Start a conversation
Hello.
你好。
Sounds roughly like
nee how
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.
A few words for your day.
Speak Little
Ordering lunch, finding your way, or sharing a little appreciation. Find a phrase, hear it, and give it a try. You can always show it, too.
Find a phrase for your situation ↓Start small
Five phrases to keep close.
Find in Speak Little
A little thank-you
Thank you.
谢谢。
Sounds roughly like
shyeh-shyeh
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.
Point to something you'd like
This one, please. Thank you.
这个，谢谢。
Sounds roughly like
juh-guh, shyeh-shyeh
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.
Point to an item on the menu or something on display.
Find in Speak LittleLet them know you didn't understand
I don't understand what you're saying.
我听不懂。
Sounds roughly like
waw ting boo dong
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.
Ask for a little help
Please help me.
请帮帮我。
Sounds roughly like
ching bahng-bahng waw
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.
A general request for help. See Travel tips for emergency contacts.
Find in Speak LittleWhat are you up to?
Help · 4 phrases
Let them know you didn't understand
I don't understand what you're saying.
我听不懂。
Sounds roughly like
waw ting boo dong
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.
Ask them to slow down
A little more slowly, please.
请慢一点。
Sounds roughly like
ching mahn ee-dyen
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.
Ask for a little help
Please help me.
请帮帮我。
Sounds roughly like
ching bahng-bahng waw
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.
A general request for help. See Travel tips for emergency contacts.
Find a restroom
Where is the restroom?
洗手间在哪里？
Sounds roughly like
shee-show-jyen dzye nah-lee
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.