Chinese

Question: 我 --- wǒ --- wɔ˨˩˦

Answer: I, me | Example:我是学生。 | I am a student.

Hint: Think of 'wo' as 'whoa, it's me!'

Question: 的 --- de --- də

Answer: of; possessive particle | Example:这是我的书。 | This is my book.

Hint: Think of 'de' as the glue that shows possession, like 'of' or ' 's' in English.

Question: 你 --- nǐ --- ni˨˩˦

Answer: you | Example:你好吗？ | How are you?

Hint: Think of 'knee' - you need 'you' to bend it!

Question: 了 --- le --- lɤ

Answer: indicates a completed action or a change of state | Example:我吃了晚饭。 | I have eaten dinner.

Hint: Think of 'le' as the 'level up' in a game - it means something has changed or been completed.

Question: 是 --- shì --- ʂɻ̩˥˩

Answer: to be | Example:他是学生。 | He is a student.

Hint: Think of 'shì' as 'is' in English.

Question: 不 --- bù --- pu˥˩

Answer: no; not | Example:我不想去。 | I don't want to go.

Hint: Imagine a stubborn child saying 'boo' to everything.

Question: 在 --- zài --- tsaɪ

Answer: at, in, on | Example:我在家。 | I am at home.

Hint: Think of 'zài' as 'site' where something is located.

Question: 他 --- tā --- tʰā

Answer: he; him | Example:他是我的朋友。 | He is my friend.

Hint: Think of 'tā' as 'he' with a top hat!

Question: 我们 --- wǒmen --- wɔ˨˩mən

Answer: we; us | Example:我们一起去看电影吧。 | Let's go watch a movie together.

Hint: Think of 'wo' as 'we' and 'men' as 'us men' together.

Question: 好 --- hǎo --- xɑ̀ʊ

Answer: Good; well | Example:你今天好吗？ | Are you well today?

Hint: Think of 'how' as in 'How are you?' - usually answered with 'Good!'

Question: 这 --- zhè --- ʈʂɤ̂

Answer: this | Example:这是一本书。 | This is a book.

Hint: Think of 'zhè' as 'this' very moment.

Question: 有 --- yǒu --- joʊ˨˩˦

Answer: to have; there is/are | Example:我有一本书。 | I have a book.

Hint: Think of 'yo!' as in 'Yo, I have something!'

Question: 要 --- yào --- jàu

Answer: to want; to need; important | Example:我要一杯咖啡。 | I want a cup of coffee.

Hint: Think of 'yào' as 'yo, I want that!'

Question: 什么 --- shénme --- ʂə́n.mə

Answer: what | Example:你在做什么？ | What are you doing?

Hint: Think of it as 'shen' (sounds like 'shen' in 'shenanigans') and 'me' (like 'me' in English). 'What shenanigans are happening to me?'

Question: 一 --- yī --- i˥

Answer: one | Example:我有一个苹果。 | I have one apple.

Hint: One line, one number.

Question: 就 --- jiù --- tɕjoʊ˥˩

Answer: then; precisely; exactly; only; just; as soon as | Example:我一到家就给你打电话。| I will call you as soon as I get home.

Hint: Just 'jiù' it!

Question: 吧 --- ba --- bɑ

Answer: a particle used at the end of a sentence to indicate suggestion, request, or uncertainty | Example:我们去吃饭吧。 | Let's go eat, okay?

Hint: Think of 'ba' as a way to soften your sentence, like adding 'right?' or 'okay?' at the end.

Question: 她 --- tā --- tɑ́

Answer: she; her | Example:她是我的朋友。 | She is my friend.

Hint: Think of 'tā' as 'ta-da!' for a female magician.

Question: 想 --- xiǎng --- ɕjɑŋ˨˩˦

Answer: to think; to miss; to want | Example:我想你。 | I miss you.

Hint: Thinking of someone you miss makes you want to see them.

Question: 知道 --- zhī dào --- ʈʂɻ̩⁵⁵ tɑʊ̯⁵¹

Answer: to know | Example:我知道这个答案。 | I know the answer.

Hint: You 'know' the 'Dao' (way) of things.

Question: 说 --- shuō --- ʂu̯o

Answer: to speak; to say | Example:他说他喜欢看书。 | He said he likes to read books.

Hint: When you 'say' something, you 'show' your thoughts.

