100 Essential Chinese Vocabulary Words Every Beginner Should Learn

Are you ready to speak Mandarin with confidence? You can get better by learning important Chinese vocabulary. Studies say learning basic words helps you understand most daily conversations. If you learn 3,000 words, you can understand 98% of conversations. You remember words more when you see them in real life. Coachers makes learning easy for beginners. You get expert teachers and flexible Chinese lessons online. Use this list to start learning Chinese vocabulary and practice in real talks.

Key Takeaways

• Knowing basic Chinese words helps you follow daily talks and say what you mean.

• Learning pronouns and verbs lets you make easy sentences fast and talk well.

• Common nouns, adjectives, and question words make your talks better and help you talk to people.

• Using Coachers gives you special help and many ways to learn more Chinese words.

• Practice often with real-life examples to help you remember and feel sure when you speak Mandarin.

Pronouns

Pronouns help you talk about yourself, others, and things around you. When you use pronouns, you make your sentences shorter and clearer. You use them every day in English, and you will use them just as much in Chinese. Learning these words gives you the power to build simple sentences fast. Let’s look at the most important pronouns you need to know.

Personal Pronouns

Personal pronouns let you talk about people and things. You use them to say who is doing something or who you are talking about. In Chinese, these words are short and easy to remember. Here is a table with the most common personal pronouns, their pinyin, and what they mean in English:

You can use these words to start making your own sentences. For example, “我喜欢中文” (wǒ xǐhuān zhōngwén) means “I like Chinese.” Try using different pronouns to talk about your friends, your family, or even your pets.

Tip: In Chinese, the word for “he,” “she,” and “it” all sound the same: tā. The written character tells you if you mean a boy, a girl, or a thing.

Demonstrative Pronouns

Demonstrative pronouns help you point to things. You use them to say “this,” “that,” “these,” or “those.” These words are super useful when you want to show or ask about something nearby or far away.

• 这 (zhè) – this

• 那 (nà) – that
  Use these words for one thing. For example:

  • 这是我妈妈。(zhè shì wǒ māma) – This is my mom.

  • 那是你的卧室吗？(nà shì nǐ de wòshì ma?) – Is that your bedroom?

• 这些 (zhèxiē) – these

• 那些 (nàxiē) – those
  Use these words for more than one thing. For example:

  • 这些是我弟弟的玩具。(zhèxiē shì wǒ dìdi de wánjù) – These are my younger brother’s toys.

  • 那些不是你的鞋。(nàxiē bú shì nǐ de xié) – Those are not your shoes.

You will use these pronouns all the time when you ask questions, show things to friends, or talk about what you see. They help you sound more natural and make your Chinese much easier to understand.

Note: Pronouns are the building blocks of every sentence. Once you know them, you can start talking about yourself, your friends, and everything around you in Chinese!

Basic Verbs

Verbs help you say what you do every day. You use them to talk about actions, plans, and even your dreams. When you learn basic verbs in Chinese, you can start making sentences that show what you want or need. You do not have to worry about changing the verb for past or future. The verb stays the same, so you can focus on what you want to say.

Action Verbs

Action verbs let you talk about things you do from morning to night. You can use them to describe your routine, hobbies, and even your chores. Here is a table with some of the most common action verbs you will use in daily Mandarin conversations:

You can use these verbs to talk about your day. For example, you might say, “我吃早饭” (wǒ chī zǎo fàn) for “I have breakfast.” Try mixing different verbs to share your story.

Tip: Chinese verbs do not change for tense. You use time words like “昨天” (zuótiān, yesterday) or “明天” (míngtiān, tomorrow) to show when something happens.

Modal Verbs

Modal verbs help you talk about what you can do, want to do, or need to do. You use them to show ability, permission, or desire. These verbs make your sentences more interesting and help you share your feelings.

• 会 (huì): can, know how to

• 能 (néng): can, be able to

• 可以 (kěyǐ): may, can (permission)

• 要 (yào): want, need

• 想 (xiǎng): want, would like

You might say, “我会唱歌” (wǒ huì chàng gē) for “I can sing.” Or, “我想吃饭” (wǒ xiǎng chī fàn) for “I want to eat.” Modal verbs let you express your intentions and possibilities. You use them every day to talk about your plans and wishes.

Note: Mastering these verbs helps you say what you want, what you can do, and what you hope for. You will sound more natural and confident in your conversations.

