Among these courses is the AP Chinese Language and Culture course, a unique program that combines Chinese language skills with cultural understanding. This course not only aims to enhance students’ Chinese language proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, but also immerses them in the cultural, social, and historical aspects of Chinese-speaking communities. The course aims to enhance language proficiency through a variety of authentic resources and real-world tasks. It’s an ideal choice for students interested in deepening their understanding of Chinese language and culture and gaining valuable skills for global communication, all while earning college credit.

• AP Chinese Course Objectives
• AP Chinese Course Content and Learning Resources
• AP Chinese Exam Format
• Preparing for the AP Chinese Course and Exam
  • Prerequisites for AP Chinese Course
  • Tips for Preparing for the AP Chinese Exam
  • Recommended platforms for AP Chinese exam preparation
  • Recommended books for AP Chinese exam preparation

AP Chinese Course Objectives

The AP Chinese Language and Culture course is designed with specific objectives to enhance students’ Mandarin Chinese proficiency and deepen their understanding of Chinese culture. The primary goal is to develop strong language skills across listening, speaking, reading, and writing, aiming to reach a high level of fluency.

AP Chinese’s Four Key Language Skills

In addition to the language skills, cultural understanding and communication goals are central. Students are immersed in learning about Chinese traditions, societal norms, and cultural practices, fostering an appreciation for cultural diversity and global perspectives. Furthermore, the course emphasizes the importance of effective and appropriate communication within Chinese-speaking environments. By engaging with various real-life contexts and interactive activities, students improve their ability to express themselves clearly in Mandarin. Preparing for the AP exam is also a key focus, as the course equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed.

AP Chinese Culture Goals

Through this comprehensive approach, the AP Chinese Language and Culture course aims to prepare students not only for academic success but also for meaningful engagement with the Chinese-speaking world.

AP Chinese Course Content and Learning Resources

A wide range of topics are covered in the AP Chinese Language and Culture course, each designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of various aspects of Chinese society and culture. Topics include contemporary life, where students explore current issues and trends in Chinese-speaking communities; families and communities, which explores family structures, social relationships, and community values; science and technology, focusing on advancements and their impact on society; and global challenges, where students discuss environmental, political, and social issues facing the world today.

In terms of materials, the course utilizes a diverse array of texts and resources to support learning. Students engage with authentic materials such as newspaper articles, literary works, and online media, providing a real-world context to their studies. Audio and video materials, including news broadcasts, films, and interviews, are also integral to the course, offering students exposure to various dialects and aspects of spoken Chinese.

Additionally, immersive activities and multimedia presentations are used to enhance language skills and cultural understanding. Interactive tools like language learning apps and online platforms play a significant role in enhancing listening and speaking skills. Websites offering Chinese news, cultural articles, and language exercises are commonly used for up-to-date and relevant content. For writing practice, students might use blogs or forums to engage in discussions in Chinese.

Online resources like Quizlet offer flashcards and study games for vocabulary building, while websites like MandarinBean.com, Du Chinese and BBC Chinese provide additional reading and listening practice.

These varied resources ensure that students not only learn the language but also gain a comprehensive insight into the Chinese-speaking world.

AP Chinese Exam Format

The AP Chinese Language and Culture exam is divided into two main sections: Multiple Choice and Free Response. Each section assesses listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. It is designed to assess students’ ability to understand and use Chinese in a range of contexts, mirroring the kind of proficiency expected in real-world situations.

Preparing for the AP Chinese Course and Exam

Prerequisites for AP Chinese Course

To better prepare for the challenges of the AP Chinese Language and Culture course, allowing students to fully engage with and benefit from the advanced material, some prerequisites are necessary.

1). Chinese language foundation

A solid foundation in Mandarin Chinese is essential. Students should have skills equivalent to at least two to three years of high school Chinese study. This includes a strong grasp of basic grammar, vocabulary, and the ability to comprehend and communicate simple ideas in Chinese.

As this course involves extensive reading and writing, at least 1,000 to 1,500 Chinese characters are required.

The course also includes audio materials in various dialects and accents. Therefore, students should also be able to engage in basic conversations and express their thoughts in spoken Chinese.

2). Cultural Understanding

A basic understanding of Chinese culture, traditions, and societal norms is beneficial. This knowledge supports the cultural components of the course and helps in understanding context.

3). Study Skills and Motivation

The AP Chinese course is rigorous. Students should have strong study habits, time management skills, and a high level of motivation to learn and excel in the course. Actually, this is not only a must for AP Chinese, but for all courses.

Tips for Preparing for the AP Chinese Exam

1). Practice regularly

Consistency is key in language learning. Dedicate time each day to practice various skills like listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

For vocabulary expansion, regularly learn new words and phrases, utilizing tools like flashcards, apps, or online platforms for effective memorization.

Listening skills can be sharpened by engaging with Chinese audio materials, starting with simpler, slower content and gradually progressing to more complex, faster-paced dialogues.

Speaking practice is equally important. Joining language exchange groups or conversation clubs can greatly improve fluency, as regular interaction with native speakers or fellow learners offers practical speaking experience.

2). Use authentic materials

Engage with materials used by native speakers, such as Chinese newspapers, films, TV shows, and podcasts. This exposure helps in understanding real-world language use and cultural nuances.

3). Do more mock exams

Take practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format and time constraints of the AP exam. This helps in identifying areas for improvement and easing your test anxiety.

4). Immerse yourself in Chinese culture

Learn more about Chinese culture, history, and current events, not only from textbooks, but more from media, podcasts, newspapers, movies, etc.

5). Use study guides

Utilize AP Chinese study guides and textbooks that specifically prepare students for the exam format and content.

6). Seek feedback

For a more structured approach, consider working with a professional Chinese tutor. Regularly ask Chinese teachers or native speakers for feedback on your language use, pronunciation, and grammar. This approach is equally effective when it comes to writing.

Recommended platforms for AP Chinese exam preparation

Many platforms provide a range of comprehensive resources and tools beneficial for students preparing for the AP Chinese Language and Culture exam.

• Albert

Albert’s AP Chinese Language exam prep focuses on developing an understanding of Chinese language, culture, and contemporary society. It’s a resource for practicing and enhancing language proficiency along with cultural understanding.

• Stanford Online High School

This site offers a variety of print and online text and audio-visual materials to examine aspects of both traditional and modern Chinese culture. It’s useful for students looking to acquire vocabulary and characters and to sharpen listening, speaking, and composition skills.

• CTY

This resource provides a college-level challenge, covering topics typically found in a university course. It’s geared towards students in Grade 9 and above, offering extensive preparation for the AP Chinese Language and Culture exam.

• Aralia

Aralia focuses on strategies and knowledge necessary to attain a target score on the AP exam. It aids in developing proficiency in reading, translating, speaking, and analyzing Chinese, as well as quickly comprehending and responding to questions.

Recommended books for AP Chinese exam preparation

These books provide comprehensive coverage of the AP curriculum with exercises tailored to exam preparation.

• Integrated Chinese

• Barron’s AP Chinese Language and Culture Premium

• 5 Steps to a 5: AP Chinese Language and Culture

• Strive for a 5: Preparing for the AP Chinese Language and Culture Examination

Final Remarks

The AP Chinese Language and Culture course offers significant value and importance for students. Firstly, it provides an opportunity to earn college credit and achieve advanced standing in universities, potentially saving time and money. Beyond academic benefits, the course significantly enhances language proficiency. Students develop comprehensive skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Mandarin Chinese, which is invaluable in an increasingly globalized world.

Furthermore, the course deepens students’ understanding of Chinese culture, history, and societal norms, enriching their cultural knowledge and global awareness. This cultural immersion aids in fostering better communication and understanding in diverse environments. Additionally, mastering Chinese through this course opens doors to various career opportunities in international business, diplomacy, and more, as China plays a pivotal role in global affairs. The AP Chinese course, therefore, not only prepares students academically but also equips them with vital skills and insights for personal and professional growth in a multicultural world.