Question: 很 --- hěn --- xən˧˥

Answer: very | Example:我很高兴。 | I am very happy.

Hint: Think of 'hen' (a chicken) being 'very' loud in the morning!

Question: 那 --- nà --- nɑ˥˩

Answer: that | Example:那是我的书。 | That is my book.

Hint: Think of pointing to something far and saying 'nah, that one!'

Question: 去 --- qù --- tɕʰy˥˩

Answer: to go | Example:我想去商店。 | I want to go to the store.

Hint: Think of 'queue' as in lining up to go somewhere.

Question: 人 --- rén --- ʈʂə̌n

Answer: person | Example:这个人很友好。 | This person is very friendly.

Hint: Think of 'Ren' from 'Ren and Stimpy' - he's a person!

Question: 都 --- dōu --- toʊ

Answer: all; both | Example:我们都喜欢这个地方。 | We all like this place.

Hint: Think of 'do' as in 'do all things'.

Question: 会 --- huì --- xweɪ˥˩

Answer: can, to be able to | Example:我会说中文。 | I can speak Chinese.

Hint: Think of 'hui' as 'hey, I can do it!'

Question: 来 --- lái --- laɪ˧˥

Answer: to come | Example:他来了。 | He has come.

Hint: Think of 'come' as 'lái-ing' over.

Question: 啊 --- a --- ɑ

Answer: a particle used to express surprise, doubt, or to soften a statement | Example:你来了啊！ | Oh, you came!

Hint: Think of 'ah!' when you're surprised or need to soften what you say.

Question: 他们 --- tāmen --- tʰa˥˥ mən

Answer: They/Them | Example:他们正在公园里玩耍。 | They are playing in the park.

Hint: They are the men (tāmen)

Question: 和 --- hé --- xɤ̌

Answer: and; with; harmony; peace | Example:我和你一起去。 | I will go with you.

Hint: Think of 'harmony' when you see 'hé'.

Question: 也 --- yě --- jɛ˨˩˦

Answer: also; too | Example:我也是学生。 | I am also a student.

Hint: Think of 'yeah' as in 'yeah, me too!'

Question: 一个 --- yī gè --- i˥ kɤ˥˩

Answer: one; a; an | Example:我有一个苹果。 | I have an apple.

Hint: Think of 'one' as the first step or the starting point.

Question: 个 --- gè --- ɡə˥˩

Answer: a general measure word used for objects and people | Example:我有一个苹果。 | I have an apple.

Hint: Think of 'gè' as a 'go-to' measure word for almost anything!

Question: 没有 --- méi yǒu --- mei˧˥ jou˨˩˧

Answer: to not have; there is not | Example:我没有时间。 | I don't have time.

Hint: Think of 'may yo' as in 'may yo have it? No, I don't have it.'

Question: 做 --- zuò --- tswɔ˥˩

Answer: to do; to make | Example:我喜欢做饭。 | I like to cook.

Hint: Think of 'doing' something with 'zest'!

Question: 把 --- bǎ --- pa˨˩˦

Answer: to hold; handle; measure word for objects with handles | Example:请把门关上。| Please close the door.

Hint: Think of 'grabbing' a 'handle' to 'hold' it.

Question: 对 --- duì --- tweɪ˥˩

Answer: correct; right | Example:你的答案是对的。 | Your answer is correct.

Hint: Think of 'duì' as 'do it right!'

Question: 给 --- gěi --- keɪ˧˩˧

Answer: to give | Example:请把书给我。 | Please give me the book.

Hint: Think of 'give' as 'gěi've.

Question: 到 --- dào --- tɑʊ˥˩

Answer: to arrive; to reach | Example:他已经到家了。 | He has already arrived home.

Hint: Think of 'D' for 'Destination'.

Question: 让 --- ràng --- ʐâŋ

Answer: to let; to allow; to make | Example:请你让一下。 | Please let me through.

Hint: Think of 'rang' as in 'range' - giving someone the range to do something.

Question: 得 --- dé --- tə˧˥

Answer: to obtain; to get | Example:我得到了他的信息。 | I got his message.

Hint: Think of 'dé' as 'd' for 'done'—you got it!

Question: 能 --- néng --- nə̌ŋ

Answer: can, be able to | Example:我能说中文。 | I can speak Chinese.

