ChinesePod - Beginner

In the ChinesePod HSK Test Prep series, we will focus on the HSK level 1 test. This series has a total of 12 lessons. Check out our Pinyin program first, then follow us through our HSK Level 1 series. Let's start this wonderful journey together!! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4244

Teenagers in the US stress over the SATs, while expats in China go crazy preparing for the HSK, China's official test of Chinese-language skill. It's no easy task, but today you can learn how to talk about studying for this most burdensome of tests in our newest Elementary lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1956

In today's lesson, we're showing you how to buy a train ticket at the station and some useful direction verbs, let's check it out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4239

What do you get when you combine metal blades, wooden sticks, and players speeding around a rink at 20-30 miles per hour? Besides a high incidence of concussions, lacerations and broken bones, you get hockey, of course! Learn how to talk about this popular wintertime sport in Chinese today. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1577

In this series, we tackle the most common question in every newbie's mind: "What's with the tone changes?" Along the way, you'll learn the tone change rules for 不, 一, two third tones, and three third tones. Practice and familiarize yourselves with the sounds, and you'll be a tone master in no time. Generally we do not see tone change rules applied in written texts, i.e. we do not see the change of tone mark reflected in written pinyin. Precisely because of this, tone change rules are confusing and burdensome to beginning learners. To help our users to master tone change rules more quickly, we have deliberately marked the changes so that they are more easily recognized and more discernible to learners. So join us in this newly designed tone change series, and let us know your thoughts! In this episode, we will introduce the tone change rule for consecutive three third tones! Let's get started! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4214

If you've never taken a taxi in China, you might find this question a bit absurd. "Which is better, China or the USA?" You're quite likely to be asked this in China, however. In this lesson, learn the diplomatic way to answer in Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1574

In this series, we tackle the most common question in every newbie's mind: "What's with the tone changes?" Along the way, you'll learn the tone change rules for 不, 一, two third tones, and three third tones. Practice and familiarize yourselves with the sounds, and you'll be a tone master in no time. Generally we do not see tone change rules applied in written texts, i.e. we do not see the change of tone mark reflected in written pinyin. Precisely because of this, tone change rules are confusing and burdensome to beginning learners. To help our users to master tone change rules more quickly, we have deliberately marked the changes so that they are more easily recognized and more discernible to learners. So join us in this newly designed tone change series, and let us know your thoughts! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4206

Don't eat the snow! No, not for the reason you're thinking... it's dirty! Join us in this lesson as a northerner and a southerner compare their Chinese winter experiences. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1568

In this series, we tackle the most common question in every newbie's mind: "What's with the tone changes?" Along the way, you'll learn the tone change rules for 不, 一, two third tones, and three third tones. Practice and familiarize yourselves with the sounds, and you'll be a tone master in no time. Generally we do not see tone change rules applied in written texts, i.e. we do not see the change of tone mark reflected in written pinyin. Precisely because of this, tone change rules are confusing and burdensome to beginning learners. To help our users to master tone change rules more quickly, we have deliberately marked the changes so that they are more easily recognized and more discernible to learners. So join us in this newly designed tone change series, and let us know your thoughts! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4203

If you've ever played in an orchestra, you may be curious about the Chinese names of some of those musical instruments. No, we don't mean guitar or drums; we're talking violin, tuba, and clarinet. The names are easier than you think. This one is for you, band nerds! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1564

In this series, we tackle the most common question in every newbie's mind: "What's with the tone changes?" Along the way, you'll learn the tone change rules for 不, 一, two third tones, and three third tones. Practice and familiarize yourselves with the sounds, and you'll be a tone master in no time. Generally we do not see tone change rules applied in written texts, i.e. we do not see the change of tone mark reflected in written pinyin. Precisely because of this, tone change rules are confusing and burdensome to beginning learners. To help our users to master tone change rules more quickly, we have deliberately marked the changes so that they are more easily recognized and more discernible to learners. So join us in this newly designed tone change series, and let us know your thoughts! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4196

Suits, sweaters... how could anyone possibly know which need to be dry cleaned, and which don't? No need to be shy; just ask! Learn to talk about clothing and dry cleaning options in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1561

