Language Basics & Useful Phrases in Beining, Liaoning, China

1. Basic Greetings

Learn common greetings like 'Ni hao' (hello) and 'Zaijian' (goodbye), essential for any traveler.

Know how to order food and ask for preferences like 'Wo yao chi shi shenme' (I want to eat what is this?).

Culinary Curiosity: Enables you to explore local delicacies.
Avoidance of Mistakes: Prevents you from accidentally ordering something you dislike.
Cultural Understanding: Gives insight into local eating habits and customs.

Express gratitude with 'Xie xie' (thank you) or 'Duo xie xie' (very thank you).

Decline offers politely using phrases like 'Bu xie' (I don't want) or 'Bushi yao' (I don't need).

Respectful Declination: Avoids offending the offerer.
Clear Communication: Ensures your intentions are understood clearly.
Prevention of Misunderstandings: Prevents misunderstandings that could strain relationships.

Ask for help with 'Wo hen bu zhidao' (I don't know) or 'Wo xiang zhidao' (I want to know).

Navigational Aid: Helps you find your way when lost.
Information Gathering: Allows you to get important information about attractions and services.
Empowerment: Gives you the ability to solve problems independently.

Understand local customs and etiquette like removing shoes before entering a home.

Respect for Culture: Shows sensitivity towards the local culture.
Avoidance of Faux Pas: Prevents embarrassing cultural blunders.
Friendliness Enhancement: Enables you to make friends and connections more easily.

Bargain effectively using 'Ni shi zui hao de dai san' (This is too expensive).

Cost Reduction: Allows you to buy items at a lower price.
Negotiation Skills: Improves your ability to negotiate prices.
Satisfaction Guarantee: Enables you to get a fair deal and ensure the item is as described.

Ask for directions using 'Nali wodo' (Where is it located?) or 'Nali zheli' (How do I get there?).

Navigation Assistance: Helps you find your way to attractions, accommodations, and other destinations.
Time-saving: Prevents wasted time due to wrong turns or getting lost.
Adventure Mitigation: Reduces the likelihood of getting lost in unfamiliar areas.

Ask for transportation options using 'Nali zhaoche dao' (How do I take a taxi?) or 'Nali qu kan' (How do I take the bus?).

Mobility Enhancement: Allows you to travel easily within Beining.
Time Management: Helps you choose the fastest and most convenient transportation methods.
Safety Assurance: Ensures that you are traveling in a safe and reliable manner.

Find and book accommodation with 'Wo xiang zhaoshu' (I want to check in) or 'Wo xiang kaiwu' (I want to leave).

Roof Overhead Assurance: Ensures you have a place to stay during your visit.
Comfort and Convenience: Allows you to choose accommodations that suit your preferences.
Peace of Mind: Gives you the confidence to explore Beining knowing you have a place to return to.

Ask for medical help using 'Wo hen bu keqi' (I am not feeling well) or 'Wo yao yao li' (I need a doctor).

Health Protection: Enables you to seek medical assistance if needed.
Emergency Response: Allows you to get immediate help in case of an emergency.
Peace of Mind: Gives you the assurance that you can take care of yourself if needed.

Ask for change or check prices using 'Wo yao kuai' (I want change) or 'Duo qian ma?' (How much is it?).

Economical Efficiency: Allows you to pay the correct amount for purchases.
Currency Management: Helps you manage your money effectively during your trip.
Bargaining Assistance: Gives you the power to negotiate prices more effectively.

Ask for the time using 'Shenme shi ji' (What time is it?) or ask for a specific time using 'Duo shi ji sheng' (What time is it x o'clock?).

Time-saving: Helps you manage your time effectively during the day.
Reliability: Enables you to arrive at appointments on time.
Adventure Mitigation: Reduces the likelihood of being late for planned activities.

Book a taxi or rideshare using 'Wo xiang zhaoche' (I want to take a taxi) or 'Wo xiang che' (I want a car).

Mobility Enhancement: Allows you to travel easily within Beining.
Time Management: Helps you choose the fastest and most convenient transportation methods.
Safety Assurance: Ensures that you are traveling in a safe and reliable manner.

Get help during an emergency using 'Wo hen bu keqi' (I am not feeling well) or 'Wo yao yao li' (I need a doctor).

Health Protection: Enables you to seek medical assistance if needed.
Emergency Response: Allows you to get immediate help in case of an emergency.
Peace of Mind: Gives you the assurance that you can take care of yourself if needed.