How to Learn Basic Chinese Words and Phrases for Everyday Life

If you want to get started with basic Chinese, you’ll find a few words and phrases come up all the time. Here are some you’ll hear almost every day:

• 你好 (Nǐ hǎo): Hello

• 謝謝 (Xièxiè): Thank you

• 請 (Qǐng): Please

• 對不起 (Duìbùqǐ): Sorry

• 再見 (Zàijiàn): Goodbye

• 你會說英文嗎 (Nǐ huì shuō yīngwén ma): Can you speak English?

• 這個是多少錢 (Zhège duōshǎo qián): How much is this?

Getting the pronunciation right from the start matters. Try using flashcards or spaced repetition to help these words stick. You can make steady progress by practicing a little every day. Coachers.org gives you flexible, online coaching so you can master everyday Chinese no matter where you are. You’ll soon see that learning basic Chinese is not only possible but also fun and helpful for daily life, travel, or work.

Key Takeaways

• Begin with basic Chinese words and phrases like 你好 (Hello) and 谢谢 (Thank you). This helps you build a strong base.

• Use flashcards or spaced repetition to practice saying words. This helps you remember them better.

• Say polite phrases when you talk to others. This shows respect and helps you make friends in Chinese culture.

• Talk with native speakers on sites like Coachers.org. This gives you real practice.

• Practice every day, even if it is only 15 minutes. This can make you feel more confident and help your language skills grow.

Basic Chinese Words

When you start learning basic Chinese, you’ll notice some words pop up everywhere. These words help you talk about yourself, others, and things around you. You’ll use them in almost every sentence. Let’s break down the most important ones so you can build your vocabulary fast.

Pronouns & Core Vocabulary

You use pronouns every day. They help you say things like “I am here” or “She is my friend.” Here’s a quick table with the most common pronouns and core words in Chinese. You’ll see the Chinese character, the pinyin (how to say it), and the English meaning.

You’ll use these basic Chinese words in almost every conversation. For example, you might say “我是学生” (wǒ shì xuéshēng) which means “I am a student.” Or you could ask “你在这里吗?” (nǐ zài zhèli ma?) which means “Are you here?”

Tip: If you want to review these words quickly, you can use online dictionaries like the Oxford Chinese Dictionary or the ABC Chinese-English Dictionary. These resources show you pinyin, characters, and even stroke order. They make learning basic Chinese much easier.

Coachers.org helps you practice these words in real conversations. You get personalized feedback and can join group sessions to use your new vocabulary with others. This makes learning basic Chinese words feel natural and fun.

Everyday Verbs

Verbs are action words. You need them to talk about what you do every day. Here are some of the most useful verbs in Chinese:

• 吃 (chī): eat

• 喝 (hē): drink

• 去 (qù): go

• 来 (lái): come

• 看 (kàn): look, watch

• 说 (shuō): speak, say

• 做 (zuò): do, make

• 要 (yào): want

• 喜欢 (xǐhuān): like

• 能 (néng): can, be able to

You can use these verbs with the pronouns above. Try saying “我吃饭” (wǒ chī fàn) for “I eat rice” or “你喜欢这个吗?” (nǐ xǐhuān zhège ma?) for “Do you like this?”

If you want to remember these basic Chinese words, try making flashcards or using spaced repetition apps. You’ll find that practicing with a coach from Coachers.org helps you use these verbs in real-life phrases and conversations.

Note: You don’t need to memorize everything at once. Start with a few words each day. Use them in sentences. Ask questions. The more you use basic Chinese words, the easier it gets.

Essential Phrases

When you start learning the basics of the Chinese language, you’ll notice that certain phrases come up all the time. These phrases help you greet people, show respect, and introduce yourself in different social situations. Let’s look at some of the most useful Chinese phrases in social situations, organized by theme. You’ll find the Chinese characters, pinyin, English meaning, and simple examples to help you remember them.