In this series, we tackle the most common question in every newbie's mind: "What's with the tone changes?" Along the way, you'll learn the tone change rules for 不, 一, two third tones, and three third tones. Practice and familiarize yourselves with the sounds, and you'll be a tone master in no time. Today, let's start with 不(bù). Generally we do not see tone change rules applied in written texts, i.e. we do not see the change of tone mark reflected in written pinyin. Precisely because of this, tone change rules are confusing and burdensome to beginning learners. To help our users to master tone change rules more quickly, we have deliberately marked the changes so that they are more easily recognized and more discernible to learners. So join us in this newly designed tone change series, and let us know your thoughts! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4195

To make it through a northern Chinese winter, you're going to need to do more than your fair share of moisturizing. Go ahead, moisturize your hands and face. It'll give you something to talk about. But listen to this Chinese lesson first. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1557

Are you one of the Chinese learners who are afraid of complicated and scary Chinese characters? In this series, we are going to show you 66 traditional characters that you see every day produced in our Taipei Studios! Check it out and enjoying learning with Joy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4130

Electric scooters are a popular choice for transportation in China. If you live here, you may find yourself in the market for one. Let us help you tell all the reasons why this is such a fabulous idea in this Chinese lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1554

Are you one of the Chinese learners who are afraid of complicated and scary Chinese characters? In this series, we are gonna show you 66 traditional characters that you see every day produced in our Taipei Studios! Check it out and enjoying learning with Joy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4129

It's a dirty world out there, and it's not easy to stay clean... especially when you're a kid. But you have to try! Wash your hands, wash your face, and change your clothes if you have to. Learn all this language in Chinese and more, in today's lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1544

Are you one of the Chinese learners who are afraid of complicated and scary Chinese characters? In this series, we are gonna show you 66 traditional characters that you see every day produced in our Taipei Studios! Check it out and enjoying learning with Joy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4128

Have you ever been told to "dance like no one is watching?" It seems like many in China have taken this advice, and they've added some of their own: "also dance where everyone is watching." Learn the language for jumping in on some Chinese public dancing. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1537

Are you one of the Chinese learners who are afraid of complicated and scary Chinese characters? In this series, we are gonna show you 66 traditional characters that you see every day produced in our Taipei Studios! This episode is a recap of the first five lessons, be sure to review them! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4166

Buckling up is the law in many countries, and China is no exception. Sometimes this law is even enforced! In this lesson, learn the essential words and phrases for a run-in with the police over fastening one's safety belt. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1531

Are you one of the Chinese learners who are afraid of complicated and scary Chinese characters? In this series, we are gonna show you 66 traditional characters that you see every day produced in our Taipei Studios! Check it out and enjoying learning with Joy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4126

Halloween is not exactly widely celebrated in China, or at least not the way that your average western observer might recognize. But what if it were? In this lesson, learn the Chinese for "trick or treat" as well as some Chinese attitudes on this special holiday. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1532

Are you one of the Chinese learners who are afraid of complicated and scary Chinese characters? In this series produced in our Taipei Studios, we are gonna show you 66 traditional characters that you see every day! Check it out and enjoying learning with Joy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4125

You're a busy person, with staff helping you to manage your busy itinerary. You just may need to ask for some help reserving a cab in Mandarin Chinese. This lesson covers the essentials you need to get in that car and on the road. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1527

Are you one of the Chinese learners who are afraid of complicated and scary Chinese characters? In this series produced in our Taipei Studios, we are gonna show you 66 traditional characters that you see every day! Check it out and enjoying learning with Joy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4124

Chinese textbooks don't usually tell you this, but ChinesePod will let you in on a little secret: most of China does not speak that standard Beijing accent. In fact, some parts of China have accents and idiosyncrasies that can be downright baffling when you first encounter them. In this lesson, we learn about some key features of the Hunanese accent in Mandarin. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1524

Are you one of the Chinese learners who are afraid of complicated and scary Chinese characters? In this series, we are gonna show you 66 traditional characters that you see every day produced in our Taipei Studios! Check it out and enjoying learning with Joy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4123

With so many people living in the same city, it's bound to happen: sometimes you just can't get a cab. Experience this Chinese big city annoyance vicariously in today's lesson, picking up practical vocabulary along the way. Oh, and what's the solution if you simply can't get a cab? Listen to find out. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1521

Are you one of the Chinese learners who are afraid of complicated and scary Chinese characters? In this series, we are gonna show you 66 traditional characters that you see every day! Check it out and enjoying learning with Joy! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4121

