#chinese beginner

[vanishingalleycat]

「我来人间一趟 本想万丈光芒，谁知世人模样 只为碎银几两」

I found this quote online and it really stuck with me. Roughly translates to:

“I visited this world, thinking it was made of gold and splendor. Who knew, the kind here would work harder for just a few grounds of silver.”

(feel free to correct me on this translation and or discuss this quote’s meaning!)

[echineselearning-blog1]

Mandarin Chinese Conversation: Arrange These Sentences into the Correct Order

Please use the following sentences to form a complete conversation with the correct order of sequence:

1. Zài zhèlǐ chī. 1. 在这里吃.

2. Wǒ yào yífèn hàn bǎo hé yì bēi kělè. 2. 我要一份汉堡和一杯可乐.

3. Níhǎo, qǐngwèn xūyào shénme? 3. 你好, 请问需要什么?

4. Zài zhé’r chī, hái shì dǎbāo dài zǒu? 4. 在这儿吃, 还是打包带走?

A. 3-2-1-4

B. 4-2-1-3

C. 4-3-2-1

D. 3-2-4-1

To read the answer, along with a helpful answer analysis, you can JOIN US HERE!

[echineselearning-blog1]

Understand 人情 (Rénqíng)? Prepare for an Easy Life in China

Something students learning Chinese should know is that learning just the language isn’t enough—one must also study Chinese culture. Every culture has its own morals and societal frameworks that the citizens find very important to uphold. If a Chinese student misses these, then living in China—even knowing Chinese—can present some problems. A place to start this cultural journey is by understanding 人情 (rénqíng), which can help students understand and be a part of life in China. So what is 人情 (rénqíng)?

In my personal experience living in China, I always noticed these little niceties my coworkers and friends would do in Chinese. Bringing fruit to the office and giving everyone a piece, or the way they would introduce a person. Yet, I never fully understood why they were doing it or how I was supposed to participate. This is where 人情 (rénqíng) comes in.

人情 (rénqíng) – human feelings; human relationship; favor; gift.

This concept plays an important part in Chinese society. It points to displays of affection and emotion, people’s sense, worldly affairs, friendly sentiments and sensitivity to other’s feelings. In a more practical usage, it points to the benefits and connections that come from person-to-person interaction.

So how do Chinese people display 人情 (rénqíng)? It is in simple gestures, such as giving a coworker a special local product from one’s hometown after a trip there, giving a red envelope to a classmate who just got married, or even complimenting your...

...for the FULL LESSON on 人情 (rénqíng)”, you can READ ALONG WITH US HERE!