How to Wish Chinese New Year: 45 Meaningful Greetings and Wishes

Source The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most celebrated holidays in the world. It marks the start of the lunar calendar and is a time for family reunions, festive Chinese New Year celebrations, and expressing well wishes for the upcoming year. The holiday is deeply tied to […]

26 Famous Chinese Poems With English Translation: History & Themes

Chinese poetry is an ancient and influential art form with a history that spans thousands of years. These poems are revered for their beauty, emotional depth, and wisdom. Often reflecting values, emotions, and philosophies unique to Chinese society, poetry has been a significant cultural touchstone throughout China’s history. Through its poetic verses, we gain insight […]

Chinese Stroke Order: 10 Rules, Techniques, Common Mistakes, Tips

Understanding Chinese stroke order is fundamental for mastering the formation of Chinese characters. For both traditional Chinese characters and simplified Chinese characters, the correct stroke order lays the foundation for clear, legible writing. Learning the proper sequence in which strokes should be written not only improves the appearance of your handwriting but also aids in […]

What is HSK? Understanding the Chinese Proficiency Test

In an increasingly interconnected world, learning languages is not just a skill but a gateway to new cultures, opportunities, and personal growth. For those seeking to master the Chinese language, the HSK test (Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǎoshì, 汉语水平考试) has emerged as the official yardstick for assessing Chinese proficiency. This internationally recognised test is widely accepted as […]

8 Ways to Say “What is Your Name” in Chinese

Woman smiling while talking

Learning how to ask “What is your name?” in Chinese is a crucial step when engaging in social interactions, whether casual or formal. In this article, we will explore eight ways to ask someone their name in Chinese, covering various levels of formality and contexts. By the end, you will understand how to start a […]

Number in Chinese: Learn How to Read, Write and Count 1-100+

Chinese caligraphy

Learning Chinese numbers offers various benefits, making it an essential skill for anyone interested in Mandarin Chinese. Understanding numbers in Chinese enhances communication, whether travelling in China or interacting with Chinese people every day. Knowing how to count and use Chinese numerals allows more accessible exploration through markets, restaurants, and public transportation. Chinese numerals are […]

30 Common Chinese Idioms You Must Know: Types, Guide & History

Chinese characters written on a paper

Chinese idioms, known as “chengyu” (成语), are an integral part of the Chinese language, offering a glimpse into Chinese culture and history. These idioms, typically composed of four Chinese characters, often derive from ancient literature, historical events, or philosophical musings, encapsulating profound wisdom and cultural values in just a few words. For learners, understanding these […]

3 Ways to Say Happy Birthday in Chinese: Formal and Informal

Birthday card

In Chinese culture, birthdays are significant occasions filled with tradition and symbolism. From formal greetings like “祝你生日快乐” (Zhù nǐ shēngrì kuàilè) to casual Chinese birthday wishes of “生日快乐” (Shēngrì kuàilè), the language of celebration reflects a heartfelt desire for happiness and prosperity. Traditional customs such as longevity noodles and red-dyed eggs symbolise longevity and good […]

Exploring Ways to Express Sleep in Chinese Language

Physical Class

In Mandarin, the word for “sleep” is “睡觉” (shuì jiào). The concept of sleeping is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture, with a history of cultural practices and linguistic expressions highlighting its importance. The phrase “晚安” (wǎn ān), meaning “good night,” is commonly used when bidding someone farewell before bedtime. Additionally, expressions such as “入睡” (rù […]

12 Ways to Say “Thank You” in Chinese for Various Situations

Thank you lettering

In Chinese culture, expressing gratitude is an integral part of social interaction and giving respect and appreciation. It means acknowledging the kindness given between individuals. Mandarin Chinese, a widely spoken language in China, has numerous ways to say thank you in different contexts. While “xiè xie” (谢谢) is the most common phrase for saying “thank […]