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In this article, we will present a handpicked selection of Mandarin Chinese phrasebooks, each carefully chosen to cater to different learning objectives and styles. From comprehensive guides for serious learners to colorful and interactive books for those seeking a more engaging learning experience, this list offers something for everyone. Our focus is not just on the breadth of phrases and vocabulary but also on the context and usage, ensuring that you can communicate effectively and authentically in various Mandarin-speaking settings.

Join us as we explore these varied phrasebooks, each a unique window into the world of Mandarin Chinese, and find the perfect fit for your Chinese learning journey.

• Chinese Phrasebooks for Travelers & Expats
• Chinese Phrasebooks for Beginners and Casual Chinese Learners
• Chinese Phrasebooks for Serious Chinese Learners
• Chinese Phrasebooks for Fun and Creative Chinese Learning

Chinese Phrasebooks for Travelers & Expats

Lonely Planet Mandarin Phrasebook

This is a comprehensive guide designed to enrich cultural experiences for travelers in China. The book is widely acclaimed for its relevance and utility, offering a vast array of Mandarin phrases and vocabulary that cater to various travel needs. Users appreciate its practicality, noting how it helps in ordering authentic street food, engaging in local games like mah jong, and even bargaining in markets. Its popularity is underscored by its status as a product of the world’s leading travel guide publisher, Lonely Planet, renowned for its reliable and user-friendly travel resources.

One of the standout features of the phrasebook is its inclusion of cultural tips and etiquette advice. The book also contains a comprehensive food section, which is particularly beneficial for travelers looking to explore China’s rich culinary landscape.

It is also available in an auditory format with a CD. This is especially beneficial for mastering pronunciation and understanding the spoken language’s nuances. The audio components assist travelers in ordering dishes, asking for directions, and engaging in conversations with locals, thereby deepening their immersion into the Chinese culture and language.

Rough Guide Mandarin Chinese Phrasebook

This is a comprehensive phrasebook tailored for travelers in China. It stands out for its user-friendly approach, providing clear guidelines on Mandarin pronunciation and tones, crucial for effective communication. The book also explores cultural nuances, offering dos and don’ts that are invaluable for travelers navigating diverse social situations in China. This focus on etiquette and cultural tips makes it more than just a language guide; it’s a window into understanding Chinese culture.

Beyond the basics, it contains over 5,000 words, covering a wide array of scenarios that a traveler might encounter – from booking hotel rooms to interacting in local markets. The Rough Guide series is known for its quick key word referencing, making it easy for users to find the phrases they need swiftly. The inclusion of practical information on making phone calls, using ATMs, and other travel essentials further adds to its appeal for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Chinese life and language. The audio is also free for readers to download and use.

DK Eyewitness Travel Phrase Book Mandarin Chinese

This practical phrasebook is packed with common Mandarin phrases and essential vocabulary, tailored for both leisure and business trips. Its organization by subjects like transportation, dining, shopping, and healthcare makes it incredibly user-friendly, allowing quick access to the information needed in various situations.

What sets this book apart is its blend of utility and visual appeal. It not only provides essential phrases for scenarios ranging from hotel stays to restaurant visits but also enhances the learning experience with word lists and vivid photographs. This approach not only simplifies the process of learning basic Mandarin phrases but also makes it more enjoyable. It is a highly recommended resource for anyone planning to navigate Mandarin-speaking environments, be it for travel or general language acquisition.

Survival Chinese (phrasebook & dictionary)

Authored by Boye Lafayette De Mente and Jiageng Fan, this phrasebook has been well-received for its user-friendly format and effectiveness. It stands out for its straightforward approach, offering the essential vocabulary and phrases necessary for various situations. It is especially useful for travelers and beginners in Mandarin who need to communicate effectively without in-depth knowledge of the language.

The book is designed to alleviate the stress and fear often associated with language barriers. Overall, “Survival Chinese” is more than just a phrasebook; it’s a companion for anyone looking to overcome the challenges of communicating in Mandarin, offering a blend of practical language tools and cultural insights​.

Instant Chinese: How to Express 1,000 Different Ideas with Just 100 Key Words and Phrases!

This book’s central concept is straightforward yet effective: by mastering just 100 carefully selected words and phrases, a learner can express a vast array of ideas, essentially communicating 1,000 different things. It seems an innovative approach to learning Mandarin Chinese. This method, crafted by author Boye Lafayette De Mente, is particularly beneficial for beginners or travelers who need to quickly pick up essential Mandarin without the complexity of learning a vast vocabulary.

The author’s selection focuses on words that are frequently used in everyday conversation, ensuring that learners spend their time effectively by focusing on practical and commonly used language. This approach not only simplifies the learning process but also accelerates the learner’s ability to communicate in Mandarin. The book’s premise is grounded in the belief that a small, well-chosen vocabulary is the key to effective communication, especially in situations where learners need to speak Mandarin instantly and with confidence.

Chinese Phrasebooks for Beginners and Casual Chinese Learners

BBC Mandarin Chinese Phrasebook and Dictionary

This resource is part of the BBC’s renowned series of phrasebooks and is available in various formats, including a Kindle edition and paperback. Its straightforward presentation and organization make it easy for users to quickly find and learn the phrases they need.

The phrasebook’s coverage of basic Mandarin words and phrases for common situations is designed to be accessible and practical. With a focus on real-world application, the guide ensures that users can communicate effectively in Mandarin in a range of settings, from asking for directions to ordering food. The book includes a small but comprehensive two-way dictionary, a pronunciation guide, and a menu reader, enhancing its usefulness for non-native speakers.

Chinese Phrases For Dummies

This is an accessible and practical guide for anyone looking to quickly pick up essential Chinese phrases. It is an excellent addition to the “Chinese for Dummies” series by Dr. Wendy Abraham  but stands strong as an independent resource. It’s tailored to offer hundreds of useful phrases right at the reader’s fingertips, enabling them to speak Chinese instantly in various everyday situations. The approach is straightforward and user-friendly, catering particularly to beginners who need to communicate effectively in Mandarin without delving into complex grammar or extensive vocabulary.

The phrasebook is well-received by its readers, who appreciate its simplicity and direct approach to language learning. It’s formatted in a way that’s easy to navigate, making it a handy tool for quick reference.

Easy Chinese Phrase Book

The “Easy Chinese Phrase Book: Over 1500 Common Phrases for Everyday Use and Travel” by Lingo Mastery is recognized for its practicality and effectiveness. This book caters particularly to beginners and travelers. It compiles more than 1,500 common phrases that are essential for daily communication and travel situations, making it an ideal tool for those new to Mandarin or those who have previously found language learning to be challenging.

What sets this phrase book apart is its focus on phrases that are most relevant and useful in real-life scenarios. This makes it not just a learning tool but also a handy companion for communication with Chinese speakers in various contexts – whether it’s mingling with friends, interacting with colleagues, or dealing with clients. Lingo Mastery has designed the book with the goal of helping language learners find the best expressions for everyday use in China.

It is available in multiple formats, including an Audible audiobook, making it accessible for different types of learners.

Crash Course Chinese

“Crash Course Chinese: 500+ Survival Phrases to Talk Like a Local” is an essential guide for anyone looking to quickly grasp essential Mandarin phrases. Authored by Celine Li, the book focuses on providing over 500 survival phrases that enable learners to communicate effectively in Mandarin, as if they were locals. This approach is particularly beneficial for beginners who need to speak Chinese confidently in a short period. The book promises to teach the reader to speak Chinese in hours, using phrases taught by a native speaker.

The phrasebook has garnered positive reviews from users who appreciate its straightforward, practical approach. It is designed to simplify the learning process, making it accessible for people with little to no background in Mandarin. This makes “Crash Course Chinese” a valuable resource for rapid language acquisition, especially for those who aim to speak Mandarin fluently and naturally in everyday contexts​.

Chinese Phrasebooks for Serious Chinese Learners

2000 Most Common Chinese Words in Context

“2000 Most Common Chinese Words in Context: Get Fluent & Increase Your Chinese Vocabulary with 2000 Chinese Phrases” is a comprehensive Mandarin Chinese language learning tool that stands out for its practical approach to vocabulary acquisition. This book is centered around the idea that mastering the most frequently used 2000 words in a language can significantly enhance learners’ understanding of it. According to studies mentioned in the book, knowing these words allows learners to comprehend a vast majority of what is used in everyday speech, as well as in non-fiction and fiction literature.