Hint: Think of 'neng' as 'ninja' - ninjas can do anything!

Question: 没 --- méi --- mei²¹⁴⁻²¹⁽⁴⁾

Answer: not have; there is not | Example:我没时间。 | I don't have time.

Hint: Think of 'may' as in 'may not have'.

Question: 上 --- shàng --- ʂɑ̂ŋ

Answer: to go up, to ascend, to get on | Example:他上了楼。 | He went upstairs.

Hint: Think of 'shàng' as 'shang-high' to remember it means to go up.

Question: 还 --- hái --- xǎi

Answer: to return; still; yet | Example:我还没有完成作业。 | I haven't finished my homework yet.

Hint: Think of 'hái' as 'hi, I'm still here!'

Question: 可以 --- kě yǐ --- kʰɤ²¹⁴ i²¹⁴

Answer: can, may, able to | Example:你可以告诉我怎么去那里吗？ | Can you tell me how to get there?

Hint: Imagine you have the key (kě) to open any door (yǐ) – you can do it!

Question: 着 --- zhe --- ʈʂɤ

Answer: indicates an ongoing action or state | Example:他正在看书。 | He is reading a book.

Hint: Think of 'zhe' as 'juh' in 'just happening'.

Question: 看 --- kàn --- kʰan˥˩

Answer: to look, to see, to watch | Example:我喜欢看电影。 | I like to watch movies.

Hint: Think of 'kan't see without looking!

Question: 你们 --- nǐmen --- ni˨˩˦ mən˧˥

Answer: You (plural) | Example:你们今天要去哪里？ | Where are you all going today?

Hint: Think of 'nǐ' as 'you' and 'men' as 'more than one person'.

Question: 过 --- guò --- ɡuò

Answer: to pass; to cross; to go over | Example:我们需要过桥才能到达那边。 | We need to cross the bridge to get over there.

Hint: Think of 'go over' as 'guò over'.

Question: 但 --- dàn --- tan⁵¹

Answer: but | Example:我想去看电影，但我没有时间。 | I want to go to the movies, but I don't have time.

Hint: Think of 'but' as a 'dàn'ce move that changes the direction of the conversation.

Question: 事 --- shì --- ʂɻ̩˥˩

Answer: matter; affair; thing | Example:我有很多事要做。 | I have a lot of things to do.

Hint: Think of 'shì' as 'stuff' you need to deal with.

Question: 走 --- zǒu --- tsòu

Answer: to walk; to go | Example:我们一起走吧。 | Let's walk together.

Hint: Think of 'zoo' - you walk to see animals!

Question: 呢 --- ne --- nə

Answer: a particle used at the end of a sentence to indicate a question or emphasis| Example:你在做什么呢？ | What are you doing?

Hint: Think of 'ne' as a way to ask 'what's up?'

Question: 怎么 --- zěnme --- tsə̌n.mə

Answer: how, why | Example:你怎么知道的？ | How do you know?

Hint: Think of 'zen' for 'how' to stay calm.

Question: 现在 --- xiànzài --- ɕjɛn˥˩t͡saɪ˥˩

Answer: now; currently | Example:我现在在学习中文。 | I am currently studying Chinese.

Hint: Think of 'now' as being 'present' at the 'current' moment.

Question: 它 --- tā --- tʰā

Answer: it | Example:它是我的猫。 | It is my cat.

Hint: Think of 'tā' as 'ta-da!' revealing 'it'.

Question: 跟 --- gēn --- kən

Answer: with; to follow | Example:我跟你一起去。 | I will go with you.

Hint: Think of 'gēn' as 'go with' someone or 'follow' them.

Question: 这个 --- zhè ge --- ʈʂɤ̂ kɤ

Answer: this | Example:这个苹果很好吃。 | This apple is very tasty.

Hint: Think of 'this' as something close, like 'zhè' is close to 'ge' (guy) you know.

Question: 就是 --- jiù shì --- tɕjoʊ˥˩ ʂɻ̩˥˩

Answer: exactly; precisely; just | Example:这就是我要的。 | This is exactly what I want.

Hint: It's just what it is!

Question: 如果 --- rúguǒ --- ɻǔ.kwò

Answer: if | Example:如果明天下雨，我们就不去公园了。 | If it rains tomorrow, we won't go to the park.

Hint: Think of 'rú' as 'route' and 'guǒ' as 'go'; if you go this route...

