Chinese Culture - Speechling Official Blog

9 Essential Chinese Words without Direct English Translations

One of my favorite things about learning new languages is discovering words that do not translate directly into English, my native language. Each of these words feels like a revelation: a new way of expressing myself and thinking about the world. I enjoy the mental challenge of explaining these words

Mandarin

Learn Chinese Misconceptions about Foreigners before You Travel to China

Unfortunately, it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking in stereotypes, whether or not these beliefs reflect reality. We may not even realize we believe a stereotype, but it can impact the way we treat other people. This is especially true of stereotypes about groups of people with whom

Mandarin

How to Wish Someone Happy Birthday and Celebrate in Mandarin

Western birthday traditions like singing “Happy Birthday” and blowing out candles on a cake haven’t been around for very long. In fact, up until the latter half of the 19th century, most people didn’t celebrate birthdays. Some cultures marked birthdays for rulers or prominent members of the upper

Mandarin

3 Classical Chinese Poems You Must Know for Learning Mandarin

Many Chinese people cherish classical Chinese poetry, despite the fact that some of the most famous works were composed over a thousand years ago. Chinese Poetry Congress is a prime-time game show that has been running in China since 2016. Contestants from all walks of life - from professors to

Mandarin

7 Major Chinese Holidays Mandarin Learners Must Know

As one of the oldest civilizations in the world, China has a long list of traditional holidays the nation and its people celebrate. Here are seven major Chinese holidays and the traditions that follow.

Mandarin

Top 8 Tips and Tricks to Make Friends in Chinese

Learning Chinese is important but difficult. What are the right ways to study Mandarin? Making friends is definitely one of the best ways. Generally, language is an incredible tool for forming relationships. It grants the ability to literally communicate to people in new ways which can be incredibly powerful. For

Mandarin

How to Learn Chengyu Through Chinese Zodiac Animals

When learning Chinese, the idioms known as "chengyu" can be difficult to learn, memorize, and use correctly. There are hundreds and thousands of them! One of the best ways to master chengyu is to associate them with memorable things, such as the iconic animals of the Chinese zodiac.

Mandarin

Chinese Learner's Guide to the Dragon Boat Festival

What is the Dragon Boat Festival? As the heat of summer approaches, so too does this historic Chinese holiday, also known as 端午节 (duānwǔjié - Dragon Boat Festival). In this article, you can learn key Chinese phrases about this holiday. If you're lucky, you can practice them at a real

Mandarin

Chinese Conversation Tips: How to Talk to Strangers

When you're ready to take your Mandarin Chinese skills to the streets for some real life practice, how do you address people you've never met? Make sure you get off on the right foot and read these tips!

Mandarin

Three Classic Chinese Games to Help You Learn Mandarin

Curious about classic Chinese games? Check the article for details, history and instructions!

Mandarin

The Ultimate Guide to Chinese Food and Dishes for Mandarin Learners

Eating to learn, learning to eat as a Mandarin Chinese learner Chinese food is often the keystone in many people's lives. A solid foundation of food vocabulary will boost your Chinese speaking capabilities and is sure to lubricate many a conversation. Food is paramount in China, and many diverse cultures

Mandarin

Being Polite in Chinese: Watch Out for These 3 Important Things

Here are some things to be aware of when learning to speak Chinese in a setting where politeness counts.

Mandarin

The Ultimate Guide to the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival

Celebrate Mid Autumn Festival and learn Mandarin! Traditional Chinese praise and worship, Moon Goddess myths and legends, outdoor lanterns and mooncake!