and listening (well, watching) ability? Here are some sources you can check out:

http://www.fluentu.com/blog/chinese/2017/07/26/learn-chinese-videos/

Twitter: @FluentU

Fractions Beginner Grammar Video

How do you say fractions, such as 2/3, or 4/5, in Chinese?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QH8ErLjN2rY

Twitter: @YoYoChinese

Taiwanese fried chicken Advanced Video

I’ve never seen a review of fried chicken quite like this one; while I’m skeptical of its culinary sophistication, it’s good listening practice. (But be warned, watching someone eat fried chicken doesn’t make for super-compelling viewing!)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrsgZn9frCI

I’m a fan! Intermediate Vocabulary Video

How can you say that you’re a fan — of a sport, of a celebrity, or of a company’s products? Here are some useful words to express these ideas:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6498R-RcLg

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Cloudy, sunny, and rainy Beginner Vocabulary Video

How can you discuss the weather in basic ways, describing sunny, cloudy, and rainy days? This video will explain:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1S3tJ2l3T5E

Twitter: @ECLSchool

“Still” and “yet” Intermediate Grammar Video

How much time is left? Is the car still broken? These types of sentences require the word “still”, which works differently in Chinese than in English:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pap5v9cgM1M

More “Game of Thrones” vocabvulary. Advanced Vocabulary Video

Last week, we saw a video that describes Game of Thrones in Chinese. This week, we’ll look into weapons used, among other things:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AxP1zXocRos

Twitter: @ChinesePod

All about 功夫 (gōng fū), aka Kung Fu Beginner Vocabulary Culture

What is 功夫 and its history? This article will tell you everything you need, aside from doing 功夫 itself:

http://www.echineselearning.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-to-become-a-chinese-kung-fu-expert

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Intro Chinese in 30 minutes Beginner Pronunciation Characters Video

Planning a visit to China in the near future, and want a quick introduction to the language? This video provides a good background, introducing some characters, pronunciation, vocabulary, and even sample sentences and grammar:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNiZ97hEzhc

Twitter: @chineseclass101

This week, or next week? Intermediate Grammar

How can you say (and interpret) terms like “this Sunday” and “next Wednesday” in Chinese?

https://forum.wordreference.com/threads/this-next-tuesday.3349522/

Time words Beginner Grammar

There are words to describe different times of day in Chinese, such as 早上 (zǎo shang) and 中午 (zhōng wǔ). When does each of these time periods start and end?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/25715/associating-times-of-day-with-meals

Approximations Intermediate Vocabulary

When should you use 大概 (dà gài), and when should you use 大约 (dà yuē)? Both can mean “approximately,” but they’re used in different ways:

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/25718/what-are-the-distinctions-between-%e5%a4%a7%e6%a6%82-and-%e5%a4%a7%e7%ba%a6

Mandarin Weekly #132

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Hi, there! This is Mandarin Weekly #132, a free newsletter read by more than 20,000 students of Chinese around the world.

If you enjoy Mandarin Weekly, please share it with others. And don’t forget to take advantage of our list of discounts for students of Chinese.

To receive Mandarin Weekly every Monday, sign up MandarinWeekly.com. Every Tuesday, we go up on Facebook, at http://facebook.com/MandarinWeekly, Medium, at http://medium.com/@mandarinweekly, and Twitter, at @MandarinWeekly.  Please like, share, and retweet us!

If you offer products or services aimed at students of Chinese, and want to sponsor one or more issues, then please contact Reuven at reuven@lerner.co.il.

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Spend more time learning Chinese, and less time reading links that aren’t relevant to you. Subscribe to Mandarin Weekly Plus today!

Know your numbers Intermediate Grammar

Chinese numbers are a relatively easy part of the language, but (as always) the structure and vocabulary are different from other languages. Here are some tips for everything from counting to multiplying fractions:

https://www.writtenchinese.com/the-practical-uses-of-chinese-numerals/

Twitter: @WrittenChinese

Receiving things Intermediate Grammar

What’s the difference between 收(shōu)and 受(shòu)? Both mean “received,” but the Chinese meaning is quite different:

https://medium.com/@makeProChinese/how-to-receive-things-in-chinese-%E6%94%B6-sh%C5%8Du-vs-%E5%8F%97-sh%C3%B2u-4182bda33ae4

Traditional or simplified characters All Characters

Should you be learning simplified or traditional characters? Or should you even try to do both at the same time? This article lays out the reasons for each, and then some schools that teach one, the other, or both:

http://www.fluentu.com/blog/chinese/2017/07/19/chinese-online-course/

Twitter: @FluentU

If you please Beginner Expressions Video

When you speak in your native language, you recognize the difference between giving an order and asking (politely) for someone to help you. Here are some expressions that you should add to your Chinese, to similarly sound more polite:

https://mandarinhq.com/2017/07/polite-chinese-expressions/

Twitter: @MandarinHQ

Talking about TV Intermediate Video

Want to talk about Game of Thrones, or other TV shows, with your friends? This video contains a spoiler-free discussion of that specific show, but a lot of words you can use to discuss all things television-related:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2OvASb-AmU

Twitter: @ChinesePod

Childrens’ songs Beginner Video

Here are a number of childrens’ songs, some originally in Chinese and some translated from English, that you can hear and watch in Chinese, and then (if you’re not too embarrassed), sing along!

https://www.misspandachinese.com/chinese-kids-songs/

Twitter: @MissPandaChines

Should you learn slang? All Learning

Learning Chinese slang is fun, but is it useful? Will it help us toward fluency?

http://www.hackingchinese.com/learning-not-learning-chinese-slang/

Twitter: @HackingChinese

This tastes like… Beginner Vocabulary Video

How does your food taste? Is it sweet? Bitter? Or perhaps something else? In this video, we learn the different types of flavors we can discuss in Chinese:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gks3AGxQ-As

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Pictographic characters Intermediate Characters Video

People often think that Chinese characters are pictures. This is largely untrue, but there are about 600 characters that are pictures. Which are these, and what can we learn from them?

http://www.fluentinmandarin.com/content/chinese-characters-explained-1-ones-that-look-like-things/