Question: 别 --- bié --- bié

Answer: do not; other; difference | Example:别担心，一切都会好的。 | Don't worry, everything will be fine.

Hint: Think 'bié' as 'be' different or 'be' not (do not).

Question: 被 --- bèi --- peɪ˥˩

Answer: by (indicates passive voice) | Example:他被老师表扬了。 | He was praised by the teacher.

Hint: Think of '被' as a 'blanket' covering the action, making it passive.

Question: 这里 --- zhè lǐ --- ʈʂɤ̂ lî

Answer: here | Example:我喜欢这里。 | I like it here.

Hint: Think of 'here' as 'this place' - 'zhè' (this) + 'lǐ' (place)

Question: 这样 --- zhèyàng --- ʈʂɤ̂jâŋ

Answer: like this; in this way | Example:你为什么这样做？ | Why do you do it like this?

Hint: Think of 'this' as 'zhe' and 'way' as 'yang' (like yin and yang)

Question: 們 --- men --- /mən/

Answer: plural marker for pronouns and a small number of animate nouns | Example:我們是朋友。| We are friends.

Hint: Think of 'men' as in many men, indicating plural.

Question: 太 --- tài --- tʰaɪ˥˩

Answer: too; excessively | Example:这个苹果太大了。 | This apple is too big.

Hint: Think of 'tài' as 'too much pie'!

Question: 多 --- duō --- tu̯ɔ

Answer: many; much; more | Example:这里有很多人。 | There are many people here.

Hint: Think of 'duo' in English, meaning a pair, but here it's more!

Question: 自己 --- zìjǐ --- tsi˥˩ tɕi˨˩˦

Answer: oneself | Example:他自己做了这个决定。 | He made this decision by himself.

Hint: Think of 'zi' as 'self' and 'ji' as 'I'.

Question: 谁 --- shéi --- ʂeɪ˧˥

Answer: who | Example:这是谁的书？ | Whose book is this?

Hint: Think of 'shady' people asking 'who?'

Question: 快 --- kuài --- kʰuài

Answer: fast; quick | Example:他跑得很快。 | He runs very fast.

Hint: Think of a 'quick' sprint to the finish line!

Question: 不会 --- bù huì --- pu˥˩ xwei˥˩

Answer: cannot; to be unable to | Example:我不会游泳。 | I cannot swim.

Hint: Think of 'boo hoo' when you can't do something.

Question: 像 --- xiàng --- ɕjɑ̂ŋ

Answer: to resemble; to be like | Example:她像她的母亲。 | She resembles her mother.

Hint: Think of a 'mirror image' - it resembles you.

Question: 再 --- zài --- tsaɪ˥˩

Answer: again | Example:请再说一遍。 | Please say it again.

Hint: Think of '再' as a rewind button, taking you back to do it 'again'.

Question: 告诉 --- gàosù --- ˈɡaʊ̯ˌsu

Answer: to tell | Example:请告诉我你的名字。 | Please tell me your name.

Hint: Think of 'go sue' someone to tell them something important.

Question: 里 --- lǐ --- li˨˩˦

Answer: inside | Example:房间里有一个桌子。 | There is a table inside the room.

Hint: Think of 'inside' as being 'li'-terally within.

Question: 真的 --- zhēn de --- ʈʂə́n tə

Answer: real; true | Example:这是真的。 | This is real.

Hint: It's the real deal!

Question: 先生 --- xiānsheng --- ɕi̯ɛnʂəŋ

Answer: Mr.; husband; teacher | Example:这是我的先生。 | This is my husband.

Hint: Think of a 'gentleman' or 'sir' in English.

Question: 不能 --- bù néng --- pu˥˩ nəŋ˧˥

Answer: cannot; unable to | Example:我不能去参加聚会。 | I cannot attend the party.

Hint: Think of 'no' (不) and 'ability' (能) together meaning 'no ability'.

Question: 只是 --- zhǐ shì --- ʈʂɨ̌ ʂɻ̩̂

Answer: just; only | Example:我不是不想去，只是太忙了。 | It's not that I don't want to go, it's just that I'm too busy.

Hint: It's 'just' simple!

Question: 为什么 --- wèi shén me --- weɪ˥˩ ʂə̌n mə

Answer: why | Example:你为什么不来？ | Why didn't you come?