Everyday Nouns

You use everyday nouns to talk about your world. These words help you describe your family, where you go, and what you see or use. When you know these everyday words, you can share stories, ask questions, and connect with others in Chinese.

People & Family

Family is a big part of life in China. You will often talk about your parents, siblings, and relatives. Here is a table with some of the most important people and family nouns you will use:

You can use these words to introduce your family or ask about someone else’s. For example, “这是我哥哥” (zhè shì wǒ gē ge) means “This is my older brother.”

Places

You visit many places every day. You might go to school, the store, or a restaurant. Here are some common places you will talk about in Chinese:

• 学校 (xué xiào) – school

• 家 (jiā) – home

• 医院 (yī yuàn) – hospital

• 商店 (shāng diàn) – shop

• 机场 (jī chǎng) – airport

• 公园 (gōng yuán) – park

• 饭店 (fàn diàn) – restaurant

• 车站 (chē zhàn) – bus or train station

You might say, “我在学校” (wǒ zài xué xiào) for “I am at school.” These words help you tell others where you are or where you want to go.

Objects

You use many objects every day. Some help you study, some help you travel, and some make life easier. Here are a few useful objects in Chinese:

• 书 (shū) – book

• 手机 (shǒu jī) – cell phone

• 电脑 (diàn nǎo) – computer

• 车 (chē) – car

• 桌子 (zhuō zi) – table

• 椅子 (yǐ zi) – chair

• 钱包 (qián bāo) – wallet

• 钥匙 (yào shi) – key

You can use these everyday nouns to talk about what you have, what you need, or what you see around you. For example, “我的手机在桌子上” (wǒ de shǒu jī zài zhuō zi shàng) means “My phone is on the table.”

When you learn these everyday words, you can describe your environment and relationships. You will find it much easier to join conversations and share your daily life in Chinese.

Adjectives

Adjectives make your Chinese sentences come alive. You use them to add color, feeling, and detail. When you describe people or things, you help others see what you mean. You can talk about someone’s age, mood, or even how something looks or feels. Let’s explore some useful adjectives you’ll use every day.

Describing People

You meet many people. You want to talk about how they look, act, or feel. Adjectives help you do that. Here are some of the most common words you’ll use to describe people in Mandarin:

• 老的 (lǎo de) – old

• 年轻的 (nián qīng de) – young

• 强壮的 (qiáng zhuàng de) – strong

• 弱小的 (ruò xiǎo de) – weak

• 病的 (bìng de) – sick

• 敏捷的 (mǐn jié de) – agile

• 漂亮的 (piào liang de) – pretty

• 富有的 (fù yǒu de) – rich

• 有气质的 (yǒu qì zhì de) – attractive

• 危险的 (wēi xiǎn de) – dangerous

• 好玩的 (hǎo wán de) – fun

• 有趣的 (yǒu qù de) – interesting

• 无聊的 (wú liáo de) – boring

• 刺激的 (cì jī de) – exciting

You might say, “他是强壮的” (tā shì qiáng zhuàng de) for “He is strong.” Or, “她是漂亮的” (tā shì piào liang de) for “She is pretty.” These words help you share your thoughts and feelings about people you know.

Describing Things

You see many things every day. You want to tell others what you think about them. Adjectives help you describe objects, places, and experiences. Here are some useful words:

You can say, “这辆车是新的” (zhè liàng chē shì xīn de) for “This car is new.” Or, “房间很干净” (fáng jiān hěn gān jìng) for “The room is clean.”

Adjectives give your sentences more detail. You can describe people, places, and things clearly. You express your feelings and make your stories interesting. When you use different adjectives, you sound more fluent and confident in Chinese.

Numbers & Quantifiers

Numbers and quantifiers help you count, measure, and talk about amounts in Chinese. You use them every day, whether you buy snacks, tell your age, or ask for two tickets. Mandarin makes counting easy, but you need to know the right words and how to use them.

Numbers 1-10

You start with the basics. If you know numbers one to ten, you can count almost anything. Here’s a table to help you remember:

You use these numbers to say your age, order food, or count objects. For example, “我有三本书” (wǒ yǒu sān běn shū) means “I have three books.”

Tip: In Mandarin, you always use a measure word between the number and the noun. This makes your meaning clear.