Twitter: @Fluent_Mandarin

Lucky you All Culture

Every culture has things it considers lucky vs. unlucky. What is considered lucky in China?

http://www.digmandarin.com/5-lucky-things-chinese-culture.html

Twitter: @DigMandarin

Take a little look Intermediate Grammar Video

In Chinese, you can add 一下 () to any verb to indicate you’ll do it a little or quickly, or just to soften the meaning a bit, as demonstrated here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffIBv2ABmOU

Directions and locations Intermediate Grammar

If you’re asking for directions, then you’ll need to know how to describe places — or how to understand the response you get from the person you just asked:

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/directions-and-locations-in-chinese-part-three/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

Visiting Chengde All Travel

The city of 承德 (chéng dé) contains a summer palace even nicer than the one in Beijing:

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/a-short-visit-to-chengde/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

Saving face Intermediate Culture

What does it mean to “save face” in China, and what should you do as a result?

http://www.saporedicina.com/english/face-issues-in-china/

Bugs! Beginner Vocabulary

Do you know how to call several common insects in Chinese? Here is your chance to learn:

http://www.e-putonghua.com/zone/index.php/2017/07/21/listen-six-new-words-about-insects/

Twitter: @eputonghua

Travel words Beginner Vocabulary

You’re traveling to China for the first time, and want to learn some basic Chinese. What are some useful sentences to know?

http://www.tutormandarin.net/en/travel-chinese-useful-sentences/

Twitter: @MyTutorMandarin

Sing along All Vocabulary Video

Learn vocabulary and grammar patterns, and a new song, in this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8vOi_q8nbY

Twitter: @YoYoChinese

Good night, gorilla Intermediate Story Video

Listen to (and read) the amusing and well-known children’s book, “Good Night, Gorilla,” but in Chinese:

https://www.misspandachinese.com/story-time-good-night-gorilla-chinese/

Twitter: @MissPandaChines

Learning strategies All Learning

Are you in China, looking to improve your Chinese? Try some of this author’s strategies, which worked quite well:

http://www.iwillteachyoualanguage.com/smart-strategies-chinese/

Asking them out Intermediate Vocabulary

Want to ask someone out on a date? That’s always tough. Want to ask somneone out on a date using Chinese? Now that’s even tougher. But here is some vocabulary you can use to get by:

https://chelseabubbly.com/2017/07/17/how-to-ask-someone-out-on-a-date-in-chinese/

Twitter: @Chelsea_bubbly

Advanced reading practice Advanced Story

Here are some stories you can read through to improve your comprehension:

http://www.alllanguageresources.com/reading-practice-5-love-languages/

Bedside manner Advanced Grammar

Why and how is the character 床 (chuáng), which means “bed,” used in other expressions?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/25641/how-is-%E5%BA%8A-related-to-these-contexts

Flight attendants Intermediate Vocabulary

The word 空姐 (kōng jiě) can mean “flight attendant,” but is it still used politely? Yes:

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/25638/is-%e7%a9%ba%e5%a7%90-still-used

Mandarin Weekly #131

 

Image

Hi, there! This is Mandarin Weekly #131, a free newsletter read by more than 20,000 students of Chinese around the world.

If you enjoy Mandarin Weekly, please share it with others. And don’t forget to take advantage of our list of discounts for students of Chinese.

To receive Mandarin Weekly every Monday, sign up MandarinWeekly.com. Every Tuesday, we go up on Facebook, at http://facebook.com/MandarinWeekly, Medium, at http://medium.com/@mandarinweekly, and Twitter, at @MandarinWeekly.  Please like, share, and retweet us!

Next week, we’ll be launching Mandarin Weekly Plus, allowing you to tailor the newsletter, such that you’ll receive only the levels and topics you want. Look for our announcement next week for how to sign up, and customize your Chinese learning experience!

Useful sentence patterns Intermediate Grammar

Chinese sentence patterns are usually quite standard. Here are some unusual and more advanced patterns you can use:

https://www.writtenchinese.com/18-intermediate-chinese-sentence-patterns-you-need-to-learn/

Twitter: @WrittenChinese

The three de’s Intermediate Grammar

Three characters (的, 得, and 地) are all pronounced “de,” but have different meanings and uses:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ggPbyZN96ss

Twitter: @ChinesePod

Characters with multiple sounds Intermediate Characters

Every character has a sound and a meaning, right? Well, sort of — many characters have multiple meanings, and many also have multiple sounds! Here are some common examples to keep in mind:

https://medium.com/@TutorMing/chinese-characters-with-multiple-pronunciations-9e9b189c0925

Wild phrases Intermediate Expressions

Here are some useful, if edgy and weird, phrases you can use in Chinese:

http://www.digmandarin.com/wild-chinese-phrases.html

Twitter: @DigMandarin

Is it? Beginner Grammar Video

Want to ask if something XYZ or not? Here’s the grammar pattern you will need:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DoKQAVcQk9c

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Podcasts for learning All Reviews

There are lots of podcasts out there, and some of them exist to help you improve your Chinese. Here is a roundup (and review) of a number of good podcasts:

http://www.alllanguageresources.com/learn-mandarin-podcasts/

Overcome your fear All Learning

Learning Chinese is hard, and can take time. How can you overcome your fears, and push ahead so as to improve?

http://justlearnchinese.com/how-to-overcome-your-fear-of-speaking-chinese/

Twitter: @graceJLC

Job interview Intermediate Expressions Video

Going for an interview? Here are words and phrases you really should know:

https://chelseabubbly.com/2017/07/11/how-to-handle-an-interview-in-chinese/

Twitter: @Chelsea_bubbly

Directions in Chinese Beginner Grammar

How do you give (or receive) directions in Chinese? Here are some useful vocabulary words and grammar patterns for getting where you need to go:

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/directions-and-locations-in-chinese-part-one/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

Directions in Chinese Beginner Grammar

How do you give (or receive) directions in Chinese?