Hint: Think of 'Wei' as 'Why'.

Question: 這 --- zhè --- ʈʂɤ̂

Answer: this | Example:這是我的書。 | This is my book.

Hint: Think of 'zhè' as 'this' thing right here.

Question: 因为 --- yīnwèi --- jin˥˥wei˥˩

Answer: because | Example:我喜欢这本书，因为它非常有趣。 | I like this book because it is very interesting.

Hint: Think of 'yin' and 'wei' as 'in a way' explaining why.

Question: 不要 --- bù yào --- pu˥˩ jɑʊ˥˩

Answer: do not; don't want | Example:不要碰那个！ | Don't touch that!

Hint: Think of 'boo' (scary) and 'yow' (pain) – you don't want either!

Question: 死 --- sǐ --- si˨˩˦

Answer: to die | Example:他害怕死。 | He is afraid of dying.

Hint: Think of 'si' as 'see' the end.

Question: 找 --- zhǎo --- ʈʂàu̯

Answer: to look for; to seek | Example:我在找我的钥匙。 | I am looking for my keys.

Hint: Think of 'Zhao' looking for something.

Question: 大 --- dà --- tɑ˥˩

Answer: big; large | Example:这是一只大狗。 | This is a big dog.

Hint: Think of '大' as a big person stretching their arms wide.

Question: 已经 --- yǐjīng --- i˨˩t͡ɕiŋ˥˥

Answer: already | Example:我已经吃过饭了。 | I have already eaten.

Hint: Think of 'yi' as 'yes' and 'jing' as 'just happened'.

Question: 哦 --- ó --- ɔ

Answer: Oh (an exclamation used to express surprise, realization, or understanding)| Example:哦，我明白了。 | Oh, I understand now.

Hint: Think of 'Oh!' as a lightbulb moment.

Question: 谢谢 --- xièxiè --- ɕjɛ˥˩ɕjɛ˥˩

Answer: Thank you | Example:谢谢你的帮助。 | Thank you for your help.

Hint: Think of 'she she' as in 'she she' is grateful.

Question: 天 --- tiān --- tʰjɛn

Answer: sky; day | Example:今天的天很蓝。 | The sky is very blue today.

Hint: Think of 'Tian' as 'Tiananmen Square' which is open to the sky.

Question: 需要 --- xū yào --- ɕy˥˥ jɑʊ˥˩

Answer: to need | Example:我需要一杯水。 | I need a glass of water.

Hint: Think of 'shoe' and 'y'all' needing to walk.

Question: 真 --- zhēn --- ʈʂən

Answer: real; true; genuine | Example:这是真的。 | This is real.

Hint: Think of 'zen' - being true to yourself.

Question: 这么 --- zhème --- ʈʂɤ̂.mə

Answer: so; this way | Example:你为什么这么说？ | Why do you say it this way?

Hint: Think 'this much!'

Question: 听 --- tīng --- tʰiŋ

Answer: to listen | Example:我喜欢听音乐。 | I like to listen to music.

Hint: Think of 'ting' as 'tingle' in your ears when you listen.

Question: 叫 --- jiào --- tɕjɑ̂u

Answer: to call, to be called, to shout | Example:他叫了一声。 | He shouted.

Hint: Remember '叫' as 'yell' or 'call out' loudly.

Question: 点 --- diǎn --- tiɛn˨˩˦

Answer: point, dot, o'clock | Example:现在是三点。 | It is three o'clock now.

Hint: Think of a clock's dot for 'o'clock' and a tiny 'point' on a map.

Question: 可能 --- kě néng --- kʰɤ˨˩ nɤŋ˧˥

Answer: possible | Example:明天可能会下雨。 | It might rain tomorrow.

Hint: Think of 'kě' as 'can' and 'néng' as 'able'—'can able' means possible!

Question: 喜欢 --- xǐhuān --- ɕi˧˥xwan˥˥

Answer: to like | Example:我喜欢吃苹果。 | I like to eat apples.

Hint: Think of 'she who won' your heart, you like her!

Question: 等 --- děng --- təŋ˧˥

Answer: to wait, to await | Example:请你在这里等一下。 | Please wait here for a moment.

Hint: Think of 'waiting' in line, like at the DMV.