The book is highly praised for its inclusion of examples and the use of Pinyin, making it easier for learners to grasp pronunciation and usage. With its focus on the most essential vocabulary, the book is designed to be an effective learning tool for beginners and intermediate students of Mandarin. By concentrating on the most critical words and phrases, it offers a practical and efficient path to language mastery​.

Essential Mandarin Chinese Phrasebook & Dictionary

This phrasebook and dictionary combo aims to boost the confidence of its users in speaking Mandarin by providing practical language tools. It includes a variety of significant sentences for common situations such as meeting people, starting conversations, and responding to questions, making it a resource for both beginners and intermediate learners.

The book also features a basic guide to Chinese grammar and pronunciation, which is instrumental for learners to start speaking Mandarin effectively. The inclusion of both phrases and a dictionary component ensures that users have a comprehensive resource at their fingertips for navigating various conversational scenarios. Overall, it stands out as an essential tool for anyone looking to communicate with confidence in Mandarin, offering a blend of practical phrases and foundational language knowledge.

Chinese Phrasebooks for Fun and Creative Chinese Learning

Making Out in Chinese (Revised Edition)

This is a dynamic and engaging phrasebook that offers a unique perspective on learning Mandarin Chinese. This book is part of the “Making Out” series, which is known for its fun and accessible approach to language learning, particularly focusing on how languages are spoken on the street. It is specifically designed for informal situations, such as bars, parties, or any setting where understanding and using slang is beneficial.
The phrasebook is an excellent guide to contemporary Chinese that  is actually spoken in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei, and Singapore. It serves as a perfect introduction to everyday interactions in Chinese-speaking countries, encompassing not just standard phrases but also colorful slang that can enliven conversations and help learners sound more like a local. It is appreciated for its ability to make the learning process both enjoyable and comprehensive.

Dirty Chinese: Everyday Slang from “What’s Up?” to “F*%# Off!”

Authored by Matt Coleman, a University of Queensland Chinese Language graduate with six years of experience in China, this is a unique phrasebook that introduces the informal and street language of modern Chinese. It is tailored for those who wish to grasp the everyday slang that you wouldn’t typically learn in a formal language class. It covers a range of expressions from cool slang and funny insults to explicit terms and raw swear words, providing a real taste of how the language is used colloquially on the streets of China.

While the book is celebrated for its presentation of real-life slang usage in Mainland China and its effectiveness in enhancing communication in both professional and community settings, some readers have pointed out its structural shortcomings. The book is noted to provide words within sentences but lacks substantial context and a detailed explanation for each term, which some learners might find limiting in terms of gaining a deeper understanding of the language. It’s particularly useful for travelers, expatriates, or anyone interested in gaining a more holistic and street-level understanding of Mandarin Chinese.

Chinese Slanguage  / More Chinese Slanguage

“Chinese Slanguage: A Fun Visual Guide to Mandarin Terms and Phrases” by Mike Ellis is an innovative and engaging guide designed to make learning Mandarin Chinese fun and accessible. The book employs a unique method: it uses visual prompts and encourages readers to read English words aloud, which surprisingly transform into Mandarin phrases. This approach simplifies the language learning process and makes it more enjoyable, especially for casual learners.

This book goes beyond basic conversation to include phrases for medical or legal emergencies and terminology for hotels and airports. This wide range of content makes it a handy companion for travelers and anyone interested in getting a quick grasp of Mandarin for everyday situations.

But don’t take the pronunciation it presents seriously. If you really want to learn this language with a serious attitude, then choose formal resources that are  more reliable. Overall, this guide offers a fresh and enjoyable way to start speaking Mandarin, appealing to those who want to learn the language in a more relaxed and less formal manner​.

Chinese Picture Dictionary Coloring Book

This is a distinctive and engaging resource for learners of Mandarin, suitable for all ages. With over 1500 Chinese words and phrases, this book offers a creative and visual approach to language learning. The unique feature of this dictionary is its interactive design, combining language learning with coloring activities. As learners color the illustrations, they can simultaneously learn Mandarin words, presented in simplified Chinese characters and Pinyin, accompanied by English translations. This hands-on method is particularly appealing to visual learners and children, making language learning a more playful and enjoyable experience.

Users have appreciated the book’s ability to merge learning with an enjoyable activity, making it a fun way for both adults and children to learn Mandarin.

Mandarin Chinese Picture Dictionary: Learn 1,500 Key Chinese Words and Phrases

This is an innovative language learning tool that covers 1,500 of the most useful Mandarin Chinese words and sentences. Each entry is presented in Chinese characters, accompanied by Hanyu Pinyin pronunciation and English definitions, making it accessible for learners at all levels. The words are thoughtfully grouped into 38 different themes and topics, which help in contextual learning and make it easier for learners to remember and apply the vocabulary in relevant situations.

This resource is designed to make language learning more engaging than traditional phrasebooks. It is particularly suitable for beginners of all ages, including those preparing for AP and HSK exams, as the book includes online audio that complements the written material. The visual and auditory components combined make this picture dictionary a unique and effective tool for learning Mandarin Chinese. Its combination of visual illustrations, audio support, and thematic organization makes it a valuable tool for anyone interested in learning Mandarin, whether for academic purposes, personal interest, or practical use​.

A Final Word

The world of Mandarin Chinese is vast and diverse, just like the range of phrasebooks available to guide you through it. Each book in our list offers a unique approach to learning and using Mandarin, whether your goal is to navigate the streets of China with confidence, enrich your language skills for academic purposes, or simply enjoy the process of learning a new language in a creative and engaging way.

Remember, the key to mastering Mandarin, or any language, lies in finding resources that resonate with your personal learning style and objectives. By selecting a phrasebook that aligns with your needs, you’re setting yourself up for a more enjoyable and effective learning experience. So, whether you’re a visual learner drawn to picture dictionaries, a traveler in need of a practical guide, or a student preparing for a proficiency exam, there’s a phrasebook out there tailored just for you. Happy learning!

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Introduction

Why has tutoring shifted to online in recent years?

During the past three years, due to the effects of Covid, lots of language learners have switched from offline to online schooling. Yet, along with the easing of various restrictions in most areas, some learners have gone back to offline learning again, but most of them have decided to remain online. The same is true for Chinese language learning.

It’s easy to understand why an adult learner would choose online learning now. It’s more convenient and flexible. Learners can have their Chinese class out of town, even in other countries. It’s up to the learners to decide when to hold the class, such as during their lunch or early coffee break. And, especially for Chinese, there are few choices for parents and children to learn offline in their own town. If they want professional Chinese tutoring, they would prefer a native professional tutor. Online tutors come into their sights.

What are parent’s concerns with online tutoring?

But many parents are still worried if online tutoring is effective or sufficient for their children.

Children have their own needs and learning paces. Especially for younger kids, it’s a little hard to keep them facing a screen for a long time. After half an hour, they easily lose focus. And many parents don’t want their kids to have so much screen time in a day. No wonder why so many parents have concerns about online tutoring.

Actually, it depends on which subject they are taking. If it’s sports or playground activities, it’s really hard to keep it online. But if we are talking about language learning, then online tutoring is quite a viable choice.

The pros and cons

The benefits of learning Chinese with an online tutor

1. Online class schedules are often much more flexible than offline. You can decide when to take the class and adjust the schedule as you need.
2. No matter where the students are, the class can still be held. Parents don’t need to bring their children to the classroom. It’s quite time-saving. Without the added time of dropping and picking up kids from a physical classroom, parents’ have more time on their hands.   
3. It’s more convenient and easier to find a native professional Chinese teacher online who suits your children’s needs.
4. Online Chinese classes are affordable. It’s often much cheaper than offline classes.
5. Audio and video content online can be very enjoyable.
6. It’s okay to record online classes. Children can review the class again or practice any time after class at home.
7. If parents want, they are free to observe and be around when children take online classes in case they get distracted. Parents can also monitor the lesson quality..
8. With private online tutors, the study plan can be very personalized. They can even help with school homework or other special Chinese language requirements.

