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。
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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

"One man's trash is another man's treasure!" For many young people in China, the second-hand market is now part of everyday life—helping them save money, enjoy "new-to-them" items more often, and even protect the environment. In this episode, join Niuniu and Steve as they explore China's second-hand market and pick up practical Chinese expressions along the way. (04:05) Useful vocabulary for buying and selling second-hand items. (12:02) Selling items in a "blind-box style" on the second-hand market.

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

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

Do you prefer to rent things or own them? In China, more and more young people are turning to convenience, flexibility of rental economy! In our latest episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve talk about all the essential phrases about renting you'll actually use in real life. (01:48) Vocabulary about renting. (06:28) Rent or buy - what's your choice?

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

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

Ever wondered how to talk about body parts in Chinese? In today's "Takeaway Chinese," let's learn the words you hear every day and pick up some fun idioms along the way. Ready for a quick language workout? Let's go! On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (04:45) Essential body-parts vocabulary. (17:08) Do English and Chinese share similar expressions?

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

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

This week on "Takeaway Chinese," we're serving up a fresh episode all about fruits! Learn the must-know vocabulary, fun expressions, and cultural tidbits that make talking about fruits in Chinese so much sweeter. Tune in and take your Chinese to the next level! On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (03:28) Fruit vocabulary in Chinese. (12:23) Fun tongue twister about grapes.

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

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

Greeting someone in Chinese is much more than saying 你好 (nǐ hǎo). From a simple "早 (zǎo)!" in the morning to the elegant "幸会 (xìng huì)" when meeting someone new, Chinese offers a rich set of expressions that can instantly change the tone of a conversation. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (04:28) Different ways to greet in Chinese. (17:17) Different ways to address people.

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

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

In this episode, we're getting sporty! We'll explore China's National Games and pick up a few handy Chinese sports expressions along the way. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (03:10) Learn useful sports vocabulary. (07:04) Get to know China's National Games.

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

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

How do you get your news — from newspapers, TV, or probably short videos on social media? In today's episode, we'll explore how media and communication have evolved over time — and learn some useful Chinese words along the way! Later in the show, Niuniu and Steve will share their own experiences and reflections from working in the media industry. (04:15) Learn key media-related Chinese expressions. (15:09) Niuniu and Steve's stories from behind the scenes in the media world.

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

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

Climb high, admire the beauty of chrysanthemums, and celebrate longevity — it's 重阳节 (Chóngyáng Jié), the Double Ninth Festival! In this week's episode of Takeaway Chinese, let's explore this ancient festival together and learn useful vocabulary related to senior people. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (03:52) Learn words related to senior people. (06:14) Explore the Double Ninth Festival.

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

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

Ever wondered how traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has stayed relevant for thousands of years? From balancing yin and yang to the idea of "treating illness before it happens," this week's Takeaway Chinese dives into the wisdom behind TCM — plus, you'll pick up some useful Chinese words along the way! On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (07:04) Words related to TCM. (27:29) The story of Tu Youyou, the first female Chinese citizen to receive a Nobel Prize.

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

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

What words come to mind when you think of women? From "considerate" and "caring" to "strong" and "independent" — the way we describe women says a lot about how times have changed! Tune in to explore how Chinese language reflects women's evolving roles. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (06:47) Learn a catchy slogan in Chinese — "Women hold up half the sky." (10:38) Discover how the words used to describe women reveal society's changing expectations.

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

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

In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we'll explore the traditions that make the Mid-Autumn Festival so special—from the stories and flavors of mooncakes to the warmth of family reunions under the full moon. You'll also pick up festive phrases and expressions to brighten your journey of Chinese learning. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (09:45) Traditional vs. modern mooncakes (20:38) Festival activities and celebrations