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?
Transport · 4 phrases
Show your destination
I'd like to go here.
我要去这里。
Sounds roughly like
waw yow chyoo juh-lee
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.
Show the exact destination or its Chinese address as you say this.
Find the metro
Where is the metro station?
地铁站在哪里？
Sounds roughly like
dee-tyeh jahn dzye nah-lee
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.
Let your driver know
I'll get out here, thank you.
这里下车，谢谢。
Sounds roughly like
juh-lee shyah-chuh, shyeh-shyeh
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.
For a taxi or private car, only where the driver can stop safely and legally. Not for a bus or train.
Enjoy the view together
What a lovely view!
风景真好！
Sounds roughly like
fung-jing jun how
An English sound hint. Listen for the pronunciation.