How to Use Common Chinese Words in Everyday Conversation

You want to start using Chinese in real conversation, right? Learning just a few common Chinese words can make a huge difference. Check out this quick table—these are some of the words you’ll use every day:

As a beginner, you might worry about tricky tones or pronunciation. Don’t stress! Coachers.org gives you personalized coaching, so you can practice at your pace and learn from anywhere. You’ll feel confident using these words in no time.

Key Takeaways

• Start using common Chinese words like 你好 (nǐ hǎo) to say hello. This can help make your talks better. Practice polite words like 请 (qǐng) for 'please' and 谢谢 (xièxiè) for 'thank you.' These words help you sound nice and respectful. Learn easy question words like 什么 (shénme) for 'what' and 哪里 (nǎlǐ) for 'where.' These words help you ask for things or places. Use important verbs like 买 (mǎi) for 'buy' and 点 (diǎn) for 'order.' These words help you tell others what you need every day. Try personalized coaching at Coachers.org to use these phrases in real life. This will help you feel more sure when you speak.

Greetings and Polite Expressions

Common Chinese Word for Hello

You want to greet someone in Chinese, right? The most common Chinese word you’ll use is 你好 (nǐ hǎo), which means "hello." If you want to sound more polite, especially with elders or in formal settings, you can say 您好 (nín hǎo). When you meet someone for the first time, you might say 很高兴认识你 (hěn gāoxìng rènshi nǐ), which means "pleased to meet you." In the morning, you can greet people with 早上好 (zǎoshang hǎo) for "good morning." If you want to ask "how are you," just say 你好吗 (nǐ hǎo ma). When someone asks, you can reply with 我很好 (wǒ hěn hǎo), which means "I’m fine."

Tip: Coachers.org helps you practice these basic Chinese words in real conversations, so you’ll feel comfortable greeting anyone.

Basic Chinese Words for Politeness

Polite phrases make every conversation smoother. You’ll use 请 (qǐng) for "please" and 谢谢 (xièxie) for "thank you." If you want someone to wait, say 稍等 (shāoděng), which means "one moment." When you leave, you can say 慢走 (mànzǒu), which means "take care." If you’re eating with friends, 慢慢吃 (mànmàn chī) means "take your time eating." These basic Chinese words help you sound friendly and respectful.

• 请 (please)

• 谢谢 (thank you)

• 稍等 (one moment)

• 慢走 (take care)

• 慢慢吃 (take your time eating)

Chinese greetings change depending on who you talk to. Formal greetings like 您好 show respect, while informal greetings like 你好 work with friends. Context matters, so you’ll learn when to use each phrase during your lessons at Coachers.org.

Thank You and Apologies

You’ll say 谢谢 (thank you) often. If someone thanks you, reply with 不用谢 (bù yòng xiè), which means "you are welcome." When you need to apologize, use 对不起 (duìbuqǐ) for "I’m sorry." If someone says sorry to you, you can answer with 没关系 (méiguānxi), meaning "no problem." Sometimes you might say 打扰一下 (dǎrǎo yíxià) if you need to interrupt politely. In Chinese culture, people use these phrases to keep conversations respectful and open.

Coachers.org teaches you how to use these phrases in everyday life, so you’ll sound natural whether you’re a beginner or just want to improve.

Here’s a quick table for reference:

Basic Chinese Words for Questions

Question Words

You want to ask questions in Chinese, right? You’ll use some basic Chinese words every day. Here are the most common question words you’ll hear and use:

1. 什么 (shén me) – What

2. 什么时候 (shén me shí hou) – When

3. 为什么 (wèi shén me) – Why

4. 谁 (shéi) – Who

5. 谁的 (shéi de) – Whose

6. 哪里 / 哪儿 (nǎ lǐ / nǎr) – Where

7. 多少钱 (duō shao qián) – How much

8. 多少次 (duō shao cì) – How many times

9. 多久 / 多长时间 (duō jiǔ / duō cháng shí jiān) – How long

10. 多久...一次？(duō jiǔ... yī cì) – How often

You can use these words to ask things like “what is your name?” or “where is the bathroom?” If you don’t understand something, just say “i don’t understand” (我听不懂 wǒ tīng bù dǒng). If you want to know how to say something, ask “how do you say this in Chinese?” (这个中文怎么说 zhè ge zhōngwén zěnme shuō). These phrases help you start conversations and get the answers you need.