Common Quantifiers

Measure words, or quantifiers, are special words you use with numbers. They tell you what kind of thing you are counting. You can’t just say “three book” in Chinese. You say “three běn book.” Here are some of the most common ones:

You use “个” (gè) for people and many objects. “本” (běn) is for books. “只” (zhī) works for animals. “杯” (bēi) is for drinks. If you want to say “two cups of tea,” you say “两杯茶” (liǎng bēi chá).

• 张 (zhāng): for flat things like paper or tickets.

• 台 (tái): for machines.

• 件 (jiàn): for clothes.

• 条 (tiáo): for long, thin things.

Measure words help you sound natural and clear. You use them every time you count or measure in Chinese. Once you get used to them, you’ll find counting in Mandarin feels easy and fun!

Numbers and quantifiers are key for daily life. You use them to shop, travel, and talk about yourself. Practice using them with real objects around you. You’ll get better every day!

Colors & Shapes

Colors

Colors make your world bright and interesting. You use color words every day to talk about clothes, food, or even your favorite things. In Mandarin, color words help you describe objects, share your likes, and ask questions. You will hear them in stores, at school, and when you chat with friends.

Here are the most common color words in Chinese:

You can use these words to describe things around you. For example:

• 这是红色的苹果。(Zhè shì hóngsè de píngguǒ) – This is a red apple.

• 桌子是黑色的。(Zhuōzi shì hēisè de) – The table is black.

• 我喜欢蓝色的天空。(Wǒ xǐhuān lánsè de tiānkōng) – I like the blue sky.

• 她穿着绿色的裙子。(Tā chuānzhe lǜsè de qúnzi) – She is wearing a green dress.

You can ask someone, “您喜欢什么颜色的？” (Nín xǐhuān shénme yánsè de?) – What color do you like? If you want to share your favorite, say, “我最喜欢的颜色是蓝色。” (Wǒ zuì xǐhuān de yánsè shì lánsè) – My favorite color is blue.

Colors help you express your style, your mood, and your choices. You use them to make your sentences lively and clear.

Shapes

Shapes help you talk about how things look. You use shape words to describe toys, food, or even buildings. When you know these words, you can explain what you see and ask for what you want.

Here are some useful shape words in Mandarin:

• 形状 (xíngzhuàng) – Shape

• 圆形 (yuánxíng) – Circle

• 方形 (fāngxíng) – Square

• 矩形 (jǔxíng) – Rectangle

• 三角形 (sānjiǎoxíng) – Triangle

• 立方体 (lìfāngtǐ) – Cube

• 球形 (qiúxíng) – Sphere

• 椭圆形 (tuǒyuánxíng) – Oval

• 菱形 (língxíng) – Diamond

• 六边形 (liùbiānxíng) – Hexagon

• 五角形 (wǔjiǎoxíng) – Pentagon

• 金字塔形 (jīnzìtǎxíng) – Pyramid

You might say, “这个饼干是圆形的。” (Zhège bǐnggān shì yuánxíng de) – This cookie is round. Or, “我喜欢方形的盒子。” (Wǒ xǐhuān fāngxíng de hézi) – I like square boxes.

When you use color and shape words, you make your Chinese more descriptive. You can talk about what you see, what you want, and what you like. These words help you in daily conversations, shopping, and even art class!

Days & Time

Learning how to talk about days and time in Chinese helps you plan your week, set up meetings, and talk about your daily routine. When you know these words, you can tell someone when you are free, make appointments, or remember special days. Let’s start with the basics.

Days of the Week

You use days of the week all the time. In Mandarin, you just add a number to the word for "week" (星期 xīngqī). Here’s a handy table to help you remember:

You can say, “今天是星期三” (jīntiān shì xīngqīsān) for “Today is Wednesday.” If you want to talk about the weekend, use “周末” (zhōumò). These words help you talk about your plans and remember important dates.

Time Expressions

Time expressions make it easy to talk about when things happen. You use them to set up meetings, talk about your daily routine, or remember special events. Here are some common time expressions you’ll use every day:

• 现在 (xiànzài) – now

• 今天 (jīntiān) – today

• 明天 (míngtiān) – tomorrow

• 昨天 (zuótiān) – yesterday

• 早上 (zǎoshang) – morning

• 下午 (xiàwǔ) – afternoon

• 晚上 (wǎnshang) – evening

• 点 (diǎn) – o’clock

• 分 (fēn) – minute

• 小时 (xiǎoshí) – hour

You might say, “我们明天下午见” (wǒmen míngtiān xiàwǔ jiàn) for “Let’s meet tomorrow afternoon.” Or, “现在几点？” (xiànzài jǐ diǎn) for “What time is it now?”

