9.3 Which Chinese phrases should I learn?
The most useful Chinese phrases for traveling in China, including core survival phrases, practical phrases for buying and ordering, navigation and asking for help, with pinyin and usage notes to help foreign visitors communicate more smoothly.
No one expects you to speak fluent Chinese, but learning and using a few basic phrases can completely change your travel experience. They will make everyday tasks like shopping and asking for directions much easier, and they also show respect and friendliness. Locals will often really appreciate your effort and be even more willing to help.
1. Core survival phrases
These are the very first words you should learn — you will use them throughout your entire trip.
| Chinese | Pinyin | English meaning | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
| 你好 | Nǐ hǎo | Hello | The most basic greeting. Appropriate at almost any time and in any situation. |
| 谢谢 | Xièxiè | Thank you | Probably the single most useful and important word you’ll use in China. |
| 不客气 | Bú kèqì | You’re welcome | A polite response when someone says “谢谢 (Xièxiè)” to you. |
| 对不起 | Duìbùqǐ | Sorry / Excuse me | Use it to apologize or when you need to squeeze past people in a crowd. |
2. Practical transaction phrases
These phrases are extremely useful when ordering food, shopping, or dealing with money.
| Chinese | Pinyin | English meaning | Usage tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 这个 | Zhège | This one | An incredibly powerful word. You don’t need to know the name of what you want — just point at the dish or item and say “这个,” and people will know what you mean. |
| 多少钱? | Duōshǎo qián? | How much is it? | The standard way to ask for the price. Point at the item and ask this question. |
| 要 / 不要 | Yào / Bú yào | Want / Don’t want | Very direct and easy to use. For example, point at something on the menu and say “要这个 (Yào zhège)” — “I want this one.” |
| 买单 | Mǎidān | The bill / Check, please | Use this in a restaurant when you’re ready to pay. |
| 太贵了 | Tài guì le | That’s too expensive | Useful in markets or small shops where bargaining is acceptable. |
3. Navigation and asking for help
When you’re lost or need assistance, these phrases can get you out of trouble.
| Chinese | Pinyin | English meaning | Usage tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| …在哪里？ | …zài nǎlǐ? | Where is … ? | A basic pattern for asking directions. Say the place name first, then “在哪里?” For example, point at a metro station on a map and say “地铁站 (Dìtiě zhàn) 在哪里?” |
| 厕所 | Cèsuǒ | Toilet / Restroom | One of the most important words to know. |
| 听不懂 | Tīng bù dǒng | I don’t understand | Use this when someone speaks too fast or uses complicated Chinese. It politely signals that you didn’t understand. |
| 我需要帮助 | Wǒ xūyào bāngzhù | I need help | Use this in more serious or urgent situations when you really need assistance. |
4. Pro tips: how to use these phrases effectively
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Combine phrases with your “lifesaver” tools
Learning these phrases doesn’t mean you should stop using your translation app. The best approach is to use both together. Start with simple Chinese phrases, and if they don’t work, take out your translation app for more complex communication. -
Don’t be afraid of imperfect pronunciation
Speak with confidence. Even if your tones and pronunciation are not perfect, people will usually understand what you’re trying to say and genuinely appreciate your effort. -
Use body language too
Combine these phrases with a smile, pointing, and other gestures. Together, they make communication much easier and more effective.