Tip: At Coachers.org, you get to practice these questions in real-life scenarios. You’ll learn how to ask “what do you mean?” or “how much does this cost?” with confidence.

Pronouns

Pronouns help you talk about yourself and others. You use them all the time in daily speech. Here’s a quick table to show how pronouns work in Chinese sentences:

• In casual speech, you can drop the particle 的. For example, say 我妈回来了 (My mom is back) instead of 我的妈妈回来了.

• This makes your speech sound more natural and friendly.

You’ll use pronouns like 我 (I), 你 (you), 他/她 (he/she), 我们 (we), and 他们 (they) every day. Coachers.org helps you practice these basic Chinese words in conversations, so you can talk about yourself, your friends, and your family with ease.

Key Verbs and Simple Phrases

Expressing Wants

You use verbs every day to say what you want or need. In Chinese, some verbs pop up all the time. If you want to buy something, you say 买 (mǎi). When you order food, you use 点 (diǎn). To pay, you say 付 (fù). Maybe you want to exchange something—just say 换 (huàn). If you want to taste something new, use 尝 (cháng). Sometimes you need to take something, so you say 拿 (ná). Want to look at something? Use 看 (kàn).

Here’s a quick table to help you remember these basic chinese phrases:

You can mix these verbs with pronouns and objects to make simple sentences. For example, “我买这个” (wǒ mǎi zhè ge) means “I buy this.” You get to practice these in real-life scenarios at Coachers.org.

Making Requests

You want to ask for something politely, right? Chinese has easy phrases for that. Start with 请 (qǐng), which means “please.” If you want to get someone’s attention, say excuse me. You can use 请问 (qǐng wèn) for “excuse me, may I ask.” These phrases help you sound friendly and respectful.

• 请 (qǐng) – Please

• 请问 (qǐng wèn) – Excuse me / May I ask

• 你可以帮我...吗？ (nǐ kěyǐ bāng wǒ ... ma?) – Would you help me...?

• 请帮我个忙。 (qǐng bāng wǒ gè máng) – Please help me with a favor.

You can use these phrases when you order food, ask for directions, or need help in a store. Coachers.org uses scenario-based learning, so you get to role-play and practice making requests until you feel confident.

Asking for Help

Sometimes you need help. You might say excuse me to get someone’s attention. Use 帮助 (bāng zhù) if you need help. If you get lost, say 我迷路了 (wǒ mí lù le). For emergencies, you can say 我需要医生 (wǒ xū yào yī shēng) if you need a doctor. If you need someone to make a phone call for you, say 请帮我打电话 (qǐng bāng wǒ dǎ diàn huà).

Tip: You can always start with excuse me before asking for help. People appreciate it when you use polite words like thank you after they help you.

Coachers.org helps you practice these basic chinese phrases in real conversations. You learn how to ask for help, make requests, and express your needs in everyday life.

Common Chinese Words for Everyday Scenarios

Shopping Phrases

Shopping in China feels easy when you know the right words. You use frequently used Chinese words to ask about prices, materials, and locations. Here’s a table with some of the most practical phrases you’ll need:

You might walk into a store and say, “这件多少钱？” (How much is this piece?). If you want a better deal, try, “简直太贵了! 给我便宜点吧!” The shopkeeper may smile and offer a discount. At Coachers.org, you practice these conversations with real coaches, so you feel ready for any shopping trip.

Tip: Label items at home with their Chinese names. This helps you remember frequently used Chinese words every day.

Dining Phrases

Eating out in China is fun when you know the basic Chinese words for ordering and paying. Here’s a table with phrases you’ll use at restaurants:

Imagine you walk into a restaurant. The host greets you with “欢迎!” You reply, “两位” (two people). When you order, you say, “我要…” and add your favorite dish. If you want to pay, just say, “买单!” Coachers.org uses role-play to help you practice these dining scenarios, so you never feel lost at the table.

Note: Keeping a diary in Chinese about your meals helps you remember these common Chinese words.

Transportation Phrases

Traveling around a city in China gets easier when you use frequently used Chinese words for directions and transport. Here’s a table with phrases you’ll need:

You might ask, “请问，最近的公交车站在哪里？” (Excuse me, where is the nearest bus stop?). If you want to go somewhere, say, “我要去…” and add your destination. Coachers.org coaches use group activities and real-life maps to help you practice these phrases, so you travel with confidence.

Try using flashcards for these transportation phrases. Regular review helps you remember the most frequently used Chinese words.