Greetings

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

• 你好 (nǐ hǎo) – Hello

• 您好 (nín hǎo) – Hello (formal, for elders or authority)

• 嗨 (hāi) – Hi (casual, with friends)

• 哈喽 (hā lou) – Hello (playful, popular with young people)

• 嘿 (hēi) – Hey (informal, with peers)

• 早上好 (zǎoshang hǎo) – Good morning

• 下午好 (xiàwǔ hǎo) – Good afternoon

• 晚上好 (wǎnshàng hǎo) – Good evening

• 再见 (zàijiàn) – Goodbye

• 回头见 (huítóu jiàn) – See you later

Tip: If you want to ask “how do you say this in Chinese?” just say: 这个中文怎么说？(zhège zhōngwén zěnme shuō?)

Here’s a quick table for easy review:

You can use these greetings with anyone. If you want to sound more polite, use 您好 (nín hǎo) with teachers or older people.

Polite Expressions

Politeness is important in Chinese culture. Using polite expressions shows respect and helps you build good relationships. Here are some basic Chinese phrases you’ll use often:

• 谢谢 (xièxiè) – Thank you

• 不用谢 (bù yòng xiè) – You’re welcome

• 请 (qǐng) – Please

• 对不起 (duìbùqǐ) – Sorry

• 没关系 (méi guānxi) – It’s okay / No problem

• 打扰一下 (dǎrǎo yíxià) – Excuse me / Sorry to bother you

• 慢走 (mànzǒu) – Take care (said when someone leaves)

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

Note: In Chinese, people often ask “have you eaten?” as a way to say “how are you?” It’s a friendly way to check in.

Try these in real life:

• 你吃了吗？(nǐ chī le ma?)

• 谢谢你的帮助！(xièxiè nǐ de bāngzhù!) – Thank you for your help!

• 对不起，我迟到了。(duìbùqǐ, wǒ chídào le.) – Sorry, I’m late.

If you want to practice these polite expressions, you can join a group session on Coachers.org. You’ll get to use your new Chinese vocabulary with real people.

Introducing Yourself

Introducing yourself is one of the first things you’ll do when meeting someone new. Here’s how you can do it in Chinese:

1. Start with a greeting: 你好 (nǐ hǎo) or 您好 (nín hǎo) for formal situations.

2. Say your name:

   • 我叫 [your name] (wǒ jiào [your name]) – My name is [your name].

   • 我的名字叫 [your name] (wǒ de míngzi jiào [your name]) – My name is [your name].

   • 我是 [your name] (wǒ shì [your name]) – I am [your name].

3. Ask for their name: 你叫什么名字？(nǐ jiào shénme míngzi?) – What is your name?

4. Finish with: 很高兴认识你 (hěn gāoxìng rènshi nǐ) – Nice to meet you.

Here’s a sample conversation:

A: 你好！我叫王明。你叫什么名字？  
(Nǐ hǎo! Wǒ jiào Wáng Míng. Nǐ jiào shénme míngzi?)  
Hello! My name is Wang Ming. What is your name?

B: 你好，王明。我是李华。很高兴认识你！  
(Nǐ hǎo, Wáng Míng. Wǒ shì Lǐ Huá. Hěn gāoxìng rènshi nǐ!)  
Hello, Wang Ming. I am Li Hua. Nice to meet you!

Tip: In formal settings, use 您 (nín) instead of 你 (nǐ) to show respect. For example, 很高兴认识您 (hěn gāoxìng rènshi nín).

Learning these basic Chinese phrases will help you feel more confident in any situation. You’ll find it easier to make friends, ask questions, and join conversations. If you want to expand your Chinese vocabulary and practice with others, Coachers.org offers personalized coaching and group sessions. You can master the basics of the Chinese language and use them in real life.

Most Common Chinese Words for Daily Life

When you use Chinese in real life, you need the most common Chinese words and phrases for daily routines. These words help you shop, eat out, and ask for help. You will hear them everywhere, so they are great for building your basic Chinese vocabulary.

Asking for Help

You might need help when you travel or shop. Here are some frequently used Chinese words and phrases that make it easy to ask questions or get someone’s attention:

You can say, “请问，地铁站在哪里？” (qǐng wèn, dì tiě zhàn zài nǎ lǐ?) for “Excuse me, where is the subway station?” If you don’t understand, just say, “我不懂.” People will often reply with “不用谢” or “你’re welcome.” If you make a mistake, say “对不起” or “I’m sorry.”