Potential issues of learning Chinese with an online tutor

1. During school years, children need more interaction with peers. Classroom time can provide them with a neutral environment for social interaction and real communication. If the class goes online, then real-life interactions get harder.
2. Online language classes need a quiet place and a stable internet connection. If you can’t assure these basic requirements, then your children cannot learn as easily.
3. For younger kids, it’s easy to get bored or distracted if the online class is not very appealing to them. And sometimes the tutor can’t find out what they are thinking or doing immediately.
4. Too much screen time is not ideal or healthy for children.
5. Children have an easier time developing a relationship with offline tutors, which may help cultivate enthusiasm for learning. But online tutors it may take a long time and a lot of patience to get the same result.

What to pay attention to when choosing an online tutor or class

It truly depends on what your needs are and what circumstances you are in. For children, if you are able to keep learning in a classroom, that would be terrific. They need more interactions and lessons with language partners and tutors. In addition to social interaction skills such as cooperation, empathy, and leadership, if you focus more on the language learning itself, then here are some tips.

1. You need to verify the teacher’s credentials

What is the tutor’s teaching experience? How long have they been teaching Chinese? Have they taught children before? Is this tutor familiar with online teaching? Does this tutor have related Mandarin teaching degrees and certifications? Are they a native mandarin Chinese speaker?

Check out more detailed suggestions to help you find an excellent Chinese teacher: How to Find a Really Good Chinese Teacher to Guide Your Learning

2. Make sure your children are learning content that fits their language skills and level

If your children are beyond the current classroom level, then they might be very comfortable in the lessons, but the problem is that it’s hard to continue progressing and keep going. On the contrary, if your children are learning content beyond their own level, then it’s very easy to get tired of learning the language, and they may lack confidence. Private tutoring can help with this problem. No matter whether you want an online tutor or an offline tutor, the right teacher can make a very personalized study plan, which will help your children to progress at the right speed.    

3. The tutor’s ratings and reviews are very important

Ratings and reviews from other students and organizations are very important for you to consider. The tutor’s reliability, patience, clarity, and accuracy are the factors you should pay the most attention to.

Some online schools have their top recommended tutors. You can ask for their professional advice and tell them your biggest needs. These schools often have various tutors who have different strong points which could help them adapt to each child’s special requirements. 

If your friends have Chinese tutors for their children who have excellent feedback, then don’t hesitate to ask for their recommendation. Feel free to ask your friends about your concerns.  

4. An independent freelance teacher VS A teacher who works for a school

Thanks to the internet, there are countless options for you all around the world when you want something, and it’s the same with Chinese tutors. There are mainly two kinds of teachers online.

One is working as a freelancer who often posts themself on language exchange websites, such as italki, preply, verbalplanet, etc. Teaching Chinese is often their part-time job or hobby. Most of them are Chinese native speakers. Some of them also have professional Chinese language teaching certifications, some don’t. They are often quite flexible, but you need to book the class every single time. If you are looking for a spoken Chinese partner, then this is a good choice. You can communicate a different native speaker in every single class. And some of them are with quite low cost. If you have limited access to Chinese immersion, this can help teach more about Chinese people. 

The other is working for an online language school and is often a professional mandarin Chinese teacher with rich teaching experience. The schools often have free trial classes so that learners can find a good fit, but after that, you can’t only buy one class at a time. There are often different class packages, and you’ll need to ask for more details about the school’s class services. The advantages are obvious: parents don’t need to worry about the class plan, reliability, and consistency. It’s easy for parents to communicate with the teacher and administers and keep track of their children’s progress.

Learning Mandarin Online: Teacher Vs. School

5. Online live class VS Recorded video class

When choosing online tutoring, you may find that there are not only one-on-one live Chinese tutors, but also systematically recorded video classes. Generally speaking, recorded video classes can be a supplement for children. It’s okay for reviewing or practicing content after class. Live class tutors are more suitable for children since the real tutor can draw their attention instantly and have more interactions during the class. The tutor can adjust the lesson content and teaching style along with the children’s feedback. If there are any questions or problems that come up, the tutor can explain immediately.  

Chinese learning resources for kids

Amazing Books for Kids Learning Chinese

In addition to a Chinese tutor, Chinese learning materials are also very essential and necessary. For kids, learning materials need to meet higher requirements and different needs, for example if it’s informative, entertaining, appealing, suitable, etc. It has to guarantee that kids won’t be bored while acquiring the language knowledge.  

YCT (Youth Chinese Test)

YCT is the Youth Chinese Test, which was launched to encourage young second language learners to learn Chinese and test their current proficiency. You can find the corresponding test structure, learning books, vocabulary list, sample tests and other resources you may need here.  

GCSE / IGCSE Chinese

If you are based in the UK, Singapore, Canada, Australia, or India, then GCSE and IGCSE are there for your children to develop their Chinese skills and understand Chinese culture. There are more details about the assessment themes and intros here.  

Chinese Flashcards for kids

Chinese songs for kids

Chinese poems for kids

These Chinese word flashcards, songs, and poems are all supplemental learning materials for kids. These materials can be an introduction to the Chinese language, which might help motivate their passion for learning or broaden their understanding and interest in this language and culture.   

Parental Strategies in Supporting Their Children to Learn Chinese

You can never just leave the children to their tutors only. Parents are always the key to children’s studies. When it comes to learning the Chinese language, some parents feel lost and confused about tutoring and parenting. They have no idea where to start and how to deal with their studies. There are also some parental strategies for you to support your kids’ learning.

Conclusion

As with the world becomes more and more digitized, it’s inevitable to let internet-based learning step into your children’s study, no matter whether it’s the main method or just a supplement. For Chinese language learning, online tutoring is a great opportunity to meet professional native teachers from all around the world, which opens your choices widely. The variety of learning materials online can enrich their learning content and broaden their knowledge too. Learning with an online Chinese tutor is more effective and convenient than you may have thought. To cater to children’s learning needs and their special requirements, it’s best to use online and offline learning resources together.

Common online class expressions (PDF download)

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The formation of words is strongly linked to culture; it reflects the mindset of Chinese speakers. So here is a guide to several frequently-used prefixes and suffixes to help you explore this part of Chinese. We hope this guide will help your understanding of Chinese words and culture.

• Prefixes in Chinese
• Suffixes in Chinese

Prefixes in Chinese

In Chinese, prefixes are a grammatical element added to the beginning of a word, such as 老，小，阿, 第，and 初. These prefixes must be combined with other characters to form a word and can’t be used alone.

For clarity and convenient reading, a chart of prefixes is provided below.

Prefix in Chinese

老 lǎo

* Original meaning and use:

As an adjective, 老 means old or elder and can be used as a predicate in a sentence or to describe other elements.

e.g.

爸爸妈妈老了。（Bàbɑ māmɑ lǎo le.）My parents are old.

老人 (lǎo rén) old man

老奶奶 (lǎo nǎinɑi) old woman

* As a prefix in Chinese:

老is a dummy prefix. In a word, it either has no meaning or indicates respect, an amiable feeling or  seniority among a group of people.

Rule：

Goes before animal names, people, monosyllabic family names or numbers.

Structure：

老 + animal name/person/monosyllabic family name/number

i. no meaning

老虎 (lǎo hǔ)  tiger

老鼠（lǎo shǔ）mouse

老鹰（lǎo yīnɡ）eagle

ii. respect

老师 (lǎoshī.)  teacher

老板（lǎobǎn）boss; shopkeeper

iii. amiable feeling

老张啊，好久不见！(Lǎo zhānɡ a, hǎo jiǔ bú jiàn!) Zhang, long time no see! 

老公（lǎoɡōnɡ）husband

老婆（lǎopó）wife

iv. seniority

老大（lǎo dà）big brother；big cheese

老二（lǎo’èr）the second child；ranking second

老三（lǎo sān）the third child; ranking third

小 xiǎo

* Original meaning and use:

As an adjective, 小 means young or small and can be used as a predicate in a sentence or to describe other elements.

e.g.

这件衣服太小了。（Zhè jiàn yīfu tài xiǎo le.）This clothes is too small.

小朋友 (xiǎo pénɡyou) little boy or girl

小孩子 (xiǎo háizi) little child

* As a prefix in Chinese:

小 is also a dummy prefix. In a word, it either shows no meaning or  affection. When indicating affection, it is usually used by a senior towards their subordinates or by an elder towards younger people.