Emergency Phrases

Emergencies can happen anytime. Knowing the right words helps you stay calm and get help fast. Here are some basic Chinese words and phrases for emergencies:

• 救命！(Jiùmìng!) – Help!

• 报警！(Bàojǐng!) – Call the police!

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

• 最近的医院在哪里？(Zuìjìn de yīyuàn zài nǎli?) – Where is the nearest hospital?

• 我迷路了。(Wǒ mílù le.) – I am lost.

• 你可以帮我吗？(Nǐ kěyǐ bāng wǒ ma?) – Can you help me?

• 我找不到回酒店的路。(Wǒ zhǎobúdào huí jiǔdiàn de lù.) – I can't find the way back to my hotel.

• 附近有药店吗？(Fùjìn yǒu yàodiàn ma?) – Is there a pharmacy nearby?

• Stop, thief! 抓贼！(Zhuā zéi!)

• Fire! 着火！(Zháohuŏ!)

• Call an ambulance! 叫救护车！(Jiào jiùhùchē!)

• I am sick. 我病了。(Wŏ bìng le.)

You might shout, “救命!” if you need urgent help. If you feel sick, say, “我需要医生.” Coachers.org coaches use role-plays to help you practice these emergency phrases, so you know what to say when it matters most.

Practicing with native speakers and regular feedback from your coach helps you remember these common Chinese words for emergencies.

How Coachers.org Helps You Master Everyday Scenarios

You learn best when you practice real conversations. Coachers.org uses personalized coaching to help you remember frequently used Chinese words. You get regular quizzes and feedback, so you know what to focus on. Coaches encourage you to label things at home in Chinese, keep a diary, and join group role-plays. These methods make learning basic Chinese words part of your daily life. You build confidence and use these phrases naturally, whether you’re shopping, eating out, traveling, or facing an emergency.

Example Dialogues Using Basic Chinese Words

Practicing dialogues helps you remember new words and use them in real life. When you act out conversations, you get to hear how sentences sound and learn the flow of everyday speech. You build confidence and improve your listening skills. Coachers.org uses role-play and interactive lessons, so you can practice these phrases with real people.

At the Store

You walk into a shop and want to buy something. Here’s a simple dialogue:

Coachers.org lets you practice bargaining and asking questions, so you feel ready for any shopping trip.

In a Restaurant

Ordering food is easy when you know the right phrases. Try this dialogue:

• You: 请问，有菜单吗？ (qǐng wèn, yǒu cài dān ma?) – Excuse me, do you have a menu?

• Waiter: 有，这是菜单。 (yǒu, zhè shì cài dān.) – Yes, here’s the menu.

• You: 我要一份炒饭。 (wǒ yào yí fèn chǎo fàn.) – I’d like one fried rice.

• Waiter: 还要别的吗？ (hái yào bié de ma?) – Anything else?

• You: 不用了，谢谢。 (bù yòng le, xiè xie.) – No, thank you.

You can role-play ordering food with your coach and get feedback on pronunciation.

On Public Transport

Getting around the city is simple when you use basic Chinese words. Here’s a quick exchange:

You: 请问，地铁站在哪里？ (qǐng wèn, dì tiě zhàn zài nǎ lǐ?)
Local: 在前面左边。 (zài qián miàn zuǒ biān.)
You: 谢谢！ (xiè xie!)

Coachers.org uses maps and real-life scenarios, so you learn how to ask for directions and understand answers.

In an Emergency

If you need help, use these phrases:

1. You: 救命！(jiù mìng!) – Help!

2. Bystander: 你怎么了？(nǐ zěn me le?) – What happened?

3. You: 我迷路了。(wǒ mí lù le.) – I am lost.

4. Bystander: 我帮你。(wǒ bāng nǐ.) – I’ll help you.

You can practice emergency dialogues with your coach, so you know what to say if something goes wrong.

Practicing these dialogues helps you use Chinese in real situations. You learn the most useful phrases and get comfortable speaking. Coachers.org makes learning fun and interactive.

Quick Reference Table of Common Chinese Words and Phrases

You want a handy guide you can check anytime, right? Here’s your quick reference for the most useful Chinese words and phrases. This section helps you find what you need fast, whether you’re greeting someone, asking a question, or getting help in a new place.

Greetings and Polite Expressions

You use greetings every day. These phrases help you start conversations and show respect.