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/directions-and-locations-in-chinese-part-two/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

What’s the weather? Beginner Vocabulary Video

How is today’s weather? In this video, we can learn some basic weather expressions:

https://chelseabubbly.com/2017/07/09/lets-talk-about-todays-weather/

Twitter: @Chelsea_bubbly

Bad Chinese song All Video

Do you mispronounce words, perhaps saying 睡觉 (shuì jiào) instead of 水饺 (shuǐ jiǎo)? Here’s a cute song by some English singers who have made lots of mistakes:

https://www.misspandachinese.com/songs-to-learn-chinese/

Twitter: @MissPandaChines

Taking the HSK All Learning

Want to prove that you know Chinese? You can take the HSK examinations, levels 1-6, given by the Confucius Institute. Here is some background on the tests:

http://www.saporedicina.com/english/confucius-institute/

Stood up? Intermediate Expressions Video

Here’s a great expression that really means, “You’ve been stood up”:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Pa_mUxtxvI

Twitter: @MyTutorMandarin

Ninchanese review All Reviews

How good is Nichanese for learning and improving your Chinese reading, speaking, and listening? Surprisingly good, it turns out:

http://www.alllanguageresources.com/ninchanese-review/

Chinese hip-hop Intermediate Video

Enjoy hip-hop music? Perhaps, but have you ever heard it in Chinese? Here’s a song called “Purple soul,” with characters + pinyin + translation, if you don’t quite know what’s going on:

http://www.alllanguageresources.com/practice-materials-music-purple-soul/

Dialects Advanced Story

Chinese has many different dialects, as described in this story:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/13-2009-12-02-23-35-40/2889-2017-07-12-05-43-45

Twitter: @imandarinpod

Your kind of animal Beginner Story

What kind of animal do you resemble?

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/14-2009-12-02-23-37-05/2888-2017-07-12-05-09-18

Twitter: @imandarinpod

Basic travel phrases Beginner Expressions

Traveling to a Chinese-speaking country for the first time? These phrases can come in handy:

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/chinese-for-travelers/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

Learning strategies All Learning

You want to learn a new language. That’s great! What can you do in order to speed up your language learning?

http://www.iwillteachyoualanguage.com/embrace-mistakes/

Losing your house Intermediate Vocabulary

The word 拆迁 (chāi qiān) refers to destroying a building and forcing the residents to move elsehwere. Surprisingly, it’s not seen as a bad thing. Here’s some background on this word, and why it’s so common in today’s Chinese cities:

https://themandarincornerblog.com/2017/07/10/why-do-many-chinese-want-their-homes-demolished/

Interjections show excitement Beginner Grammar Video

Wow! Oops! How do you say those in Chinese? Here are some examples of interjections you can use in your conversations:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gzrj8MD95qk

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Sentence structure Beginner Grammar

Chinese sentences have a set structure, and the earlier you can learn it, the better you’ll be able to express yourself. Here are some hints and ideas regarding that structure, and some variations on it:

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/25435/should-the-object-always-be-placed-after-the-verb-and-is-a-target-and-an-object

Vulgar expressions Intermediate Expressions

Every language has expressions that are considered rude; a simple question leads to an introduction to several of these:

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/25508/what-does-the-phrase-%e6%88%91%e7%9a%84%e5%a6%88%e6%9d%a5-mean-when-it-is-used-to-express-shock-or-surprise

Dusk, evening, nighttime Intermediate Grammar

Different terms for “night” or “evening” in Chinese refer to specific periods of time:

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/25501/difference-between-%e5%82%8d%e6%99%9a-and-%e6%99%9a%e4%b8%8a-and-their-etymology

Referring to people Intermediate Grammar

Is there a difference between calling someone a 中国人 (zhōng guó rén) and a 华人 (huá rén)?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/25480/%e4%b8%ad%e5%9b%bd%e4%ba%ba-vs-%e5%8d%8e%e4%ba%ba-which-should-i-use

Mandarin Weekly #130

Image

Hi, there! This is Mandarin Weekly #130, a free newsletter read by more than 20,000 students of Chinese around the world.

If you enjoy Mandarin Weekly, please share it with others. And don’t forget to take advantage of our list of discounts for students of Chinese.

To receive Mandarin Weekly every Monday, sign up MandarinWeekly.com. Every Tuesday, we go up on Facebook, at http://facebook.com/MandarinWeekly, Medium, at http://medium.com/@mandarinweekly, and Twitter, at @MandarinWeekly.  Please like, share, and retweet us!

If you offer products or services aimed at students of Chinese, and want to sponsor one or more issues, then please contact Reuven at reuven@lerner.co.il.

Also: In the coming weeks, we’ll be launching Mandarin Weekly Plus, which will allow you to customize issues, such that you receive only the topics and levels you want. Look for details in coming editions of Mandarin Weekly!

de de de Beginner Grammar

What’s the difference between the three characters that sound identical and have similar uses? An introduction to 的, 得, and 地:

https://chelseabubbly.com/2017/07/06/grammar-points-on-%E7%9A%84-%E5%9C%B0-%E5%BE%97/

Twitter: @Chelsea_bubbly

Simple sentence structure Beginner Grammar

Constructing sentences in Chinese requires knowing some basic grammar patterns. Here are a number of sentences (and patterns) you can learn, emulate, and use:

http://www.fluentu.com/blog/chinese/2017/07/05/simple-chinese-words/

Twitter: @FluentU

Common questions Beginner Learning

Are you starting to learn Chinese? Do you have some burning questions about how you’ll learn the language, what you should concentrate on in these initial stages, and how you can possibly remember so many characters? These questions, and others, are answered here:

https://www.writtenchinese.com/10-genuine-questions-every-beginner-of-chinese-has/

Twitter: @WrittenChinese

Three myths Beginner Learning

Learning Chinese can seem scary at first, but you’ll soon find that it’s not that bad. Here are three myths that many newcomers to the language need to dispel:

http://www.digmandarin.com/start-speaking-mandarin-quickly.html

Twitter: @DigMandarin

No planning needed Beginner Grammar

How can you indicate that something is unplanned, but you’ll wing it?

https://chelseabubbly.com/2017/07/05/vocabulary-impromptu-%E5%8D%B3%E5%85%B4/

Twitter: @Chelsea_bubbly

Help! Beginner Vocabulary

How can you offer to help someone? Here’s a video (followed by a quiz) to help you out:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-mOSEW9B6c