Rule：

Goes before people, adjectives or monosyllabic family names.

Structure：

小 + person/monosyllabic family name/other elements

i. no meaning

小姐（xiǎo jiě）Miss

小心（xiǎo xīn）to be careful

小丑（xiǎo chǒu）Joker; clown

小住（xiǎo zhù）to live for a while

小气（xiǎo qi）to be mean

ii. affection

小李，帮我打印一下。（Xiǎo Lǐ, bānɡ wǒ dǎyìn yí xià.）Lee, help me to print it.

小贺啊，回来啦！(Xiǎo Hè ā, huí lái lā!) He, you’re back!

阿 ā

* Original meaning and use:

阿 is usually combined with other elements to form a word. By itself, 阿 doesn’t mean anything.

* As a prefix in Chinese:

As a very common prefix, 阿is usually used as a greeting and indicates affection.

Rule：

Goes before numbers, monosyllabic family names, nicknames or relative nouns.

Structure：

阿 + number/monosyllabic family name/nickname/relative noun

• • • affection

阿四（ā sì）the fourth child；ranking fourth

阿六（ā liù）the sixth child；ranking sixth

阿王（ā wánɡ）Wang (family name)

阿武（ā wǔ）Wu (family name)

阿丽（ā lì）li (nickname)

阿姨（ā yí）antie; a calling to other woman with similar age as your mother

阿婆（ā pó）grandma; a calling to other elder woman

第 dì

* Original meaning and use:

第 is usually combined with other elements to form a word. By itself, 第  doesn’t mean anything.

* As a prefix in Chinese:

As a prefix, 第is usually used to indicate order.

Rule：

Goes before an integer.

Structure：

第 + integer

• • • ordinal

第一（dì yī）first

第二（dì èr）second

第十（dì shí）tenth

初 chū

* Original meaning and use:

初 means beginning or start. In modern Chinese, when 初 is used alone, it is usually a part of a fixed expression. Otherwise, it is part of a word.

e.g.

初来乍到（chū lái zhà dào）to be new here

他在学初级汉语。（Tā zài xué chūjí hànyǔ.）He is learning elementary Chinese.

我最初是想去北京的，最后却来了上海。

（Wǒ zuì chū shì xiǎnɡ qù Běijīnɡ de, zuì hòu què lái le Shànɡhǎi.）

At the beginning, I wanted to go to Beijing, however I came to Shanghai at last.

* As a prefix in Chinese:

As a prefix, 初is usually used to indicate sequence in Chinese lunar time.

Rule：

Goes before numbers less than or equal to ten.

Structure：

初 + number(≤10)

• • • sequence in Chinese lunar time

初一（chū yī）first day（lunar year）

初二（chū èr）second day (lunar year)

初十（chū shí）tenth day (lunar year)

Suffixes in Chinese

In modern Chinese, there are significantly more suffixes than prefixes, so, in this part, we will go over several important suffixes, such as 子, 儿，生，头，然，者，家，and 员, which will help you express a wide variety of ideas. These suffixes either show people’s affection, distinguish a group of people, or change the part of speech when added after other elements. So, let’s see how they work.

For clarity and convenient reading, a chart of suffixes is provided below.

Suffixes in Chinese

子 zi

* Original meaning and use:

In ancient Chinese, 子(zǐ) with third tone is an expression showing respect to honorable people.

e.g.

孔子（Kǒnɡ zǐ）Confucius, a Chinese philosopher

荀子（Xún zǐ）Xunzi, a Chinese philosopher

老子（Lǎo zǐ）Laozi, a Chinese philosopher

孟子（Mènɡ zǐ）Mengzi, a Chinese philosopher

* As a suffix in Chinese:

A very common suffix, 子（zi）pronounced with neutral tone is only a grammatical particle in modern Chinese. It is always used as a nominal suffix, added after another character.

Rule：

Goes after a partial noun, verb, or adjective to make it into a noun

Structure：

Partial noun/verb/adjective + 子

i. noun +子

桌子 (zhuō zi) desk; table

椅子 (yǐ zi) chair

凳子 (dènɡ zi) stool

杯子 (bēi zi) cup

筷子 (kuài zi) chopsticks

本子 (běn zi) notebook

箱子 (xiānɡ zi) box

盒子 (hé zi) case; box

橙子 (chénɡ zi) orange

橘子 (jú zi) tangerine

桃子 (táo zi) peach

儿子 (ér zi) sun

沙子 (shā zi) sand

ii. verb+子

盖子 (gài zi) lid

iii. adjective+子

傻子 (shǎ zi) the fool

疯子 (fēnɡ zi) madman

儿 ér

* Original meaning and use:

儿 originally meant son in Chinese and can be used alone or combined with other words.

e.g.

儿啊，你终于回来了。（Ér a, nǐ zhōnɡyú huílái le.）Oh my son, you finally back.

儿孙自有儿孙福。(Ér sūn zì yǒu ér sūn fú.) The children can take care of themselves when they grow up.

儿女双全 (Ér nǚ shuānɡ quán) with son and daughter

* As a suffix in Chinese:

As a common suffix, 儿（written as ‘r’ in pinyin）is only a grammatical particle. It mainly functions as a nominal suffix added after other characters.

Rule：

Goes after a partial noun or verb to form a noun.

Structure：

nominal morpheme/verbal morpheme + 儿

i. noun+儿

花儿 (huā’r) flower

盆儿 (pén’r) pot

棍儿 (ɡùn’r) stick

车儿 (chē’r) car

事儿 (shì’r) thing

女儿 (nǚ’r) daughter

ii. verb+儿

画儿 (huà’r) painting

卷儿 (juǎn’r) curve

盖儿 (ɡài’r) lid

头 tou

* Original meaning and use:

As a noun, 头 (tóu) means head. It can be used alone or combined with other words.

e.g.

你的头怎么了？(Nǐ de tóu zěnme le?) What’s wrong with your head?

我头疼。(Wǒ tóu ténɡ.) I have a headache.

头发 (tóufɑ) hair

* As a suffix in Chinese:

As a suffix, 头(tou) is pronounced with neutral tone. The ancient meaning of head has been obscured. It mainly functions as a nominal suffix, added after another character.

Rule：

Goes after a partial noun, verb, or adjective to make it into a noun.

Structure：

Partial noun/verb/adjective + 头

i. noun+头

木头 (mù tou) wood

石头 (shí tou) stone

骨头 (ɡǔ tou) bone

ii. verb+头

看头 (kàn tou) be worthy of watching

听头 (tīnɡ tou) be worthy of listening

念头 (niàn tou) idea; thought

iii. adjective+头

准头 (zhǔn tou) accuracy

甜头 (tián tou) sweet taste; benefit

然 rán

* Original meaning and use:

然originally functioned as an adjective meaning right or as a pronoun meaning such or this way.

e.g.

不以为然 (bù yǐ wéi rán) not to regard it as right

当然 (dānɡ rán) of course

然后 (rán hòu) then

* As a suffix in Chinese:

When used as a suffix, the original meaning of 然 doesn’t matter and it is used to describe a kind of state. It’s mainly used after another character to form an adverb, adjective or conjunction.

Rule：

Goes after a character to form an adverb, adjective or conjunction.

Structure：

a character + 然

i. form an adverb

忽然 (hū rán) suddenly

果然 (ɡuǒ rán) sure enough

恍然 (huǎnɡ rán) suddenly

ii. form an adjective

突然 (tū rán) sudden

显然 (xiǎn rán) obvious

iii. form a conjunction

既然 (jì rán) now that

虽然 (suī rán) even though

者 zhě

* Original meaning and use:

In ancient Chinese, 者 was used to refer to people or things with a certain featureafter another element. It is often used in Chinese poems or idioms.

e.g.

逝者如斯夫，不舍昼夜。(Shì zhě rú sī fu, bù shě zhòu yè.)

How it flows on, never creasing, night and day!

知人者智，自知者明。(Zhī rén zhě zhì, zì zhī zhě mínɡ.)

He who knows others is learned, and he who knows himself is wise.