Time expressions help you organize your day. You can suggest and confirm meeting times, schedule appointments, and talk about your favorite memories. When you use these words, you make your Chinese sound natural and clear. You’ll find it much easier to plan your week and talk about your life!

Question Words

Essential Question Words

If you want to start a conversation in Chinese, you need question words. These words help you ask about people, places, things, and more. You use them every day to find out what’s happening, where to go, or who to talk to. When you know these words, you can ask for directions, order food, or make new friends.

Here’s a handy table with the most essential question words in Mandarin. You’ll see the Chinese character, the pinyin, and the English meaning. Keep this list close when you practice!

You can use these words to ask simple questions. Try saying, “你叫什么名字？” (nǐ jiào shénme míngzi) – What’s your name? Or, “你住在哪里？” (nǐ zhù zài nǎlǐ) – Where do you live? These words open up conversations and help you learn more about the world around you.

Why are question words so important?

• You use question words to talk about anything you want to know.

• They help you get information, solve problems, and make plans.

• You can ask about time, place, people, and reasons.

• Question words make your conversations lively and meaningful.

• When you master these words, you can connect with others and build relationships.

If you want to sound natural in Mandarin, practice using these question words every day. You’ll find that people respond better when you ask clear questions. You’ll also feel more confident when you travel, study, or chat with friends. So, keep asking and keep learning!

Useful Phrases

When you start speaking Mandarin, you want to sound friendly and polite. The right phrases help you greet people, show respect, and keep conversations smooth. You use these phrases for everyday use, whether you meet someone new or chat with friends. Let’s look at some of the most important ones.

Greetings

You use greetings every day. They help you start a conversation and make a good impression. Here are some of the most common greetings in Mandarin:

You can use “你好” when you meet someone. If you want to show extra respect, say “您好.” When you leave, “再见” is always a safe choice. “慢走” is a warm way to wish someone a safe trip home.

Everyday Expressions

You need more than greetings to keep a conversation going. These phrases for everyday use help you ask questions, thank people, and show good manners:

• 谢谢 (xièxie) – Thank you

• 不用谢 (bù yòng xiè) – You’re welcome

• 请 (qǐng) – Please

• 对不起 (duì bù qǐ) – Sorry

• 没关系 (méi guān xi) – It’s okay

• 打扰一下 (dǎ rǎo yí xià) – Excuse me / Sorry to bother you

• 能麻烦你帮我吗？(néng má fan nǐ bāng wǒ ma?) – Could you help me?

• 你吃了吗？(nǐ chī le ma?) – Have you eaten? (a common greeting)

• 周末过得怎样？(zhōu mò guò dé zěn yàng) – How was your weekend?

• 辛苦了 (xīn kǔ le) – Thanks for your hard work

You use these phrases for everyday use to show respect and kindness. In Chinese culture, polite words matter a lot. They help you keep good relationships and make people feel valued. When you say “谢谢” or “请,” you show that you care about others’ feelings. This makes your conversations smoother and more enjoyable.

Using the right phrases helps you build trust and connect with people. You sound more natural and confident every time you speak.

Food & Drink

When you travel or eat out in China, food and drink words help you every step of the way. You use them to order your favorite dish, ask for the bill, or chat with friends about what you like. Knowing these words makes dining and shopping much easier. You feel more confident, and you can enjoy every meal.

Foods

You see food words everywhere—on menus, in markets, and at home. When you know the basics, you can order what you want and try new things. Here are some common foods and useful dining words:

You use these words to order, pay, and talk to staff. For example, you can say “我要点菜” (wǒ yào diǎn cài) to order food. If you want to take leftovers home, just say “打包” (dǎ bāo).

Mastering food words helps you order with confidence and enjoy Chinese meals. You can share your preferences and try new dishes without worry.

Beverages

Drinks are a big part of Chinese culture. You see tea at every meal, and coffee shops are everywhere. Here are some common drinks:

You can ask, “你想喝什么？” (nǐ xiǎng hē shénme) for “What do you want to drink?” If you want tea, just say “我要茶” (wǒ yào chá).

Knowing drink words helps you order what you like and join in local traditions. You can chat with friends at a coffee shop or enjoy tea with family.