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Color with Elmer Beginner Story Characters

Elmer the elephant is a beloved children’s book character. Here are some stories about Elmer, as well as coloring sheets to practice your (or your child’s) reading of color names:

https://www.misspandachinese.com/elmer-the-elephant-activities-for-kids/

Twitter: @MissPandaChines

HSK1 characters Beginner Characters

If you have just started learning Chinese, then knowing the most basic (HSK1) characters is a probably on your agenda. Here is a complete and categorized list of HSK1 characters:

https://chinesefor.us/hsk1-character-list-hsk-test-level-1-characters/

Twitter: @chinese4us

Chinese table manners All Culture Food

Going out to eat in China? Have fun, but first review this list of table manners, to ensure you don’t embarrass yourself or your host:

http://www.tutormandarin.net/en/eat-chinese-table-manners/

Twitter: @MyTutorMandarin

Chinese surnames All History

What are the most common surnames in China, and what cultural dos and don’ts apply to Chinese names?

http://www.saporedicina.com/english/interesting-facts-about-chinese-names-and-surnames/

Wandering around Beginner Vocabulary

The word 逛 (guàng) means to wander or stroll, and is often used to describe walking around a major street, as described here:

https://themandarincornerblog.com/2017/07/03/you-really-want-to-visit-this-chinese-street/

Shopping festivals All Holidays

China has a growing number of “shopping festivals,” holidays decreed by online retailers whose interest is in selling more goods to you and your friends:

http://www.theworldofchinese.com/2017/07/the-twoc-guide-to-shopping-festivals/

Twitter: @WorldOfChinese

Chinese medicine All Culture

What do you know about Chinese medicine? Here’s a quick review of this ancient healing practice, still used in modern China:

http://www.tutormandarin.net/en/chinese-medicine-treatments-you-must-know/

Twitter: @MyTutorMandarin

Sci-fi movies Advanced Vocabulary

Like science fiction? Speak Chinese? If so, then watch one of these Chinese sci-fi movies:

http://www.theworldofchinese.com/2017/07/chinese-sci-fi-on-screen/

Twitter: @WorldOfChinese

Skeptoid Chinese Advanced Learning

Want to listen to interesting topics discussed at an advanced (adult, full-speed) level of Chinese? Skeptoid Chinese might be just what you’re looking for:

http://www.hackingchinese.com/advanced-listening-reading-skeptoid-chinese/

Twitter: @HackingChinese

Soft Lipa Intermediate Culture

Listen to this Chinese rap song, with characters and translation:

http://www.alllanguageresources.com/practice-materials-music-soft-lipa/

Nationalities Beginner Vocabulary

Here are some common expressions you can use to refer to Chinese residents, expats, and their foreigner friends (that’s us!):

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/discussing-nationalities-and-foreigners-in-chinese/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

The best horse Intermediate Story

A legend about finding a remarkable horse:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/15-2009-12-02-23-37-29/2882-2017-07-05-05-21-10

Twitter: @imandarinpod

All types of parents Beginner Story

A short story about different types of parents:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/14-2009-12-02-23-37-05/2885-2017-07-07-03-31-20

Twitter: @imandarinpod

Workplace expressions Intermediate Expressions

成语 (chéng yǔ) are four-character Chinese expressions. What are some expressions that you can use in your day-to-day work, with colleagues at the office? Here are some suggestions:

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24430/what-are-five-most-useful-or-common-chengyu-phrases-in-the-workplace

Why 大陸 (dà lù)? Intermediate Vocabulary

Why is mainland China known as 大陸 in so many Chinese-speaking places?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24393/why-is-mainland-china-referred-to-as-%e5%a4%a7%e9%99%b8-%e5%a4%a7%e9%99%b8

All by myself Beginner Vocabulary

We use 自己 (zì jǐ)

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24386/what-is-the-difference-between-the-two-characters-of-%e8%87%aa%e5%b7%b1

Mandarin Weekly #129

Image

Hi, there! This is Mandarin Weekly #129, a free newsletter read by more than 20,000 students of Chinese around the world.

If you enjoy Mandarin Weekly, please share it with others. And don’t forget to take advantage of our list of discounts for students of Chinese.

To receive Mandarin Weekly every Monday, sign up MandarinWeekly.com. Every Tuesday, we go up on Facebook, at http://facebook.com/MandarinWeekly, Medium, at http://medium.com/@mandarinweekly, and Twitter, at @MandarinWeekly.  Please like, share, and retweet us!

If you offer products or services aimed at students of Chinese, and want to sponsor one or more issues, then please contact Reuven at reuven@lerner.co.il.

Also: In the coming weeks, we’ll be launching Mandarin Weekly Plus, which will allow you to customize issues, such that you receive only the topics and levels you want. Look for details in coming editions of Mandarin Weekly!

Compliments Beginner Vocabulary Video

Do you know someone smart? Handsome? Beautiful? Here are some compliments you can give other people in Chinese:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SrYMuwdHUZc

Twitter: @chineseclass101

Picky eaters Beginner Story

Where do you want to eat? An easy question to ask, but a hard one to answer if you don’t like different cuisines and are on a strict budget:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/14-2009-12-02-23-37-05/2876-2017-06-27-06-56-55

Twitter: @imandarinpod

Celebrity quotes Intermediate Expressions Video

Chinese celebrities have contributed some interesting phrases and expressions to the language. Here are a number of them that you can learn to recognize, or perhaps even use parts of, in your conversations:

https://mandarinhq.com/2017/06/chinese-celebrity-quotes/

Twitter: @MandarinHQ

Journaling your progress All Learning

Do you keep a journal of what you are learning in Chinese? If so, then the techniques described here for using your journal to improve your learning even further might be useful:

https://www.writtenchinese.com/8-creative-ways-to-use-your-bullet-journal-for-language-learning/

Twitter: @WrittenChinese

Talk like a communist Intermediate Vocabulary Video

Regardless of what you think of the Chinese Communist Party, there’s no doubting their influence in China and the Chinese-speaking world. Take advantage of the “Chinese Communist Party Founding Day” celebrations to learn some relevant vocabulary:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JK0cPi670E

