In a city like New York, being able to greet or discuss work in Mandarin can be the key to deeper professional trust — especially when your colleagues or clients are from China.
For Sarah, a Senior Analyst at a FinTech firm in …
Walk into any modern office in Singapore — from the sleek towers of Marina Bay to the creative co-working spaces of Tanjong Pagar — and you’ll hear a familiar mix of English, Singlish, and Mandarin in daily conversations.
For expats and international professionals, this can …
Walk into any co-working space in London’s financial district, and you’ll notice something new — it’s not just coffee talk about AI or crypto anymore.
You’ll hear people practicing tones, repeating phrases like “nǐ hǎo” and “xièxie.”
Welcome to London’s Mandarin boom — a …
If you live in New York, you already know the city speaks every language. But one is becoming especially useful — Chinese.
From doing business with Chinese clients, to exploring Chinatown, or just making friends with your neighbors, a little Mandarin can go a …
If you spend time on Chinese social media, you might come across two popular buzzwords: “社牛 (shè niú)” and “社恐 (shè kǒng)”. They’re fun, expressive ways to describe how people behave in social situations — from the super outgoing to the painfully shy.
But what …
If you celebrate Chinese New Year with a local family, chances are dumplings will appear on the table. But why dumplings? To many, they‘re more than just tasty comfort food — they carry centuries of symbolism about wealth, reunion, and fresh beginnings.
Here‘s your step-by-step …
If you hang out on Chinese social media or chat with young people, you may hear the phrase “摆烂 (bǎi làn).” Literally, it means “let something rot,” but slang gives it a whole new flavor. In everyday life, “摆烂 (bǎi làn)” means giving up trying, …
Getting sick while traveling or living in China can be stressful—especially if you‘re not confident in your Chinese. From explaining your symptoms to buying medicine or asking for rest at work, knowing the right phrases can make all the difference.
Here‘s a guide to help …
Ever needed someone to join you for dinner, study, or even just to hit the gym—without being close friends? In Chinese slang, there‘s a perfect word for this: “搭子 (dā zi)”.
It literally means a “partner” or “companion,” but online it refers to a …
If you spend time on Chinese social media or chat with colleagues, you might notice people talking about “摸鱼 (mō yú)” a lot. Literally, it means “touching fish,” but in everyday life it‘s used to describe slacking off, taking it easy at work, or doing …
In China, after weddings, birthdays, or festivals, it‘s common to enjoy táng shuǐ (糖水, sweet soup). This comforting dessert isn‘t just a treat for your taste buds — it carries rich cultural meanings, symbolizing happiness, prosperity, and good luck.
For beginners, understanding when and why …
In Western culture, birthdays often mean cake, candles, and wishes. In China, there’s another special food that must appear on the table — cháng shòu miàn 长寿面(longevity noodles).
These noodles are not just delicious; they carry wishes of health, happiness, and a long life. Let’s …
Every year when the bright full moon rises in autumn, families across China gather to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. On the table, one food is always present — mooncakes. But why mooncakes? These sweet (sometimes savory) round pastries are more than just desserts — they …
Every year, the National Day Golden Week sends millions of travelers across China. It‘s one of the busiest — and most exciting — times to explore the country. Trains are packed, scenic spots are lively, and the atmosphere is filled with celebration.
But where should …
Every October 1st, China celebrates its National Day, marking the founding of the People‘s Republic of China. For locals, it‘s more than just a holiday—it kicks off Golden Week, a seven-day nationwide vacation when millions of people hit the road to visit family, …
Every year on October 1st, China celebrates its National Day (国庆节, Guó qìng Jié). Streets are filled with red flags, families travel across the country, and major landmarks light up with festive displays.
National Day also marks the start of Golden Week, …
Drinking tea in China is more than just a way to stay refreshed — it is a tradition that carries history, respect, and social connection. From family meals to business talks, tea is always there, quietly shaping the rhythm of daily life.
For beginners, understanding …
If you‘re at a dinner in China, chatting happily, when suddenly someone asks, “How old are you?” or “How much do you earn?” You pause, unsure how to respond.Don‘t worry! In China, these questions can come up quickly in conversation — not to be rude, …
The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the most important traditional holidays in China. Families gather, friends exchange mooncakes, and everyone takes a moment to admire the full moon. But for foreigners, joining these celebrations can feel tricky: What should you say when someone offers you …
Navigating public transportation in China can be tricky if you‘re new to the language. Subways, buses, and taxis are fast and convenient, but without the right phrases and cultural know-how, a simple ride can become stressful. Knowing how to speak, pay, and behave like a …