If you want to practice these phrases, join a Coachers.org group session. You can ask questions, say thank you, and use excuse me in real conversations.

Numbers & Counting

You need numbers for shopping, dining, and travel. Here are the most common Chinese words for numbers:

You will use these when you ask, “这个多少钱？” (zhè ge duō shǎo qián?) which means “How much is it?” In a restaurant, you might say, “请给我菜单” (qǐng gěi wǒ cài dān) or “买单” (mǎi dān) for the check. If you want to know the price, just ask, “how much?” and say thank you when you get an answer.

Practicing these frequently used Chinese words in real situations helps you remember them. Coachers.org gives you a chance to use these phrases with native speakers and get feedback.

Frequently Used Chinese Words in Shopping & Food

Shopping

Shopping in a Chinese market or store can feel exciting. You will use some words and phrases again and again. Here is a table to help you remember the most useful ones:

You might say, “请问，这个多少钱？” (qǐng wèn, zhège duōshǎo qián?) for “How much is this?” If you want a better price, try “便宜一点” (piányi yīdiǎn), which means “cheaper.” When you finish shopping, ask for your receipt with “小票.”

Here is a quick sample dialogue:

A: 你好！请问，这个多少钱？
(Nǐ hǎo! Qǐng wèn, zhège duōshǎo qián?)
Hello! How much is this?

B: 一百块。
(Yī bǎi kuài.)
One hundred yuan.

A: 太贵了，可以便宜一点吗？
(Tài guìle, kěyǐ piányi yīdiǎn ma?)
Too expensive, can it be cheaper?

Role-play helps you practice these Chinese phrases in real situations. Coachers.org uses scenario-based learning, so you can act out shopping trips and get instant feedback. This makes learning Chinese more fun and helps you remember new words.

Food & Dining

Ordering food in Chinese is a great way to use your new vocabulary. Here are some words you will need at a restaurant:

Try this sample conversation:

A: 服务员，请给我菜单。
(Fúwùyuán, qǐng gěi wǒ càidān.)
Waiter, please give me the menu.

B: 好的，请稍等。
(Hǎo de, qǐng shāo děng.)
Okay, please wait a moment.

A: 我要点菜。这个和那个。
(Wǒ yào diǎn cài. Zhège hé nàge.)
I want to order. This one and that one.

B: 需要结账吗？
(Xūyào jié zhàng ma?)
Do you want to pay the bill?

When you practice these Chinese phrases in a real setting, you remember them better. Role-play and games at Coachers.org put you in real-life situations, so you learn by doing. This active involvement makes learning Chinese easier and more enjoyable.

Phrases for Directions & Emergencies

When you travel or live in a new place, you often need to ask for directions or handle emergencies. Knowing the right Chinese phrases can help you feel safe and confident. Let’s look at some useful words and sentences you can use every day.

Directions

If you get lost or want to find a place, you can start with “请问” (qǐng wèn), which means “excuse me” or “may I ask.” This is a polite way to get someone’s attention in Chinese.

Here are some common phrases for asking and understanding directions:

• 请问，地铁站在哪里？(qǐng wèn, dìtiě zhàn zài nǎlǐ?)
  Excuse me, where is the subway station?

• 一直走 (yìzhí zǒu) – Go straight

• 左拐 (zuǒ guǎi) – Turn left

• 右拐 (yòu guǎi) – Turn right

• 前面 (qiánmiàn) – In front

• 路口 (lùkǒu) – Crossroad

• 远吗？(yuǎn ma?) – Is it far?

• 近吗？(jìn ma?) – Is it close?

• 这边？(zhè biān?) – This way?

• 那边？(nà biān?) – That way?

Try saying: “请问，医院怎么走？” (qǐng wèn, yīyuàn zěnme zǒu?) – Excuse me, how do I get to the hospital?

You might also hear these phrases when someone gives you directions:

Learning these Chinese phrases helps you move around the city with ease.