• 你好 (nǐ hǎo) – Hello

• 再见 (zài jiàn) – Goodbye

• 早上好 (zǎo shàng hǎo) – Good morning

• 晚上好 (wǎn shàng hǎo) – Good evening

• 谢谢 (xiè xiè) – Thank you

• 不客气 (bú kèqì) – You’re welcome

• 对不起 (duì bu qǐ) – Sorry

• 没关系 (méi guānxi) – It’s okay

• 我叫… (wǒ jiào…) – My name is…

• 很高兴认识你 (hěn gāoxìng rènshi nǐ) – Nice to meet you

Tip: Use these phrases to make a good first impression.

Question Words and Pronouns

You ask questions to learn and connect. Here are the most common Chinese words for questions and pronouns:

• 什么 (shénme) – What

• 谁 (shéi) – Who

• 哪里 (nǎlǐ) – Where

• 什么时候 (shénme shíhou) – When

• 为什么 (wèi shénme) – Why

• 怎么 (zěnme) – How

• 我 (wǒ) – I/me

• 你 (nǐ) – You

• 他/她 (tā) – He/She

• 我们 (wǒmen) – We

• 他们 (tāmen) – They

Useful Verbs and Phrases

You use verbs to say what you want or need. Here’s a list to help you in daily life:

• 买 (mǎi) – Buy

• 点 (diǎn) – Order (food)

• 付 (fù) – Pay

• 帮助 (bāngzhù) – Help

• 去 (qù) – Go

• 看 (kàn) – Look

• 要 (yào) – Want

Here’s a table to show you how these phrases fit into real situations:

You can use this quick reference to practice every common chinese word you need for daily conversation. Keep it nearby when you chat, shop, or travel.

Why Choose Coachers.org for Learning Chinese

Personalized Coaching

You want to learn Chinese your way, right? Coachers.org gives you personalized coaching that fits your needs. You get to choose what you want to focus on, whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills. Your coach helps you set goals and reach them at your own pace. Take a look at how personalized coaching works for you:

You get support that makes learning easier and more fun. Your coach helps you practice new phrases until you feel confident.

Flexible Online Learning

You want to learn from anywhere, anytime. Coachers.org makes that possible. You don’t have to sit in a classroom or follow a strict schedule. You can study at home, at a café, or even while traveling. Here’s what makes online learning so flexible:

• Study at your own pace, no rush.

• Choose lessons that match your learning style.

• Join from any location, no need to commute.

• Fit learning into your daily routine.

If you’re a beginner, you’ll love how easy it is to start. You get to learn Chinese without any pressure.

Group and Private Sessions

You can pick group sessions if you like learning with others. You get to share tips, practice conversations, and make friends. If you prefer one-on-one lessons, private sessions give you more attention from your coach. Both options use interactive tools like quizzes and exercises. You get real-time feedback, so you know what to work on next. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, you’ll find a session that fits your level.

Tip: Group sessions help you practice speaking with other learners. Private sessions let you focus on your personal goals.

Become a Coacher

Do you want to help others learn Chinese? Coachers.org offers a path for you to become a certified Coacher. You get training, support, and the chance to teach online. You can choose your schedule and work from anywhere. If you’re a beginner teacher, you get guidance to build your skills. You join a community that values growth and learning.

Coachers.org gives you everything you need to succeed, whether you’re learning or teaching Chinese.

You build real confidence when you use a common chinese word in daily life. Simple greetings like 你好 and 谢谢 help you connect with others. You feel ready to talk about food, ask questions, or just say hello. With Coachers.org, you get flexible plans, expert teachers, and fun tools that make learning easy. Ready to start your journey? Join Coachers.org today!

• Master greetings and polite phrases for smooth conversations.

• Upgrade your skills with interactive lessons and expert support.

FAQ

How do I start learning Chinese with Coachers.org?

You just sign up online. Pick your plan. Join your first free class. You meet your coach and start practicing right away. You can learn from anywhere.

Tip: Try a free session to see how it works!

Can I choose what topics I want to learn?

Yes! You tell your coach what you want to focus on. You can pick daily conversation, travel phrases, or business Chinese. Your lessons match your goals.

What if I have trouble with pronunciation?

Your coach helps you practice speaking. You get feedback and tips. You can listen to recordings and repeat after your coach. You improve with every session.

Are group or private sessions better for beginners?

Both work well. Group sessions let you talk with other learners. Private sessions give you more attention. You can try both and see which feels best for you.