Question: 但是 --- dànshì --- tan˥˩ʂɻ̩˥˩

Answer: but; however | Example:我想去看电影，但是我没有时间。 | I want to go to the movies, but I don't have time.

Hint: Imagine a 'Dan' who always has a 'but' in his sentences.

Question: 用 --- yòng --- jʊŋ˥˩

Answer: to use | Example:我每天用手机。 | I use my phone every day.

Hint: Think of 'yo-yo' - you 'use' it to play!

Question: 又 --- yòu --- joʊ

Answer: again; also | Example:他又迟到了。 | He is late again.

Hint: Think of 'yo-yo' - it comes back again and again.

Question: 从 --- cóng --- tsʰʊŋ˧˥

Answer: from; to follow | Example:他从家里出发去学校。 | He departs from home to go to school.

Hint: Think of 'con' as in 'converge' - things coming from different places to one point.

Question: 所以 --- suǒ yǐ --- suɔ˨˩ i˨˩˦

Answer: therefore; so | Example:他很努力学习，所以考试成绩很好。 | He studies very hard, therefore his exam results are excellent.

Hint: Think of 'so it is' when you see '所以'.

Question: 下 --- xià --- ɕiɑ˥˩

Answer: down, below, under | Example:他在楼下等你。 | He is waiting for you downstairs.

Hint: Think of 'shah' as in 'shah of the underworld'.

Question: 东西 --- dōngxi --- tʊ́ŋɕi

Answer: thing; object | Example:我需要买一些东西。 | I need to buy some things.

Hint: East (东) and West (西) together make 'thing'!

Question: 觉得 --- juéde --- tɕyɛ̌.tɤ

Answer: to feel; to think | Example:我觉得今天的天气很好。 | I feel that today's weather is very good.

Hint: Think of 'Jude' feeling or thinking about something.

Question: 個 --- gè --- kɤ˥˩

Answer: a measure word for general use | Example:我有一個蘋果。 | I have an apple.

Hint: Think of it as a 'go-to' measure word for many things.

Question: 时候 --- shíhou --- ʂɻ̩˧˥.xoʊ̯˧˥

Answer: time; moment | Example:你什么时候回来？ | When will you come back?

Hint: Think of 'shí' like 'shi' in 'shi-take' mushrooms and 'hou' like 'how' in 'how long?'

Question: 还有 --- hái yǒu --- xaɪ̯ joʊ̯

Answer: also; in addition; still | Example:我有一个苹果，还有一个橙子。 | I have an apple, and also an orange.

Hint: Think of 'high yo!'—there's more to come!

Question: 为 --- wèi --- weɪ˥˩

Answer: for; to do; to act as | Example:他为我们做了很多事。 | He has done a lot of things for us.

Hint: Think of 'wèi' as 'way' to do something.

Question: 那个 --- nà ge --- nâ kə

Answer: that | Example:请给我那个。 | Please give me that.

Hint: Think of 'nà' as 'nah, not this one, that one!'

Question: 两 --- liǎng --- ljɑŋ˨˩˦

Answer: two; a pair | Example:我有两只猫。 | I have two cats.

Hint: Think of 'liǎng' like 'link' – it links two things together.

Question: 次 --- cì --- tsʰɨ˥˩

Answer: time; occurrence | Example:这是我第一次来这里。 | This is my first time coming here.

Hint: Think of 'counting' the 'times' something happens.

Question: 请 --- qǐng --- tɕʰiŋ˧˥

Answer: to ask, to invite, please | Example:请进。 | Please come in.

Hint: Think of 'please' as 'qing' for polite requests.

Question: 我会 --- wǒ huì --- wɔ˨˩ xwei˥˩

Answer: I can | Example:我会说中文。 | I can speak Chinese.

Hint: Think of 'I can' as 'I have the ability' (会 means 'can' or 'know how to').

Question: 一下 --- yīxià --- i˥˥ ɕja˥˩

Answer: a moment, a short while | Example:请等一下。 | Please wait a moment.

Hint: Think of 'one second' for a quick action or brief moment.

Question: 一起 --- yìqǐ --- i˥˩ tɕʰi˨˩˦

Answer: together | Example:我们一起去看电影。 | We go to watch a movie together.

Hint: Think of 'yee-chee' as 'you and me' together.

Question: 來 --- lái --- laɪ˨˩˦

Answer: to come | Example:他說他會來。 | He said he would come.