* As a suffix in Chinese:

When used as a suffix, 者 actually keeps the characteristic of referring to people with a certain feature to some degree but becomes more ambiguous. It is mainly applied as a noun suffix added after another morpheme.

Rule：

Goes after a verb, adjective or part of a noun to make it into a noun.

Structure：

verb/adjective/partial noun + 者

i. verb+者

读者 (dúzhě) reader  

作者 (zuòzhě) author

学者 (xuézhě) scholar

ii. adjective+者

患者 (huànzhě) patient

长者 (zhǎnɡzhě) eldership

伤者 (shānɡzhě) the wounded

iii. noun+者

笔者 (bǐzhě) writer

家 jiā

* Original meaning and use:

In modern Chinese, 家 means family or home. It can be used alone or combined with other words.

e.g.

这是我家。(Zhè shì wǒ jiā.) This is home.

家人 (jiā rén) family

家庭 (jiā tínɡ) household

* As a suffix in Chinese:

As a nominal suffix, 家 can be put after activities to indicate people engaged in that activity.

Rule：

Goes after an activity.

Structure：

 activity + 家

• • • people engaged in some field of activity

画家 (huàjiā) painter

科学家 (kēxuéjiā) scientist

天文学家 (tiānwénxuéjiā) astronomer

作家 (zuòjiā) writer

小说家 (xiǎoshuōjiā) fictionist

数学家 (shùxuéjiā) mathematian

员 yuán

* Original meaning and use:

员 refers to people and can be used alone or combined with other words.

e.g.

你是我们队里的一员。 (Nǐ shì women duì lǐ de yì yuán.) You are a member of our team.

人员 (rén yuán) personnel

员工 (yuánɡōnɡ) staff

动员 (dònɡyuán) call forth

* As a suffix in Chinese:

As a nominal suffix, 员 can be put after an activity or group to indicate people who do that activity or are members of that group.

Rule：

Goes after a character for an activity or group.

Structure：

activity/group + 员

i. people engaged in activity

球员 (qiúyuán) player

演员 (yǎnyuán) actor

ii. people in a group

队员 (duìyuán) teammate

会员 (huìyuán) member

成员 (chénɡyuán) member

团员 (tuányuán) group member

们 men

* Original meaning and use:

们 usually needs to be combined with other elements to form a word. By itself, 们 doesn’t mean anything.

* As a suffix in Chinese:

As a suffix, 们 is mainly put after nouns or pronouns to indicate pluralization.

Rule：

Goes after a noun or pronoun to make it plural.

Structure：

noun/pronoun + 们

• • • indicate plural

我们 (wǒmen) we; us

你们 (nǐmen) you

他们 (tāmen) they; them

她们 (tāmen) they; them

它们 (tāmen) they; them

人们 (rénmen) people

歌手们 (ɡēshǒumen) singers

志愿者们 (zhìyuànzhěmen) volunteers

边 biān

* Original meaning and use:

边 (biān) with first tone refers to the edge, boundary, border or side.

e.g.

边缘 (biānyuán) edge

边疆 (biānjiānɡ) boundary

边界 (biānjiānɡ) border

等边三角形 (děnɡ biān sānjiǎoxínɡ) equilateral triangle

* As a suffix in Chinese:

边is a suffix attached to nouns that indicate location.

Rule：

Goes after after a location nouns.

Structure：

location noun+边

• • • adjunct to location noun

上边（shànɡbiɑn）upper

下边（xiàbiɑn） lower

左边（zuǒbiɑn）left

右边（yòubiɑn）right

外边（wàibiɑn）outside

里边（lǐbiɑn）inside

前边（qiánbiɑn）front

后边（hòubiɑn）back

东边（dōnɡbiɑn）east

西边（xībiɑn）west

北边（běibiɑn）north

南边（nánbiɑn）south

The post All About Chinese Prefixes and Suffixes appeared first on .

1. Learning Chinese Characters

The way this book works is that it uses stories to help you remember both the meanings and pronunciations of Chinese characters. It first distinguishes the difference between ‘basic building blocks’ and ‘composite’ characters. Basic building blocks on their own mean one thing but when it’s combined with another basic building block it forms a new meaning and this new character thus becomes a composite character. The characters are listed one by one in the book and the character, pinyin and English meaning is given. Then the story to help you remember this is written next to it. If you are struggling with your reading skills this is definitely a book worth investing in. Get to know more about it here.

2. Chinese Flash Cards Kit

• Volume 1  HSK Levels 1 & 2 Elementary Level （1-349 most basic Chinese characters; 2000 words and phrases）
• Volume 2  HSK Levels 3 & 4 Intermediate Level （350-622 characters；1360 words and phrases）
• Volume 3 HSK Upper Intermediate Level  (623-1070 characters；2240 words and phrases）
• Volume 4 Tuttle Flash Cards  (448 main words; 1792 compounds – 2700 basic vocabulary items）

Developed with HSK study and AP test-prep in mind, the front of Tuttle’s Chinese Flash Cards give one Chinese character, a stroke order guide, four words and phrases, and look-alike alerts to help avoid confusion. On the reverse is as much information as a dictionary entry: Romanized pronunciation and English meanings, sample sentences for correct usage, plus helpful mnemonics and learning tips. An audio CD gives native-speaker pronunciations, and a handy organizing ring is the perfect way to keep the cards together when you’re on the go. Whether at home or on the go, you can use these cards to learn several new characters every day and watch your knowledge develop rapidly over time.

3. Chinese for Kids

• Set 1 : 10 themes: Family, Animals, Clothing, Colors, Face/Body, Fruit, Numbers, Shapes, Snacks, Toys.
• Set 2 : 10 themes: Food, Verbs, Tableware, Art supplies, Feelings, Nature, Jobs, Furniture, Bedtime and a Surprise Delivery

As the Brain Child Award Winner, the set 1 & 2 of Chinese for Kids are good motivating of first readers for children ages 3-8 who are beginning to learn Chinese. Developed with teachers, the Spot Color Immersion Method combines simple sentences, humor, visual cues, repetition and context in just one line of text per page to help beginners learn vocabulary. Children soon read each page by themselves until they proudly finish their first little book in Chinese, then all 20, an achievement that builds confidence and motivates them to continue learning. Kids learn the correct pronunciation by listening to the online audio by a native speaker. 

4. Chineasy Series

Chineasy: 60 Flashcards

This essential companion to Chineasy includes 60 gorgeous full-color flashcards to practice and master the key characters of the revolutionary visual method for learning to read and write Chinese. Each flashcard features one large, bold Chinese character in pictogram on the front, along with its English translation. On the back, the pictogram is “unpicked” to display its actual Chinese character, and includes three compound words that use it.

Chineasy: The New Way to Read Chinese

In Chineasy, the author teaches the key characters, called radicals, that are the language’s foundation, and then shows how they can be combined to form new words and even phrases. Once you’ve mastered these key characters, you can practice your skills with three stories—a fairy tale, an Asian legend, and a contemporary fable—told using the radicals. With Chineasy, readers of all ages will be able to navigate a Chinese menu, read signs and billboards, and grasp the meaning of most articles in a Chinese newspaper.

Chineasy for Children: Learn 100 Words

The book is organized by themes such as numbers, family, animals, and food, each section covering vocabulary within that topic. Stories about the development of characters and customs provide the perfect introduction to Chinese culture, while games and activities allow children to put into practice what they have learned. Subsequent spreads feature lively scenes that help children to recognize over 100 Chinese characters.

Chineasy Travel

The essential pocket-sized Chineasy guide to characters, phrases, and culture for travelers makes learning Chinese fun and easy. ShaoLan’s visual, building-block-style teaching method makes learning characters simple and fun: by learning common characters, readers can quickly grasp and communicate basic words and phrases while traveling.

Chineasy Workbook

Not only recognizing the characters and words, there is also a workbook to help practicing your handwriting.

The post Recommended Chinese Characters Books appeared first on .

In this article, we will focus on the word 时而 (shí’ér), an adverb that is normally used in written Chinese. This word indicates that something happens repeatedly and not regularly, and there are mainly two sentence structures used with it. We’ll provide plenty of examples to demonstrate how it works, so you can start using it in your own Chinese conversations. So, let’s dive in!

