Takeaway Chinese

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Takeaway Chinese A 25-minute daily Chinese language teaching show which covers the most frequently used Chinese words and expressions, dialogues, language tips, and stories behind the idioms. 《随行汉语》:每天25分钟的中文教学栏目,囊括最常用实用的汉语表达,探讨中国语言与社会文化,以及趣味故事。

China Plus


    • Mar 23, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 19m AVG DURATION
    • 809 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Takeaway Chinese podcast is an incredible resource for anyone learning Mandarin Chinese. As a long-time listener, both on-air and online, I can confidently say that the hosts make learning Chinese enjoyable and accessible for learners of all skill levels. This informative and educational podcast has become a staple in my language studies, and I highly recommend it to others looking to improve their Mandarin Chinese.

    One of the best aspects of The Takeaway Chinese podcast is its ability to help listeners practice listening skills and familiarize themselves with everyday vocabulary, tones, and idioms. The hosts create a conversational tone that mimics real-life situations, providing valuable context for language learning. Additionally, the podcast offers insights into Chinese culture, society, and history, allowing listeners to gain a deeper understanding of the language's context and meaning.

    As someone with some background in Chinese but in need of improvement, this podcast has been incredibly useful for me. It provides easily digestible content that helps me keep up with my rusty Chinese while also offering opportunities to expand my knowledge and proficiency. The native speaker's conversational approach makes it easy to pick up new vocabulary and phrases while reinforcing previously learned material.

    The only minor downside to The Takeaway Chinese podcast is occasionally the response time from host Liu Ming when Jessica asks a question or makes a statement. While this could be improved by allowing more time for thoughtful responses, it does not significantly impact the overall quality of the show. The engaging conversations and well-chosen topics make up for any small delays or rushed moments.

    In conclusion, I cannot speak highly enough about The Takeaway Chinese podcast. Whether you are a beginner or have more experience with Mandarin Chinese, this podcast offers an entertaining and effective way to learn the language. With its informative content on culture, society, and language nuances, it goes beyond traditional teaching methods and creates an engaging learning experience. I commend the hosts for their passion and dedication to creating such an exceptional show, and I wish the Takeaway Chinese group all the best in their future endeavors.



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    Latest episodes from Takeaway Chinese

    Blossoms in the air: Learn Chinese through flower appreciation 与花相约,赴一场春天的约会

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 27:27


    Spring is in the air, and so are the blossoms! In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we invite you to slow down and step into the timeless tradition of flower appreciation. Admiring flowers isn't just about beauty; it's a way of feeling the season and connecting with nature! On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (05:21) Learn useful Chinese expressions about flowers. (15:06) Flowers are made into delicious food too!

    Special: How to say "corporate cattle 牛马" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2026 1:16


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "corporate cattle" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "abnormal 异常" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 1:07


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "abnormal" in Chinese.

    Protecting your consumer rights 消费者如何维权?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 27:56


    In a world where we're constantly buying and consuming, how can you protect your rights as a consumer? And if something goes wrong, how do you file a complaint in China? Join Niuniu and Steve as they explore what rights consumers have in China while teaching useful Chinese expressions and practical tips to help you navigate everyday consumption. (07:01) What rights do consumers have? Learn key terms and phrases in Chinese. (13:51) The March 15 Gala—a major televised event that exposes corporate malpractice and defends consumer rights.

    Special: How to say "rhythm 节奏" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2026 1:08


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "rhythm" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "retire 退役" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 1:12


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "retire" in Chinese.

    Do you make plans… or just go with the flow? 聊聊计划和目标

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 31:27


    Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Some people love this question because it gives them a chance to talk about their goals and ambitions. Others absolutely hate it. After all, not everyone likes planning that far ahead — and life doesn't always go according to plan. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve talk about useful and practical Chinese when talking about goals, schedules, and future plans. Tune in now! (04:38) Different ways to say "plan" in Chinese. (15:33) Do you make plans every day?

    Special: How to say "torment 煎熬" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026 1:06


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "torment" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "qualified 合格" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2026 1:13


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "qualified" in Chinese.

    How Chinese people talk about luck 你是一个幸运的人吗?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2026 31:24


    Do you believe in luck? In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve talk about how Chinese people talk about luck – from good luck in love and life's unexpected twists. Tune in and pick up handy phrases to use in everyday conversations! (09:05) A fish that symbolizes good luck in Chinese culture. (17:25) Feeling lucky in love? Learn how to say it in Chinese!

    Special: How to say "ordinary 平凡" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 1:08


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "ordinary" in Chinese.

    ​Special: How to say "a good deal 划算" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 1:07


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "a good deal" in Chinese.

    Year of the Horse special: Classic horse stories you should know! “马”的故事

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 27:46


    Horses have inspired some of the most fascinating idioms and historical tales. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we explore three legendary horse stories that continue to shape the way people talk about wisdom, strategy, and recognizing true potential. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (03:20) The story of Bo Le discerning a noble steed. (14:30) The story searching for a fine horse according to a picture - and why it failed. (19:23) Tian Ji's horse racing: How to lose one race and win the game.

    Special: How to say "make do 凑合" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 1:10


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "make do" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "key 关键" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2026 1:14


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "key" in Chinese.