Twitter: @chineseclass101

Chinese puns Intermediate Culture

Do you like to make puns, and other jokes based on wordplay? (My family and students know all too well, that I do.) Chinese is full of possibilities for such humor, because of the language’s flexibility and many similar-sounding words:

http://www.tutormandarin.net/en/chinese-puns/

Twitter: @MyTutorMandarin

Apps to know Beginner Vocabulary

Does your phone have apps on it? If so, then can you describe those apps in Chinese? Here is your chance, with the following vocabulary:

http://www.e-putonghua.com/zone/index.php/2017/06/30/listen-these-apps-in-chinese/

Twitter: @eputonghua

How well do you know Chinese? All Learning

No matter what your Chinese level, you’ll be told by natives that your Chinese is “excellent.” But sometimes,

https://medium.com/@Maijax/how-to-translate-compliments-in-chinese-aka-the-five-levels-of-mandarin-fluency-49a870da644e

It wasn’t on purpose! Beginner Vocabulary Video

How can you apologize in Chinese? That’s a subject for another time. But how can you emphasize that you did something wrong unintentionally?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9A89qlaZEpc

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Improving your listening All Listening

It’s hard to learn to understand spoken Chinese, because of many different reasons. Here, we learn what all of those reasons are, as well as some ways to improve our listening comprehension:

http://www.iwillteachyoualanguage.com/chinese-listening-practice/

Hot pot, or not? All Vocabulary Food

Do you eat 火锅 (huǒ guō) when in China? If so, then it cannot be spicy, since there’s now a separate term, 麻辣烫 (má là tàng), to describe it. A linguistic and culinary dispute has ensued:

http://www.theworldofchinese.com/2017/06/hot-pot-or-malatang/

Twitter: @WorldOfChinese

Chinese soccer, a history Intermediate Culture

How long have people been playing soccer (“football” to those outside of the US)? Depending on how you count, it could be 2500 years, as described here:

http://viewofchina.com/ancient-chinese-soccer/

Twitter: @classicchina

Learning better with tasks All Learning

How can you learn Chinese best? Task-based learning has a great deal to offer:

http://www.hackingchinese.com/task-based-chinese-learning-teaching/

Twitter: @HackingChinese

Childhood songs Intermediate Listening Culture

Want to better understand Chinese culture, as well as the language? One good way is to listen to Chinese songs. Here are some useful ones fo ryou to hear and learn:

http://www.echineselearning.com/blog/jump-into-chinese-culture-by-learning-these-helpful-chinese-songs-part1

Twitter: @ECLSchool

A thrilling novel Advanced Reviews

Read a good (Chinese) book lately? This review of a new detective novel, 《死亡通知单:暗黑者》, should interest those looking for good fiction and to practice their Chinese:

https://themandarincornerblog.com/2017/07/01/is-this-chinas-most-intelligent-thriller/

Review: Chinese Zero to Hero Beginner Reviews

How well does the “Chinese Zero to Hero” course stack up? Pretty well, especially given the price:

http://www.alllanguageresources.com/review-online-course-chinese-zero-to-hero/

Asking “when” questions Beginner Video Grammar

How do you ask when something happened? Use 什么时候 (shén me shí hou):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpJ-vYzCNxg

Twitter: @ECLSchool

All about Chinese characters Advanced Characters

Chinese characters have been around for a long time, and have distinct characteristics. Here are some facts you might not know about them:

http://www.decodemandarinchinese.com/%e6%b1%89%e8%af%ad%e7%89%b9%e7%82%b9/

Twitter: @DecodeChinese

Lending money Intermediate Story

When a mother is sick with heart disease, and an expensive operation is necessary, how will a family pay for it?

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/14-2009-12-02-23-37-05/2879-2017-07-01-06-29-54

Twitter: @imandarinpod

Surname pronunciation Intermediate Pronunciation Characters

Some characters have more than one pronunciation. Is this also true for those characters that represent surnames?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24278/are-peoples-names-always-pronounced-the-same-in-mandarin

Different types of opening Intermediate Grammar

What is the difference between two words that mean “open,” 开放 (kāi fàng) and 开门 (kāi mén)?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24261/whats-the-difference-between-%E5%BC%80%E6%94%BE-k%C4%81i-f%C3%A0ng-and-%E5%BC%80%E9%97%A8-k%C4%81i-m%C3%A9n-which-both-mean-op

Not bad, or pretty good? Beginner Expressions

Does 不错 (bù cuò) mean “not bad,” “very good,” or somewhere in between?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24241/is-%E4%B8%8D%E9%94%99-used-only-to-mean-good-and-never-mean-not-bad

Everywhere Intermediate Expressions

How can you express the idea of “everywhere,” or “all over”?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24318/which-is-more-common-in-mandarin-%e5%9b%9b%e8%99%95-or-%e5%91%a8%e5%9c%8d

Mandarin Weekly #128

 

Image

Hi, there! This is Mandarin Weekly #128, a free newsletter read by more than 19,000 students of Chinese around the world.

If you enjoy Mandarin Weekly, please share it with others. And don’t forget to take advantage of our list of discounts for students of Chinese.

To receive Mandarin Weekly every Monday, sign up MandarinWeekly.com. Every Tuesday, we go up on Facebook, at http://facebook.com/MandarinWeekly, Medium, at http://medium.com/@mandarinweekly, and Twitter, at @MandarinWeekly.  Please like, share, and retweet us!

If you offer products or services aimed at students of Chinese, and want to sponsor one or more issues, then please contact Reuven at reuven@lerner.co.il.