Hint: Think of someone saying 'Come here!' with a welcoming hand gesture.

Question: 最 --- zuì --- t͡swei˥˩

Answer: most; the best; the highest degree | Example:这是我最喜欢的书。 | This is my favorite book.

Hint: Think of 'zuì' as 'zooming' to the top!

Question: 而 --- ér --- ɚ˧˥

Answer: and; but; yet | Example:他喜欢跑步，而我喜欢游泳。 | He likes running, but I like swimming.

Hint: Think of '而' as a bridge connecting contrasting ideas.

Question: 孩子 --- háizi --- ˈhaɪ̯.tsɨ

Answer: child | Example:这个孩子很聪明。 | This child is very smart.

Hint: Think of 'hi' (greeting) and 'zi' (sounds like 'zee' in 'zebra') - a child saying 'hi' to a zebra.

Question: 吃 --- chī --- tʂʰɨ

Answer: to eat | Example:我喜欢吃苹果。 | I like to eat apples.

Hint: Think of 'chew' when you see 'chī'

Question: 这些 --- zhèxiē --- ʈʂɤ˥˩ ɕiɛ˥˥

Answer: these | Example:这些书是我的。 | These books are mine.

Hint: Think of 'these' as 'this' with a plural twist.

Question: 只 --- zhǐ --- ʈʂʐ̩˨˩˦

Answer: only | Example:我只想要一杯水。 | I only want a glass of water.

Hint: Think of a single 'only' bird chirping: 'chirp, chirp, zhǐ!'

Question: 应该 --- yīng gāi --- iŋ˥˥ kai˥˥

Answer: should; ought to | Example:你应该多喝水。 | You should drink more water.

Hint: You 'should' always 'yīng' for the best!

Question: 才 --- cái --- tsʰaɪ˧˥

Answer: just; only then | Example:我才到家。 | I just got home.

Hint: Just in time for cake!

Question: 小 --- xiǎo --- ɕjɑʊ̯

Answer: small | Example:这个苹果很小。 | This apple is very small.

Hint: Think of 'small' as 'xiǎo' like a tiny 'shout'.

Question: 打 --- dǎ --- tɑ˨˩˦

Answer: to hit, to strike, to beat | Example:他用拳头打了沙袋。 | He hit the punching bag with his fist.

Hint: Imagine a drum (dǎ) being hit.

Question: 看到 --- kàn dào --- kʰan˥˩ tɑʊ˥˩

Answer: to see; to catch sight of | Example:我在街上看到了一只猫。 | I saw a cat on the street.

Hint: Think of 'can do' when you 'see' something. You 'can do' it because you saw it!

Question: 更 --- gèng --- kɤŋ˥˩

Answer: more; further; even more | Example:我想要更大的房子。 | I want a bigger house.

Hint: Think of 'gèng' as 'going' further.

Question: 出 --- chū --- tʂʰū

Answer: to go out; to come out | Example:他每天早上七点出门。 | He goes out of the house every morning at 7 o'clock.

Hint: Think of 'chū' as 'choo-choo' like a train going out of the station.

Question: 中 --- zhōng --- ʈʂʊ́ŋ

Answer: middle; center | Example:他站在房间中。 | He stands in the middle of the room.

Hint: Think of 'middle' as the 'core' or 'center' of something.

Question: 帮 --- bāng --- paŋ⁵⁵

Answer: help | Example:请帮我一下。 | Please help me a bit.

Hint: Think of 'bāng' as a 'bang' of help!

Question: 爱 --- ài --- aɪ˥˩

Answer: Love | Example:我爱你。 | I love you.

Hint: Think of 'I' love you.

Question: 拿 --- ná --- nǎ

Answer: to take; to hold | Example:请把书拿给我。 | Please take the book and give it to me.

Hint: Imagine 'ná' sounds like 'nah', as if you're saying 'nah, I'll take it'.

Question: 那么 --- nàme --- nâ.mə

Answer: so, then, in that case | Example:如果你不喜欢，那么我们可以换一个。 | If you don't like it, then we can change it.

Hint: Think of 'then' as 'nàme' to remember the sequence.

Question: 您 --- nín --- nǐn

Answer: you (polite form) | Example:您好！请问有什么可以帮您的吗？ | Hello! Is there anything I can help you with?