    Happy Year of the Horse! 辞旧岁,迎新春

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2026 31:04


    Celebrate the most meaningful night of the year in Chinese culture with Takeaway Chinese! In this episode, we explore key Chinese New Year customs and expressions — from reunion dinners and red envelopes to visiting relatives and shopping for festive goods... On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (06:15) The most important dinner of the year (15:10) Must-know Chinese New Year customs

    Special: How to say "static electricity 静电" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2026 1:19


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "static electricity" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "update 更新" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2026 1:07


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "update" in Chinese.

    Horse-related expressions you should know! 马年说马

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2026 27:20


    The Year of the Horse is almost here! In this episode, we provide you with useful horse-related cultural insights and expressions in Chinese. Tune in now and learn how "horse" can symbolize talent, success, and achievement. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (08:51) How can "horse" be used metaphorically to describe someone with great talent? (11:45) 汗马功劳: Great contributions and hard-earned achievements.

    Special: How to say "good review 好评" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2026 1:11


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "good review" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "greasy 油腻" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 1:07


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "greasy" in Chinese.

    Mandarin helps unlock conversations, friendships, and opportunity 英国校长谈中文学习

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2026 27:46


    On "Takeaway Chinese," Dr. Chris Evans, headmaster of Reading School in the UK, explains why UK students are embracing Mandarin—and how it unlocks conversations, friendships, and future opportunities. Tune in for more insights. (06:22) How does Dr. Chris Evans see learning Chinese? (10:16) How are students in the UK learning Chinese?

    Special: How to say "river basin 流域" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2026 1:12


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "river basin" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "production 产量" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 1:09


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "production" in Chinese.

    Listener special: Our Chinese learning journeys & China stories 听众特辑:外国人眼里的中国

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 25:22


    What does China look like through the eyes of foreign friends? What fun stories do they have with their Chinese friends? Find out in this listener special of "Takeaway Chinese." On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (01:22) The Chinese word that puzzled foreign learners the most at the start. (12:57) Stories with Chinese friends.

    Special: How to say "keep fresh 保鲜" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2026 1:17


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "keep fresh" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "crowdfunding 众筹" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2026 1:18


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "crowdfunding" in Chinese.

    From the first word, to real life in China 我们的中文故事

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2026 32:56


    Over the past few weeks, we asked you all kinds of questions about China and Chinese learning — and now it's time to hear your stories! Tune in to our brand-new episode as Niuniu and Steve dive into your thoughts and experiences. (05:32) Why did you start learning Chinese? (26:38) What was the very first Chinese word you learned?

    Special: How to say "quit the fandom 退坑" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2026 1:16


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "quit the fandom" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "stand idle 闲置" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 1:18


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "stand idle" in Chinese.

    Talking about time in Chinese: Everyday expressions 用中文聊聊时间

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 28:25


    In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we zoom in on time-related Chinese expressions you'll actually hear in real life. From common phrases and sentence patterns… if you want to talk about time more confidently in Chinese — this episode is right on time. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (03:32) Talking about time: key expressions in Chinese (11:29) How was time measured in ancient China?

    Special: How to say "old items 旧物" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 1:12


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "old items" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "second-hand 二手" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 1:11


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "second-hand" in Chinese.

    New Year, new words: The mindsets and buzzwords kicking off 2026 新年快乐,“爱你老几”!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 28:38


    In this episode of "Takeaway Chinese," we're kicking off the New Year by unpacking the new trends and new words everyone's using right now. From fresh expressions to buzzwords shaping daily conversations, we'll explore how language captures hopes, changes, and the mood of the year ahead. Whether you're learning Chinese or just curious about what people really say in real life, this episode gives you practical phrases and cultural context. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (05:54) "Love yourself" is the new mindset. (10:28) More people are choosing culture-driven travel experiences.

    Special: How to say "acupuncture 针灸" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2026 1:18


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "acupuncture" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "travel photography 旅拍" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 1:12


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "travel photography" in Chinese.

    China's 2025 buzzwords explained (part 2) 邪修、来财……一起学习2025年中文热词

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2025 27:52


    In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we continue to break down the hottest Chinese internet slang you really need to know—what they mean, where they come from, and how people actually use them in daily life! On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (02:20) 邪修 (xié xiū): an unorthodox way of doing something that actually works. (08:53) A基础 (jī chǔ), B就不基础 (jiù bù jī chǔ): A is basic, simple, ordinary, or standard — but B definitely isn't.

    Special: How to say "be infused with 融入" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2025 1:13


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "be infused with" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "honest 诚实" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 1:08


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say " honest" in Chinese.

    China's 2025 buzzwords explained 预制菜、具身智能……2025年中文热词都有哪些?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2025 26:53


    Do you agree that the language of young people is a language of its own? Online buzzwords are more than just trends—they capture how a generation thinks, jokes, and reacts to the world. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we dive into the hottest Chinese buzzwords of 2025 and what they reveal about today's society. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (06:25) From pre-made dishes to even a pre-made life… one word says it all. (10:06) As humanoid robots and service robots become part of everyday life, a new word rises with them.

    Special: How to say “craftsman 匠人" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2025 1:16


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "craftsman" in Chinese.

    Special: How to say "agriculture 农业" in Chinese?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2025 1:13


    In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "agriculture" in Chinese.

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