Emergency Situations

Emergencies can happen anytime. If you know some basic Chinese words, you can ask for help quickly. Here are some important phrases:

• 救命啊! (jiùmìng a!) – Help!

• 请帮帮我! (qǐng bāng bāng wǒ!) – Please help me!

• 我需要医生。 (wǒ xūyào yīshēng.) – I need a doctor.

• 我迷路了。 (wǒ mílù le.) – I am lost.

• 请叫救护车。 (qǐng jiào jiùhù chē.) – Please call an ambulance.

• 我需要警察帮忙。 (wǒ xūyào jǐngchá bāngmáng.) – I need the police.

• 这里有火灾。 (zhèlǐ yǒu huǒzāi.) – There’s a fire.

• 小心! (xiǎoxīn!) – Watch out!

• 快点! (kuài diǎn!) – Hurry!

If you ever feel sick, say “我很痛” (wǒ hěn tòng) for “I am in pain” or “我感到头晕” (wǒ gǎndào tóuyūn) for “I feel dizzy.”

You can also say your address: “我的地址是…” (wǒ de dìzhǐ shì…) – My address is…

By learning these Chinese phrases, you can handle many situations and stay safe. Practice them often so you remember what to say when you need help.

Pronunciation & Memorization Tips

Pinyin Basics

If you want to sound natural in Chinese, you need to learn pinyin. Pinyin uses the Roman alphabet to show how to say Chinese words. It helps you match sounds with written characters. This makes it easier to speak and understand Chinese, even if you cannot read all the characters yet.

• Pinyin breaks words into syllables. This helps you say short and long words clearly.

• You use pinyin to type Chinese on your phone or computer. It is useful for daily life.

• Pinyin lets you work on pronunciation. This is important for learning tones and not mixing up words.

When you practice pinyin, you build a strong base for learning. You will find it easier to talk and learn new words.

Memorization Techniques

Learning new Chinese words can be hard, but there are good ways to help you. Here are some tips to make new words stick:

• Spaced repetition: Review words at different times. Apps like Anki remind you to practice before you forget.

• Flashcards: Use cards to quiz yourself. This helps you remember better.

• Associative learning: Connect new words to things you know. For example, link “猫” (māo) to your own cat.

• Mnemonic devices: Make up stories or funny pictures to help you remember hard words.

• Rote learning: Say words out loud or write them many times for short-term memory.

Try using flashcards with spaced repetition for the best results. Make cards for characters, pinyin, and meanings. Add pictures or jokes to help you remember.

Talking with native speakers is also very helpful. You get real practice, better pronunciation, and learn about culture. Coachers.org makes this easy with fun exercises, group support, and personal coaching. Here is how Coachers.org helps you:

With these tips, learning Chinese words and phrases will be easier and more fun.

If you learn basic Chinese, you can travel more easily. It helps you in daily life and at work. You meet new people and stand out when you look for jobs. Here are some reasons why it is important:

• You talk better with others and learn about their culture.

• Mandarin helps you do well in business and technology.

• Practicing for 15 minutes each day makes you feel more sure of yourself.

Coachers.org lets you get help from coaches anywhere. If you want to teach, you can become a certified Coacher.
Start learning today! http://coachers.org/?ref=coachers.org

FAQ

How long does it take to learn basic Chinese words and phrases?

You can start using simple Chinese words and phrases in just a few days. If you practice every day, you will see real progress in a few weeks. Consistency is key!

Do I need to learn Chinese characters right away?

No, you can start with pinyin and spoken Chinese. Learning characters helps later, but you can communicate using pinyin first. Focus on speaking and listening at the beginning.

What if I make mistakes when speaking Chinese?

Don’t worry! Everyone makes mistakes. People will appreciate your effort. The more you practice, the better you get. Mistakes help you learn faster.

How can Coachers.org help me learn Chinese faster?

Coachers.org gives you live practice with real coaches. You get feedback, join group sessions, and use interactive tools. This makes learning Chinese fun and effective.

Can I learn Chinese online from anywhere?

Absolutely! You can join Coachers.org sessions from any place with internet. You choose your schedule and learn at your own pace. It’s flexible and easy.