When you talk to someone in Mandarin, asking their name and what they do is really important. Here are some simple questions and phrases that can help you understand and speak better, while also learning about the culture.
What is your name?
My name is...
What do you do? / What is your job?
I am a...
Be sure to practice how to say these questions out loud. Listen to the tones, because they can change the meaning:
You can practice with a friend. Take turns asking and answering these questions:
Try reading conversations that use these basic phrases. Write down your answers and practice making sentences with new words:
In places where people speak Mandarin, it's polite to use titles when talking to someone. For example, you can say “老师” (lǎoshī - teacher) or “先生” (xiānsheng - Mr.) before someone’s name to show respect.
The more you practice talking, writing, and listening, the more confident you'll become. Try using these phrases often so you can get better at basic conversations.
When you talk to someone in Mandarin, asking their name and what they do is really important. Here are some simple questions and phrases that can help you understand and speak better, while also learning about the culture.
What is your name?
My name is...
What do you do? / What is your job?
I am a...
Be sure to practice how to say these questions out loud. Listen to the tones, because they can change the meaning:
You can practice with a friend. Take turns asking and answering these questions:
Try reading conversations that use these basic phrases. Write down your answers and practice making sentences with new words:
In places where people speak Mandarin, it's polite to use titles when talking to someone. For example, you can say “老师” (lǎoshī - teacher) or “先生” (xiānsheng - Mr.) before someone’s name to show respect.
The more you practice talking, writing, and listening, the more confident you'll become. Try using these phrases often so you can get better at basic conversations.