Traveling to China can be a thrilling adventure, but it’s always helpful to know a few basic phrases in Mandarin Chinese to navigate your way more smoothly. Here are some essential phrases and words that every tourist should learn before visiting China.
你好 (nǐ hǎo) – Hello
你好，很高兴见到你。
This is the most basic greeting in Chinese and appropriate to use with anyone you meet.
谢谢 (xiè xiè) – Thank you
这个礼物很棒，谢谢你！
Expressing gratitude is important in every culture, and in Chinese, “谢谢” is the way to go.
不客气 (bù kè qì) – You’re welcome
不客气，这是我应该做的。
This phrase is used in response to someone thanking you, meaning “don’t be polite” or “you’re welcome.”
对不起 (duì bu qǐ) – Sorry
对不起，我迟到了。
Whether you’ve bumped into someone or made a small mistake, saying sorry is polite and appreciated.
再见 (zài jiàn) – Goodbye
我们明天见，再见。
This is a common way to bid farewell, whether you’ll be seeing the person again soon or not.
洗手间在哪里？ (xǐ shǒu jiān zài nǎ lǐ?) – Where is the bathroom?
请问，洗手间在哪里？
A practical question that can be very necessary during travels.
这个多少钱？ (zhè ge duō shǎo qián?) – How much is this?
请问，这个多少钱？
When shopping or dining, this question will help you find out the price of an item or service.
我不会说中文 (wǒ bù huì shuō zhōng wén) – I don’t speak Chinese
对不起，我不会说中文。
A useful phrase to inform others that you do not speak the language, which can explain communication difficulties.
可以帮我吗？ (kě yǐ bāng wǒ ma?) – Can you help me?
我迷路了，你可以帮我吗？
If you’re lost or need assistance, this phrase is a polite way to ask for help.
我叫… (wǒ jiào…) – My name is…
你好，我叫约翰。
An introduction is always a good way to start a conversation; this phrase helps you tell others your name.
我想要这个 (wǒ xiǎng yào zhè ge) – I would like this
请给我这个，我想要这个。
Whether you’re shopping or ordering food, this phrase indicates your preference or choice.
我是美国人 (wǒ shì měi guó rén) – I am American
你好，我是美国人。
It can be helpful to identify your nationality, especially in tourist situations where you’re interacting with locals.
你会说英语吗？ (nǐ huì shuō yīng yǔ ma?) – Do you speak English?
请问，你会说英语吗？
This question can be essential if you’re looking for someone who speaks English to assist you.
请慢一点说 (qǐng màn yī diǎn shuō) – Please speak slowly
对不起，你能请慢一点说吗？
If you’re having trouble understanding rapid Mandarin, this phrase can make communication easier.
我不明白 (wǒ bù míng bái) – I don’t understand
对不起，我不明白你的意思。
When you’re confused or unable to comprehend something, this phrase can clarify that you need further explanation.
好的 (hǎo de) – Okay
好的，我会那样做。
This affirmative response is versatile and can be used in various situations to show agreement or understanding.
这里 (zhè lǐ) – Here
请把东西放在这里。
Directing someone to place something “here” or indicating your current location can be done with this simple word.
By familiarizing yourself with these basic Chinese phrases, your trip to China can become much more enjoyable and less daunting. Knowing how to communicate, even at a basic level, will open up opportunities to connect with locals and enrich your travel experience.