Chinese-learning app roundup All Reviews

There are lots of apps for your phone and tablet that can help you to learn (or just improve) your Chinese. Which ones should you use?

http://www.alllanguageresources.com/best-apps-learn-chinese/

Hard sounds Beginner Pronunciation Video

Some sounds in Chinese are hard for non-native speakers to say. Here are some of them, along with hints for saying them correctly:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBEIyohUO7s

Twitter: @chineseclass101

Useful expressions All Expressions

Want to sound more native? Including traditional Chinese idioms into your speech can help. Here are some especially useful ones, many with parallels in Western speech:

https://www.writtenchinese.com/15-of-the-most-popular-idioms-in-chinese/

Twitter: @WrittenChinese

Confusing grammar Intermediate Grammar

A number of grammar patterns seems similar when you first start to speak Chinese, but are actually used differently. Here are some commonly confused patterns, and when they should be used:

http://www.digmandarin.com/two-commonly-confused-chinese-grammar-structures.html

Twitter: @DigMandarin

Into the haze! Intermediate Learning

A new game, “Into the haze,” has you trying to find your brother after a disaster occurs in your city. The catch? You need to use Chinese to communicate. Play this game, and you’ll not just be having fun, but also improving your Chinese:

http://www.hackingchinese.com/haze-new-text-adventure-game-chinese-learners/

Twitter: @HackingChinese

Starter questions Beginner Vocabulary

Want to strike up a conversation in Chinese, but aren’t sure quite what to say? Here are some questions you can ask — although I must say, some of them seem a bit personal, at least to me:

http://mychinesereading.com/chinese-questions/

Awkward! Intermediate Grammar Video

Have you ever found that when speaking Chinese, the locals give you a funny look, understanding what you meant but being mildly surprised that you would say things that way? In this lesson, you can learn how to soften your speech and make it more polite:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9vmz9p2wG4

Twitter: @ChinesePod

Reading app shootout All Reviews

If you want to improve your reading in Chinese, then there are three apps (Du Chinese, The Chairman’s Bao, and Decipher Chinese) that you might consider. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each? Note that the first two have sponsored Mandarin Weekly in the past:

http://www.alllanguageresources.com/du-chinese-vs-tcb-vs-decipher/

Apps for traveling in China All Reviews Travel

If you’re planning to travel to (or in) China, then you might want to install a few apps before you leave. Here is a roundup of the best apps for travelers:

http://www.saporedicina.com/english/best-apps-travel-china/

40 easy characters Beginner Characters

New to Chinese? Here are 40 easy characters (and words) that you can learn right away:

http://www.tutormandarin.net/en/40-easy-chinese-characters/

Twitter: @MyTutorMandarin

Bottoms up! All Vocabulary

Planning to go out for a drink with friends? Or with colleagues? Here is a guide to what, and how, you can drink in China — with a particular emphasis on the “how,” given the unwritten rules of etiquette that you should observe:

https://www.yoyochinese.com/blog/Ultimate-Guide-Drinking-China

Twitter: @YoYoChinese

On the phone Beginner Vocabulary

Speaking on the phone is something we do all of the time — but the first time you do it in Chinese, it can be a bit daunting. Here are hints for how to speak on the phone, including vocabulary, etiquette, and how to ensure that you understand what they’re saying:

http://www.fluentu.com/blog/chinese/2017/06/23/chinese-phone-conversation/

Twitter: @FluentU

Little Apple All Culture Video

The song 小苹果 (xiǎo píng guǒ), or “Little Apple,” was a major hit in China a year or so ago. It’s still extremely catchy, with a funny (andn weird) video. Here is the music and video, if you haven’t enjoyed them yet — along with the lyrics, in characters and pinyin:

https://chinahopelive.net/2017/06/20/%e7%ad%b7%e5%ad%90%e5%85%84%e5%bc%9f-%e5%b0%8f%e8%8b%b9%e6%9e%9c-little-apple-by-the-chopstick-bros-%ef%bc%88english-%e6%b1%89%e5%ad%97-pinyin-lyrics%ef%bc%89

Twitter: @ChinaHopeLive

Ouch Beginner Vocabulary Video

Not feeling well? Here are some useful vocabulary words to describe your aches and pains:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvIsimcF7cI

Twitter: @ECLSchool

All by myself Intermediate Grammar

When you say 自己 (zì jǐ) in Chinese, are you referring to “myself,” “yourself,” or “themselves”? It all depends, as described here:

https://themandarincornerblog.com/2017/06/22/why-is-this-one-little-word-so-confusing/

Chinese money Beginner Vocabulary

What do Chinese banknotes look like, and how do you call them in Chinese?

http://www.e-putonghua.com/zone/index.php/2017/06/22/listen-look-at-the-following-rmb-cash-do-you-know-them/

Twitter: @eputonghua

In the family Beginner Vocabulary

How do you refer to relatives in Chinese? This chart (and audio) will help:

http://www.e-putonghua.com/zone/index.php/2017/06/21/listen-how-to-call-relatives-in-chinese/

Twitter: @eputonghua

Others Beginner Grammar Video

How can you say “a different” something — different person, different restaurant, different dress, or a different place?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fq2UDub6otM

Twitter: @ECLSchool

The eyes have it Intermediate Story

How can your eyes be open, but you’re still unable to see? This short story introduces a saying about keeping your eyes open to the truth:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/14-2009-12-02-23-37-05/2873-2017-06-23-03-10-56

Twitter: @imandarinpod

Learning from mistakes Intermediate Story

Even Confucius makes mistakes, but he learns from them:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/15-2009-12-02-23-37-29/2870-2017-06-20-09-31-43

Twitter: @imandarinpod

I’m so impressed Intermediate Grammar

How would you say that you’re so impressed by someone’s Chinese?

https://forum.wordreference.com/threads/impressed.3337406/

无奈 (wú nài) and 有奈 (yǒu nài)? Advanced Vocabulary

What do these mean, and how are they used in modern Chinese? (From the answers, I would seem that 有奈 isn’t actually a word at all.)

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24178/%e6%97%a0%e5%a5%88%e6%88%91%e7%88%b1%e4%bd%a0-how-to-use-%e6%97%a0%e5%a5%88-and-%e6%9c%89%e5%a5%88

Meaning of 气 (qì) Advanced Vocabulary

What does the character 气 mean in the word 贵族气?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24203/what-is-the-meaning-of-%e6%b0%94-in-%e8%b4%b5%e6%97%8f%e6%b0%94

Mandarin Weekly #127

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Hi, there! This is Mandarin Weekly #127, a free newsletter read by more than 19,000 students of Chinese around the world.

If you enjoy Mandarin Weekly, please share it with others. And don’t forget to take advantage of our list of discounts for students of Chinese.