Learning food and drink words opens the door to Chinese culture. You can explore new tastes, make friends, and feel at home in any restaurant or market. Every meal becomes a chance to practice your Mandarin and connect with others.

Transportation

Modes of Transport

Getting around in China is easy when you know the right words for transportation. You use these words every day, whether you go to school, visit friends, or travel to new places. Let’s look at the most common ways to get from one place to another.

Here’s a table with popular transportation words in Mandarin. You’ll see the Chinese characters, pinyin, and the English meaning. This list helps you talk about buses, trains, cars, and more.

You use these words to talk about your daily commute or your next adventure. If you want to say you take the bus, you say “坐公共汽车” (zuò gōng gòng qì chē). When you ride a bike, you say “骑自行车” (qí zì xíng chē). If you drive a car, you use “开小汽车” (kāi xiǎo qì chē).

Tip: In Mandarin, you use different verbs for different vehicles. Use “坐” (zuò) for traveling by bus, train, or plane. Use “开” (kāi) when you drive. Use “骑” (qí) for riding bikes or motorcycles.

You need these words when you ask for directions, buy tickets, or talk about your trip. You might say, “我每天坐地铁去学校” (wǒ měi tiān zuò dì tiě qù xué xiào) – I take the subway to school every day. If you travel, you can ask, “你怎么去机场？” (nǐ zěnme qù jī chǎng) – How do you get to the airport?

Learning transportation words helps you move around with confidence. You can explore new places, meet new people, and enjoy your journey in China. 🚗🚆✈️

Chinese Vocabulary Learning with Coachers

Coachers Support

You want to learn Chinese vocabulary in a way that fits your life. Coachers gives you support every step of the way. You get lessons that match your style and pace. If you need help with speaking, reading, or writing, your coach will focus on those areas. You can ask questions and get answers right away. Your coach listens to your goals and helps you reach them faster.

Coachers only works with expert teachers. These coaches have advanced degrees and lots of experience. They know how to make learning fun and easy. You get tips and tricks that help you remember new words. Your coach shares strategies that work for real conversations. You feel confident every time you use your chinese vocabulary.

Here’s a quick look at what makes Coachers special:

You always have someone cheering for you. Your coach helps you stay motivated and tracks your progress. You see how much you improve with every lesson.

Flexible Online Learning

You want learning to fit your busy schedule. Coachers lets you choose when and how you study. You can join group classes or book private 1-on-1 sessions. You learn at home, at school, or even while traveling. The platform uses smart AI tools to make learning faster and more fun.

You get feedback after every lesson. You see your strengths and what you need to practice. You can join a community of learners who share tips and support. You never feel alone in your journey. Coachers helps you build your chinese vocabulary step by step.

You pick the plan that works for you. You can start with a free class or choose a monthly plan. You always know how much you are learning. You see your progress and feel proud of your achievements.

Learning chinese vocabulary with Coachers is easy, flexible, and fun. You get expert support, smart tools, and a friendly community. You reach your goals faster and enjoy every step of the way. 🚀

If you learn these 100 important Chinese words, you will feel more sure and speak better. Coachers has expert teachers and flexible lessons for talking every day or for work. Many students like learning more because they get personal help and join online events. You can earn a real certificate, which helps you get more jobs. Research says 82% of students learn as much as in-person classes. Are you ready to do your best? Start learning today! 🚀

FAQ

How do I remember Chinese words faster?

Try using flashcards and practice with real-life examples. You can say words out loud or write them down. If you use the words in daily conversations, you will remember them much better.

Tip: Review a few words every day. Small steps help you build strong memory!

Can I learn Chinese online with Coachers?

Yes! You can join Coachers for online lessons. You pick your schedule and study from anywhere. Expert coaches help you with speaking, reading, and writing. You get feedback and support every step of the way.

What if I make mistakes when speaking Chinese?

Mistakes help you learn. You should not worry. Your coach will guide you and give you tips. If you practice often, you will improve quickly. Everyone makes mistakes when learning a new language.

Do I need to know Chinese characters to start?

No, you can start with pinyin and basic words. You learn characters step by step. Coachers teaches you both pinyin and characters, so you build skills at your own pace.

How do I choose the right Coachers plan?

Check your goals and how much time you want to spend. You can start with a free class or pick a monthly plan. If you want more help, try 1-on-1 sessions. You always get expert support.