1) 时而 …… 时而 ……

When you want to show alternating situations or different events happening within a certain period of time, you can use 时而(shí’ér) in this structure, It indicates that something happens repeatedly but not regularly.

For example:

最近她有点奇怪，时而哭，时而发呆，不爱说话了。
(Zuìjìn tā yǒudiǎn qíguài, shí’ér kū, shí’ér fādāi, bù ài shuōhuàle.)
Recently, she has been a bit strange, sometimes crying, sometimes dazed, not talking any more.

那个人时而看外面，时而看手表，可能在等人。
(Nàgè rén shí’ér kàn wàimiàn, shí’ér kàn shǒubiǎo, kěnéng zài děng rén.)
The man sometimes looks outside, and sometimes looks at his watch. Maybe he is waiting for someone.

时而开心，时而难过，时而平静，这就是生活。
(Shí’ér kāixīn, shí’ér nánguò, shí’ér píngjìng, zhè jiùshì shēnghuó.)
Sometimes happy, sometimes sad, sometimes peaceful, this is life.

今天时而出太阳，时而下雨，这个比赛不能在户外进行了。
(Jīntiān shí’ér chū tàiyáng, shí’ér xià yǔ, zhège bǐsài bùnéng zài hùwài jìnxíngle.)
Sometimes the sun comes out, sometimes it rains, this game can’t be held outdoors.

2) 时而 + verbal phrase / adjective phrase ……

You cannot use the word 时而(shí’ér) repeatedly when it is followed by a verbal phrase or an adjective phrase.

For example:

这段时间时而会下很大的雨。
(Zhè duàn shíjiān shí’ér huì xià hěn dà de yǔ.)
During this time period, there will sometimes be heavy rain.

生病以后，同事们时而来我家看我。
(Shēngbìng yǐhòu, tóngshìmen shí’ér lái wǒjiā kàn wǒ.)
After falling ill, colleagues sometimes come visit me at my home.

我时而听到邻居吵架的声音。
(Wǒ shí’ér tīng dào línjū chǎojià de shēngyīn.)
I sometimes heard the sound of neighbors arguing.

虽然他在开会，但也时而看看手机。
(Suīrán tā zài kāihuì, dàn yě shí’ér kàn kàn shǒujī.)
Although he is in a meeting, he also sometimes looks at his phone.

We can also use 不时(bùshí) in this structure to express the same meaning. Keep in mind that 不时(bùshí) can only replace 时而(shí’ér) when it is used singularly. It cannot replace 时而(shí’ér) when it is repeated.

For example:

她今天怎么了？开会的时候也不时看手机。
(Tā jīntiān zěnmele? Kāihuì de shíhòu yě bùshí kàn shǒujī.)
What happened to her today? She looked at her phone from time to time during meetings.

不时地运动对身体有好处。
(Bùshí de yùndòng duì shēntǐ yǒu hǎochù.)
Exercising from time to time is good for your body.

While 有时候(yǒu shíhou) is the most commonly taught word for “sometimes,” there are other phrases that can be used in different contexts. 时而(shí’ér) is often used in written Chinese to indicate a repeated but irregular occurrence, while 不时(bùshí)  can be used interchangeably with 时而(shí’ér) in certain sentence structures. Learning these different ways to say “sometimes” can help you communicate more effectively in daily life. So, don’t hesitate to incorporate them into your Chinese language arsenal!

(For more detailed examples and more grammar point explanations, you can check out our Chinese Grammar Course – HSK.)

The post Enhance Your Chinese Vocabulary: Saying “Sometimes” Using 时而 appeared first on .

今天突然/忽然冷起来了。(Jīntiān tūrán/hūrán lěng qǐláile.)
It`s suddenly cold today.

下午突然/忽然下起了大雨。(Xiàwǔ tūrán/hūrán xià qǐle dàyǔ.)
Suddenly, it rained heavily in the afternoon.

But are these two words the same? Can they replace each other without any conditions? Of course not! They share the same meaning but play different roles in a sentence.

忽然

忽然 is an adverb which can only be an adverbial modifier in a sentence. Plus, there should not be any adverb of degree before it. For example,

我忽然非常想家。(Wǒ hūrán fēicháng xiǎng jiā.) √
我非常忽然想家。(Wǒ fēicháng hūrán xiǎng jiā.) ×
I suddenly miss home very much.

今天起床太早，我忽然有点儿困了。(Jīntiān qǐchuáng tài zǎo, wǒ hūrán yǒudiǎnr kùnle.) √
今天起床太早，我有点儿忽然困了。(Jīntiān qǐchuáng tài zǎo, wǒ yǒudiǎnr hūrán kùnle.) ×
I got up too early today, I suddenly got sleepy.

突然

Other than 忽然，突然 is an adjective which can be a predicate, an attributive, a complement, as well as adverbial modifier. Moreover, the adverb of degree can modify the word. For example,

这个事情很突然。(Zhège shìqíng hěn tūrán.) This thing is very sudden.

这个消息非常突然。(Zhège xiāoxī fēicháng tūrán.) This news is very sudden.

-> as predicate

这个突然的消息让人很意外。(Zhège tūrán de xiāoxī ràng rén hěn yìwài.)
This sudden news is very surprising.

你突然的到来让我们有点尴尬。(Nǐ tūrán de dàolái ràng wǒmen yǒudiǎn gāngà.)
Your sudden arrival makes us a bit embarrassed.

->As attributive

这场雨下得很突然。（Zhè chǎng yǔ xià dé hěn tūrán.）This rain is very sudden.

他去世得太突然了。(Tā qùshì dé tài tūránle.) He died too suddenly.

-As complement

我突然非常想家。（Wǒ tūrán fēicháng xiǎng jiā.）I suddenly miss home very much.

他突然就跑进来了。(Tā tūrán jiù pǎo jìnláile.) He suddenly ran in.

->Adverbial modifier

You can check a more detailed explanation in the grammar video course here.

The post 忽然 vs 突然: an analysis of the word “suddenly” in Chinese appeared first on .

There are generally 6 basic types of aspects of an action: those which complete or realize an action or event; the change of circumstances; the continuous aspect of an action or a state; the past experience; an action that is going to take place in a short time; and the progressive aspect of an action. Each of them is detailed, explained, and illustrated in our grammar courses. Below is a brief summary.

1. Completion or realization of an action or event

It uses the auxiliary “了” to complete or realize an action or event, It is often put after the verb.

e.g.

我去书店买了一本书。(Wǒ qù shūdiàn mǎile yī běn shū.)
I went to the bookstore and bought a book.

他借了我的钱。(Tā jièle wǒ de qián.)
He borrowed my money.

妈妈去上海了。(Māma qù Shànghǎi le.)
My mother went to Shanghai.

你吃了饭了吗？(Nǐ chī le fàn le ma?)
Have you eaten?

2. Changed circumstances

The other meaning of 了 is used to indicate a change of circumstances, and it is often put at the end of the sentence.

e.g.

天气越来越冷了。(Tiānqì yuè lái yuè lěngle.)
The weather is getting cold.

气候越来越差了。(Qìhòu yuè lái yuè chàle.)
The climate is getting worse.

他有女朋友了。(Tā yǒu nǚ péngyǒule.)
He has a girlfriend.

老板今天不来了。(Lǎobǎn jīntiān bù láile.)
The boss is not coming today.

弟弟上大学了。(Dìdi shàng dàxué le.)
My brother went to college.

3. The continuous aspect of an action or a state

We often use the word “着” to express the continuous aspect of an action or a state. And this kind of sentence`s predicate can be an adjective or a verb.

e.g.

我带着伞去学校。(Wǒ dàizhe sǎn qù xuéxiào.
I went to school with my umbrella.

门开着。(Mén kāizhe.)
The door is open.

桌子上放着杯子。(Zhuōzi shàng fàngzhe bēizi.)
There is a cup on the table.

她穿着一条长裙子。(Tā chuānzhe yītiáo cháng qúnzi.)
She is wearing a long skirt.

4. Past experience

To express a past experience, “过” often appears in the sentence. If it`s a negative sentence, “没” is often put before the predicate.

e.g.