To receive Mandarin Weekly every Monday, sign up MandarinWeekly.com. Every Tuesday, we go up on Facebook, at http://facebook.com/MandarinWeekly, Medium, at http://medium.com/@mandarinweekly, and Twitter, at @MandarinWeekly.  Please like, share, and retweet us!

If you offer products or services aimed at students of Chinese, and want to sponsor one or more issues, then please contact Reuven at reuven@lerner.co.il.

The fifth tone All Pronunciation

We normally talk about four tones in Chinese, but there are actually five. What is the fifth, or “neutral,” tone, and how are we to pronounce it?

https://www.writtenchinese.com/how-to-use-the-5th-chinese-tone/

Twitter: @WrittenChinese

How long must you study? All Learning

How long do you need to learn Chinese before it is useful? This is a hard question to answer, because there’s no one way to respond. But here are some thoughts about what is necessary, and what you can expect to accomplish:

http://www.hackingchinese.com/long-study-chinese-make-useful/

Twitter: @HackingChinese

Pronouncing e, ü, üe Beginner Pronunciation Video

Three vowel sounds (e, ü, and üe) are often hard for non-natives to pronounce. Here is some practice on this subject:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQc_RyWZ9OY

Twitter: @chineseclass101

Du Chinese review All Reviews

Looking to improve your Chinese reading skills? Du Chinese, an app that helps you to practice (and which sometimes sponsors Mandarin Weekly) is reviewed here:

http://www.alllanguageresources.com/du-chinese-review/

Basic introductions Beginner Story

Here’s a short dialogue from the introductions at a business meeting:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/14-2009-12-02-23-37-05/2868-2017-06-18-05-08-44

Twitter: @imandarinpod

The evolution of 几 (jī) Beginner Characters

How did the character 几 evolve over time, how did it get its current meaning(s), and which characters include it as a component?

http://www.decodemandarinchinese.com/%e5%87%a0-a-long-narrow-table/

Twitter: @DecodeChinese

You want how much?!? Intermediate Travel Culture

You can often haggle over the price of things in China, at least in the markets. (Although I’ve also successfully bargained at government-owned tourist shops, much to my great surprise.) How does bargaining work, and what are some tips to make it less stressful and more successful?

http://www.digmandarin.com/bargaining-in-china.html

Twitter: @DigMandarin

Visiting 昆明 (kūn míng) All Travel

The city of 昆明, in China’s southwest, contains many interesting things to see, as this article describes:

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/72-hours-in-kunming-part-one/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

Bento boxes for lunch Intermediate Vocabulary

How 便当 (biàn dāng), known as “Bento boxes,” became popular in Taiwan:

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/how-bento-became-a-taiwanese-staple/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

I’m so annoyed! Intermediate Vocabulary Video

Have you ever been annoyed? Of course. But have you ever told others that you’re annoyed in Chinese? This video show how to express your agitation:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmaSt1NIfVc

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Rental bikes Beginner Vocabulary

If you have traveled to China lately, you have almost certainly seen the huge number (and variety) of brightly colored rental bikes. Here is some history and a description of such bikes, along with some vocabulary to describe them:

http://www.echineselearning.com/blog/the-kingdom-of-bicycles-is-back

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Going to 山西 (Shān xī) All Travel

The province of shan xi isn’t too far from Beijing, and offers many interesting things to see:

http://www.saporedicina.com/english/travel-to-shanxi/

The story of King Midas Advanced Story

The ancient (Greek) story of King Midas and the golden touch, in Chinese:

http://www.alllanguageresources.com/chinese-practice-intermediate-golden/

The caves of 敦煌 (Dūn huáng) Advanced Story

A story about caves containing ancient paintings:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/13-2009-12-02-23-35-40/2866-2017-06-15-12-40-34

Twitter: @imandarinpod

I used to know it Intermediate Grammar

How would you say that you used to know something, but that you’ve since forgotten it?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24168/is-the-sentence-%e6%88%91%e7%9f%a5%e9%81%93%e5%ae%83-%e4%bd%86%e6%98%af%e6%88%91%e5%bf%98%e4%ba%86-unnatural

Excuse me Beginner Expressions

How would you say “excuse me” in Chinese? The answer, of course, depends on the context:

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24163/how-do-i-say-excuse-me

Families and family members Beginner Vocabulary

How would you say a “family member” in Chinese?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24161/different-terms-for-family-and-family-member

欢喜 (huān xǐ) vs. 快乐 (kuài lè) Intermediate Vocabulary

Both 欢喜 and 快乐 represent happiness. When is each used?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24132/what-is-the-difference-between-%e6%ac%a2%e5%96%9c-and-%e5%bf%ab%e4%b9%90

Mandarin Weekly #126

Image

Hi, there! This is Mandarin Weekly #126, a free newsletter read by more than 19,000 students of Chinese around the world.

If you enjoy Mandarin Weekly, please share it with others. And don’t forget to take advantage of our list of discounts for students of Chinese.

To receive Mandarin Weekly every Monday, sign up MandarinWeekly.com. Every Tuesday, we go up on Facebook, at http://facebook.com/MandarinWeekly, Medium, at http://medium.com/@mandarinweekly, and Twitter, at @MandarinWeekly.  Please like, share, and retweet us!

If you offer products or services aimed at students of Chinese, and want to sponsor one or more issues, then please contact Reuven at reuven@lerner.co.il.

