Takeaway Chinese

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "manage one's health" in Chinese.

Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 祛魅 （qū mèi） – stripping away the "filter" and seeing the truth underneath. Have you ever finally gotten something you deeply wanted – only to realize it felt… more ordinary than you imagined? In China, more and more young people are using the word 祛魅 to describe that moment when the filter comes off and reality comes into focus. Let's talk about why people are "demystifying" the modern dream, and what happens when we stop chasing the fantasy and start seeing things as they really are. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

What's your favorite hobby – music, travel, or something else? In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, you'll discover some of the trendiest hobbies among young people in China right now! Join us to learn useful expressions, fun cultural insights, and everyday vocabulary! On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (02:22) Describe your hobbies in Chinese. (12:36) What are some trending hobbies in China?

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

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

In Chinese, intelligence isn't just about IQ. Someone can be 聪明 (smart), 机灵 (clever), 精明 (shrewd), or even 大智若愚 (great wisdom under the guise of folly) — and each word reveals a different way Chinese speakers think about wisdom, personality, and social behavior. In our new episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're exploring how Chinese speakers describe smart, clever, silly, goofy, and everything in between. (02:08) Different ways to say "smart" in Chinese (11:24) Calling your partner "dumb" in Chinese can actually sound romantic?

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

Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 活人感 (huó rén gǎn) – the feeling of a living human or the sense of a real person. Have you ever looked at a flawless post – and felt… nothing? 活人感 is the opposite of that feeling. It's the sense that there's a real, living person behind the screen – the kind of raw, unfiltered presence that makes you pause and think: this feels real. In a world of curated content and AI-generated interactions, why does this feeling matter so much – and why are people starting to seek it out? Let's explore what "real" really means – and why it's becoming more valuable than ever. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

Chinese is evolving fast – and so is the slang! From viral catchphrases to internet buzzwords, we're breaking down the trendiest expressions people are using right now. Sound more natural, more local, and way more in the know. Tune in to Takeaway Chinese and upgrade your Chinese today! (07:40) 开团秒跟 - Someone takes the lead, others immediately copy or join. (15:50) 活人感 - A sense of being a real, living person.

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

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

In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve explore what safety means in China – from ancient philosophies about an ideal society to real-life travel experiences today. Join us as we take a closer look at how safe it feels in China, especially during nighttime. (06:54) What did a "safe society" look like in ancient China? (12:57) How safe is it to be out at night in China today?

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

Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 学术底刊 (xué shù dǐ kān) – bottom-tier academic journals. Now, you won't find these journals in any library. It's a viral trend that turns academic writing into something unexpectedly funny. Think of it as the perfect blend of serious academic language mixed with completely nonsensical topics – like asking, "Should Optimus Prime buy car insurance... or personal accident insurance?" It's hilarious, but behind the humor lies a deeper story about how a new generation of researchers is coping with pressure and failure. Let's dive in for more. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

Is learning a language still worth it when AI can translate in real-time? In this UN Chinese Language Day special of Takeaway Chinese, we asked Chinese language learners across the globe: Do you use AI to learn Chinese? Will you keep learning Chinese as AI advances? What we found might surprise you! Tune in now. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve.  (05:20) How are Chinese language learners across the globe using AI right now to help them learn the language?  (09:30) What do Chinese language learners hope AI will be able to do for them in the future?

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

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

Ever tried arguing in Chinese… and suddenly didn't know how to sound right? In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve walk you through various real-life arguing scenarios — from workplace disagreements to couple banter, to those moments when you really need to stand your ground… tune in now, and pick up useful expressions. (02:27) How do you handle arguments in different real-life situations in Chinese? (08:25) "随便," often translated as "whatever," is one of the most versatile and nuanced words in Chinese.

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

Welcome to our new segment "The China Code", where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 开团秒跟 (kāi tuán miǎo gēn). It started in gaming, but now it's everywhere – from group chats to spontaneous real-life moments with total strangers. So how did a gaming term turn into a real-life vibe – and why do people love it so much? Let's take a closer look. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

Ever feel like your emotions are speaking louder than your words? In our latest episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're diving into something we all experience, but don't always know how to express: negative emotions. From stress and frustration to disappointment and burnout, how do you talk about these feelings in Chinese? And more importantly, how do you respond to them? On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (01:01) How to talk about negative feelings in Chinese? (11:37) How do you respond to a panic attack?

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

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

Ever wondered how many ways Chinese has to say "room"? From 室, 厅, 间, 房, 屋… each word opens a different door into how space is understood in Chinese. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve discuss these subtle differences. Tune in and pick up some handy expressions! (01:10) There're so many words in Chinese that can describe a room: 室, 厅, 间, 房, 屋… (08:55) In traditional Chinese society (especially in ancient times), the term for the legal wife (distinguished from concubines) was linked to the house: 正室

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

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

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!

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

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

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.

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

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

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?

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

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

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!

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

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

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.

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

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

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