We at ChinesePod are vaguely aware that some people like cats better than dogs. While we don't apologize for our various dog-themed lessons, we're happy to throw you cat lovers a (fish)bone. Listen to this lesson to learn how to deal with the irrational cat-haters of this world in Mandarin Chinese. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1518

In this newbie lesson, we're showing you three ways to respond to common questions like "What do you do for a living?" or "What's your job?". Let's check it out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4230

Cities in China are divided into districts, which are not only labeled on maps, but also frequently mentioned in casual conversation. Do you know what the major city districts of Shanghai or Beijing are? If you live in China, do you know which district you live in? In this lesson, we cover the essential Chinese words you need. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1514

In today's lesson, we are showing you a conversation between a grumpy bus driver and an impatient passenger. Let's check out the dialogue! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4221

Of all the great reasons to visit Beijing, one of the simple pleasures that tops most visitors' lists is the simple "stroll through the hutongs." These twisty old Beijing alleyways are traditional, they're charming, and they're a great way to get blissfully lost in Beijing. In today's lesson, learn the basic Chinese vocabulary you need to get started exploring Beijing's backstreets. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1511

Mobile phones can bring our significant others right into our meetings. In this lesson, you're gonna learn three sentences so that when you're about to join a meeting, or even in a meeting, you'll know what to say to your dear ones on the phone. Watch out! This lesson is designed for newbies who desire challenges! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4191

October 1st is "National Day" in the PRC, a holiday celebrating the founding of the nation. For the average Joe, this has a very important implication: vacation! In this lesson, learn how official holidays are announced, as well as some of their unfortunate drawbacks. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1509

A critical language skill for every toddler: How to gently let your parents know that it's actually NOT time for bed yet. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4189

You've got big plans for the morning, so don't forget to set your alarm clock. But do you know how to say this in Chinese, and to ask your travel buddy if he has performed this very necessary ritual? Learn the essential alarm clock Chinese in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1500

Some kids are never too young to ask dad about buying a new car. But what could push him into actually doing it? Find out in this lesson. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4177

It's fairly common in China for the newcomer in the office to send out a friendly introductory email to new co-workers. In this lesson we'll be taking a look at that simple email, and all its essential Chinese words and phrases. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1496

What common Chinese word do some foreigners learn before "Hello"? McDonald's (麦当劳) of course! Come learn some other important brand names to either impress your friends - or find a Subway sandwich. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4173

If you're planning to spend much time in a big city like Shanghai or Beijing, you're going to want to use the subway or bus system. A commuter pass, or "transportation card," as we say in Chinese, can save you a lot of time and hassle scrambling for change. This lesson will prepare you to buy the card and put money on it. Soon you'll be commuting as effortlessly as a local. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1493

What has a pig got to do with bamboo? Learn the meaning of the word Zhu and practice your tones! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4111

In this practical Chinese lesson a mother is shocked to discover that her child had a rather unproductive day. Learn the specific patterns for asking and answering what you've done and haven't done (and then you can go back to being lazy for a little while). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1486

Did you know a Chinese Idiom is always just 4 characters? Regardless of your level of Chinese study, it is always fun and interesting to learn new idioms. Do you know what it means when "The horses Arrive?" Find out! Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4102

Naturally you're going to accept every invitation to hang out with your Chinese friends and co-workers, but what do you say when you really just can't make it? In this lesson, find out how to politely decline an invitation, thereby increasing your chances of getting invited again (rather than getting blacklisted from their homes and shunned for life). Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1483

Join Grace on the farm as she counts all the animals! Learn your numbers from 1 to 10 and the names of farm animals and dragonflies. In this lesson, Grace uses measure words for the different animals. Chinese has many measure words. As we build our lessons, we will identify the various measure words and when they are used. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/4094

While "the great Chinese road trip" might not be the most popular activity for your typical trip to China, knowing how to say "fill 'er up" is definitely going to come in handy if you find yourself in private cars often. In this lesson, learn all the key Chinese words and phrases you need to get back on the road with a full tank. Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1479

What are you doing here in Shanghai? It's what everyone wants to know. So tell them that you're here in Shanghai working, and learning Chinese in your spare time. (Convincing them that you're not all about partying and living the high life is a topic for another lesson...) Episode link: https://www.chinesepod.com/1912