我没这本书。(Wǒ méi zhè běn shū.)
I don’t have this book.

我从来没见过他。(Wǒ cónglái méi jiànguò tā.)
I have never seen him before.

你以前看过这部电影吗？(Nǐ yǐqián kànguò zhè bù diànyǐng ma?)
Have you seen this movie before?

我听过这首歌。(Wǒ tīngguò zhè shǒu gē.)
I have heard this song.

5. An action that is going to take place in a short time

Since “了” can be used to show changes of certain situations, when you add some future time words like “快”, “快要”, “就要”, the sentence then indicates that an action will take place in a short time.

e.g.

要放假了。(Yào fàngjiàle.)
The holiday is coming.

出租车快来了。(Chūzū chē kuài láile.)
The taxi is coming.

马上就要过春节了。(Mǎshàng jiù yàoguò chūnjiéle.)
It’s about time to celebrate the Spring Festival soon.

我明天就要搬家了。(Wǒ míngtiān jiù yào bānjiāle.)
I am going to move tomorrow.

6. The progressive aspect of an action

The words “在” ,“正在”, “正”, are often used to indicate the progressive aspect of an action.

e.g.

你在做什么？(Nǐ zài zuò shénme?)
What are you doing?

我正在看书。(Wǒ zhèngzài kànshū.)
I am reading a book.

她在睡觉呢。(Tā zài shuìjiào ne.)
She is sleeping.

我打电话给她的时候，她正在睡觉。(Wǒ dǎ diànhuà gěi tā de shíhòu, tā zhèngzài shuìjiào.)
When I called her she was sleeping.

These six aspects of action expressions may seem like a lot to remember to be able to express actions well in Chinese. But in truth, if you can master the different subject-verb agreements in English, then it is just a simple matter of adjusting to the sentence structures in Chinese to be able to master the six aspects above. Once you do, you will find that expressing actions and verbs in Chinese will be as natural as in your own native language.

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However, offering certain gifts to a Chinese friend or acquaintance may be considered offensive or disrespectful. So, to ensure your gift is well received, it’s essential to avoid these seven Chinese taboos when choosing a gift.

1. Clocks

Chinese people avoid giving clocks as gifts because the phrase 送钟 (sòng zhōng; give a clock) sounds similar to 送终(sòng zhōng; attend a funeral). This connection makes the elderly and other Chinese people feel like they are being cursed if they receive a clock as a gift.

2. Umbrellas

Similarly, the Chinese word for “umbrella” (伞, sǎn) sounds like “separate” (散, sàn). When you give an umbrella as a gift to your friend, it may imply that you want to end your relationship with them. Moreover, presenting an umbrella to a married couple suggests that you want them to get a divorce! (Note: It is perfectly fine to offer an umbrella if it is actually raining.)

3. Green Hats

In Chinese culture, a green hat is a metaphor only associated with men, indicating that their wife or girlfriend has been unfaithful to them.

Why does “green hat” (绿帽子, lǜ màozi) carry such a specific meaning in China? One story recounts an incident in ancient China when a merchant’s wife had an affair with a cloth seller. She crafted a green hat for her husband to wear, signaling to the cloth seller that he could meet his lover whenever the husband was away on business. Since then, “green hat” (绿帽子, lǜ màozi) has become a symbol of a woman betraying her husband or boyfriend.

4. Sharp Objects

Sharp objects like knives or scissors are associated with cutting and represent the act of severing a relationship. In Chinese culture, there is a common saying, “一刀两断” (yì dāo liǎng duàn, meaning “cut in two with one stroke of a knife”), which signifies the end of a relationship between two people. Therefore, giving someone a sharp object implies a desire to cut off the relationship with them.

5. Chrysanthemums

While flower arrangements are typically acceptable gifts, it is important to avoid giving chrysanthemums (菊花, jú huā) in Chinese culture. Chrysanthemums are traditionally associated with mourning the death of someone and are often placed on graves. As a result, it is considered inappropriate to give chrysanthemums or images of them as gifts to celebrate joyful occasions or memories.

6. Black and White Gifts

In China, the colors white (白色, bái sè) and black (黑色, hēi sè) are linked to bad luck due to their association with funerals. White symbolizes profound sorrow, while black represents grief and mourning. To avoid any negative connotations, it is advisable to steer clear of gifts that are predominantly black or white in color, as well as wrapping paper or envelopes in these colors.

7. Candles

Avoid gifting candles, as they are connected to rituals for the deceased. Instead, if you receive an invitation to a funeral, it is preferable to follow the Chinese custom of giving cash to the grieving family. Money is considered a means of expressing condolences and assisting with funeral costs. Similarly, in the context of weddings, cash gifts are seen as a gesture of wishing the newlyweds good luck.

How to Give a Gift in Chinese Culture

Symbolism and presentation hold greater significance than the actual gift itself in Chinese culture.

Gift-giving is a solemn ritual governed by ancient traditions, including the practice of initially declining a gift two or three times (or more) before accepting it. Don’t give up on the first refusal, but remain attentive to genuine refusals.

Furthermore, it is customary for Chinese recipients to not open gifts immediately upon receiving them. Instead, they prefer reciprocating with another gift rather than sending a “thank you” card. Hence, it is best to refrain from opening a present in front of the giver unless they insist, and expressing appreciation for their gift is appropriately done by giving another gift in return.

In conclusion, gift-giving is a significant part of Chinese culture, and following the appropriate etiquette can help strengthen relationships and build alliances. By avoiding the seven taboos listed above, you can show respect for Chinese customs and demonstrate your understanding and appreciation for their culture.

Remember that in Chinese culture, the symbolism and presentation of a gift are more important than the gift itself. So, when giving a gift to a Chinese friend, take the time to choose something thoughtful and meaningful, wrap it beautifully, and present it with sincerity. Your efforts will be greatly appreciated and will go a long way in building a positive and lasting relationship.

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1. It takes time to learn how to write in Chinese naturally and fluidly. The best thing to do is to learn by example. Set aside time to read Chinese articles, books, or stories each day and always look up any characters you are unfamiliar with. You can then write sample sentences with these characters to help you remember them. Keep a character diary and accompanying sample sentences each day. You can easily see your progress this way and refer back to the characters you have forgotten.

2. Though paying attention to grammar and punctuation is important, what is most essential is knowing which characters are correct in which context. So, in your character diary, also note the context in which the characters you have learned are used. In Chinese, there is a wide variety of uses for characters and sometimes many characters might seem correct for one circumstance. In time, you will learn to use the most appropriate ones for the right situations.

3. Read about 2000 characters a day. Just as with any language, to speak in, write in, and listen to Chinese properly, it is essential to read a lot. Most people learn better by seeing characters as they are written and to hear them being spoken simultaneously. The more senses you use in your learning, the more you will remember what you are studying. Watching Chinese movies with Chinese subtitles can help you a lot with engaging your senses.

4. Try writing your ideas and thoughts down in Chinese. Begin by writing about simple topics, such “A hobby of mine,” “My recent vacation, “My favorite color,” and so on. You only have to write a few sentences in the beginning, but over time, you will surely find yourself writing more as you learn more characters. As always, pay attention to grammar and to using the most correct character for each context.

5. Note down idioms, common expressions, and transitional phrases in Chinese. Many of these expressions are culturally native, and might seem outlandish to you at first. But knowing these common expressions will greatly aid you in not only understanding the language, but comprehending Chinese culture as well.

6. In your Chinese diary, you can also write about punctuation rules you find peculiar but interesting, and which are important to remember. Like all difficult languages, punctuation in Chinese has particular uses and symbols you need to adapt to. Here is a quick guide on Chinese punctuation.

7. As you progress, you will eventually notice certain mistakes foreigners make while using Chinese. If one is familiar with these mistakes, you will be more likely to not commit these errors yourself in the future.  Check out a list of common mistakes foreigners make while using Chinese.

A final note: You can also get text written in Chinese for you, have your own Chinese writing proofread, and get overall feedback about your Chinese writing at essaywill.cn. It is a great resource for those learning to write in Chinese.

I hope these pieces of advice are helpful to you and speed up your progress in learning Chinese proficiently.

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