Share us with your friends:

When and where Intermediate Grammar

How can you indicate hoping vs. intention vs. action, and other nuanced differences in Chinese?

http://www.e-putonghua.com/zone/index.php/2017/06/05/listen-131/

Twitter: @eputonghua

Going out to dinner Intermediate Vocabulary Video

You go out to a restaurant, and want to order. What do you say? Here’s a list of useful words and phrases:

https://chelseabubbly.com/2017/06/07/conversation-in-the-restaurant-common-chinese-for-dining-out/

Twitter: @Chelsea_bubbly

Chinese movie titles All Vocabulary

Western movies are shown in China, but their names are often a bit different than you might expect. Here is a roundup of recent films being screened in China, and how the locals refer to them:

http://www.theworldofchinese.com/2017/06/chinese-translations-of-upcoming-movies/

Twitter: @WorldOfChinese

Codenames for learning Chinese All Learning

The game “Codenames” isn’t meant for learning Chinese, but it can easily be adapted to help you learn while also having fun:

http://www.hackingchinese.com/playing-codenames-learn-chinese/

Twitter: @HackingChinese

You’re in good hands Beginner Vocabulary

The character 手 (shǒu) means “hand,” but it can be used for much more than just describing those things at the ends of our arms:

https://themandarincornerblog.com/2017/06/05/this-word-is-super-handy/

Meaningless characters? All Characters

Those of us learning Chinese are often interested in the origin story of characters, or of their meanings. But perahps they don’t really have meanings — and perhaps this doesn’t matter?

http://www.sinosplice.com/life/archives/2017/06/07/brendan-on-the-meaninglessness-of-chinese-characters

It’s viral Intermediate Characters Vocabulary

The character 传 (chuán) has to do with passing along or transferring something, whether it’s a tradition or a virus:

http://www.theworldofchinese.com/2017/06/on-the-character-%e4%bc%a0/

Twitter: @WorldOfChinese

Woo hoo! Beginner Expressions Video

How can you express excitement in Chinese? Here are some useful phrases:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Redsh8gecr8

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Dragon Boat festival Beginner Holidays

Dragon Boat festival took place a few weeks ago, but it’s not too late to learn about this holiday, including the special 粽子 (zòng zi) that everyone eats:

https://chinesepod.com/blog/celebrating-dragon-boat-festival-china/

Twitter: @ChinesePod

How to pray Beginner Culture

China has many temples, and if you go to visit one, you’re likely to encounter people praying. What are they saying and doing, and how can you participate (if you want)?

http://www.tutormandarin.net/en/pray-chinese-temple/

Twitter: @MyTutorMandarin

How are you feeling? Beginner Vocabulary

Not feeling well? That’s too bad — but maybe you can find a way to express that in Chinese:

http://www.tutormandarin.net/en/ask-health-chinese/

Twitter: @MyTutorMandarin

Pros and cons — of Didi Intermediate Expressions Video

弟弟出行 () is the equivalent of Uber in China, allowing you to order a taxi to and from anywhere. What are the pros and cons of using it? Hear from local Chinese residents, as they demonstrate talking about pros and cons:

https://mandarinhq.com/2017/06/talking-pros-cons-in-chinese/

Twitter: @MandarinHQ

Travel superstitions All Travel Culture

Chinese culture is full of superstitions and traditions having to do with luck, spirits, and gods. Here are some of the most common things you’ll find Chinese people doing when they are away from home:

http://www.digmandarin.com/chinese-travel-superstitions.html

Twitter: @DigMandarin

Chinese kitchens Intermediate Vocabulary

What’s in your kitchen? Probably some appliances, as well as a sink and stove. Here’s a vocabulary list that will let you describe your kitchen, including Chinese-style items that you might not have:

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/using-chinese-in-the-kitchen/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

Listening comprehension Intermediate Listening

How well can you listen to a story, and then answer questions based on it? Here is a collection of many such stories and questions; you can listen (and watch) to check and improve your comprehension:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYNaJRefhSg

Twitter: @chineseclass101

Useful idioms Intermediate Expressions

Here are some common and useful expressions you can use to spice up your Chinese conversations:

http://blogs.transparent.com/chinese/5-more-awesome-chinese-idioms/

Twitter: @ChineseLanguage

Payment in China All Culture

If you haven’t visited China lately, you’ve missed a revoluation in payment: Everyone is using their phones to pay for . . . well, just about everything. Here’s more on the subject, including useful vocabulary to discuss it:

http://www.echineselearning.com/blog/mobile-payments-make-it-impossible-to-rob-a-store-in-china

Twitter: @ECLSchool

Get an agent Advanced Story

Renting a house? Maybe an agent can help:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/16-2009-12-02-23-37-52/2859-2017-06-07-04-13-41

Twitter: @imandarinpod

Shopping list Beginner Story

Going shopping? Here’s a story about someone prparing a list:

http://www.imandarinpod.com/hoola/index.php/podcasts/14-2009-12-02-23-37-05/2863-2017-06-12-01-14-27

Twitter: @imandarinpod

When 好 (hǎo) means “very” Beginner Grammar

One of the first words you probably learned in Chinese is 好. But it means more than just “good” — it can also mean “very”:

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24056/why-do-we-have-%e5%a5%bd-in-translation-of-youre-beautiful

Voltage Advanced Pronunciation

压电 (gāo yā diàn) is “voltage” in Chinese. The Pinyin shows that 压 is first tone, but how strictly is that adhered to?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24079/what-is-the-correct-tone-for-%e5%8e%8b-in-%e9%ab%98%e5%8e%8b%e7%94%b5-high-voltage-and-%e4%bd%8e%e5%8e%8b%e7%94%b5-low-voltage

When the sun is out Intermediate Grammar

If you’re fasting during the Muslim month of Ramadan, then you don’t eat when the sun is out. How would you describe this in Chinese?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24065/does-%e5%87%ba%e5%a4%aa%e9%98%b3%e6%97%b6%e5%80%99%e4%b8%8d%e8%83%bd%e5%90%83%e9%a5%ad-ch%c5%ab-t%c3%a0iy%c3%a1ng-sh%c3%adh%c3%b2u-b%c3%b9n%c3%a9ng-ch%c4%abf%c3%a0n-express-i-cant-eat-when-the

Walk this way Advanced Grammar

How should you use 由此 (yóu cǐ)?

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/24044/how-is-%e7%94%b1%e6%ad%a4-y%c3%b3uc%c7%90-herefrom-used

No parking Intermediate Vocabulary

How do you say “no parking”? And how is that different from “no stopping”? The answer depends on where you are, and where you’re from:

https://chinese.stackexchange.com/questions/23995/whats-the-difference-between-%e5%81%9c%e8%bd%a6-t%c3%adngch%c4%93-and-%e6%b3%8a%e8%bd%a6-b%c3%b3ch%c4%93-which-both-seem-to-me