Hint: Think of 'nín' as 'nin'jas are polite!

Question: 哪 --- nǎ --- nǎ

Answer: which; where | Example:你要去哪儿？ | Where are you going?

Hint: Think of 'nǎ' as asking 'which' or 'where' something is.

Question: 当 --- dāng --- tɑ́ŋ

Answer: to be; to act as; to serve as | Example:他想当医生。 | He wants to be a doctor.

Hint: Think of 'dāng' as 'dang, I have to be the leader!'

Question: 干 --- gān --- ɡán

Answer: dry | Example:这条毛巾已经干了。 | This towel is already dry.

Hint: Think of 'dry' humor – it's not wet!

Question: 會 --- huì --- xuèi

Answer: to know how to, to be able to, meeting | Example:我會說中文。 | I can speak Chinese.

Hint: Think of 'huì' as being able to 'handle it' or 'meet up'.

Question: 嘿 --- hēi --- heɪ

Answer: Hey (an informal greeting) | Example:嘿，你好吗？ | Hey, how are you?

Hint: Think of 'Hey!' with a little extra enthusiasm.

Question: 工作 --- gōngzuò --- kʊŋ˥˥tswɔ˥˩

Answer: work; job | Example:我喜欢我的工作。 | I like my job.

Hint: Think of 'gong' as in 'gong show' and 'zuò' as in 'zoo'—work can sometimes feel like a zoo!

Question: 所有 --- suǒyǒu --- suɔ˧˥.joʊ˨˩˦

Answer: all; every; everything | Example:他所有的书都在书架上。 | All his books are on the shelf.

Hint: Think of 'so you' have everything.

Question: 问题 --- wèn tí --- wən tʰi

Answer: problem; question | Example:这个问题很难解决。 | This problem is difficult to solve.

Hint: When you have a 'wen' (when) question, you have a 'ti' (tea) problem.

Question: 该 --- gāi --- kaɪ

Answer: should; ought to | Example:你该做作业了。 | You should do your homework.

Hint: Think of 'guide' - something you should follow.

Question: 时间 --- shíjiān --- ʂɻ̩˧˥ tɕjɛn˥˥

Answer: time | Example:我没有时间。 | I don't have time.

Hint: Imagine a clock shaped like a 'shi' (lion) keeping track of 'time'.

Question: 呀 --- ya --- jɑ

Answer: an exclamation particle used to express surprise, doubt, or to soften the tone | Example:你来了呀！ | You're here, ya!

Hint: Think of 'ya!' as a surprised cheer or a way to soften your tone.

Question: 钱 --- qián --- tɕʰjɛn˧˥

Answer: money | Example:我需要更多的钱。 | I need more money.

Hint: Think of 'cha-ching' when you hear 'qián'!

Question: 带 --- dài --- taɪ˥˩

Answer: belt; to bring; to carry | Example:请记得带你的钥匙。 | Please remember to bring your keys.

Hint: Think of 'dai' as 'tie' something you bring or carry with you.

Question: 嗯 --- èn --- ən

Answer: Hmm, used to express agreement or to indicate thinking | Example:嗯，我明白了。| Hmm, I understand.

Hint: Think of 'Hmm' as a thoughtful sound.

Question: 还是 --- háishì --- haɪ̯.ʂɻ̩

Answer: still; or; nevertheless | Example:你还是喜欢喝咖啡吗？ | Do you still like to drink coffee?

Hint: When in doubt, use 'háishì' to figure it out!

Question: 可 --- kě --- kʰɤ˨˩˦

Answer: can; may; able to | Example:你可不可以帮我？ | Can you help me?

Hint: Think of '可' as a key that unlocks the ability to do something.

Question: 将 --- jiāng --- tɕiɑŋ

Answer: will, shall, going to | Example:我将去北京。 | I will go to Beijing.

Hint: Think of '将' as a future commander 'will' lead the troops.

Question: 沒 --- méi --- meɪ˧˥

Answer: not; have not | Example:我今天沒去上班。 | I didn't go to work today.

Hint: Think of 'meh' as in 'I don't have it, meh.'

Question: 一样 --- yī yàng --- i˥˥ jɑŋ˥˩

Answer: same; alike | Example:我们穿着一样的衣服。 | We are wearing the same clothes.

Hint: Think of 'one' (yī) 'kind' (yàng) – one kind of thing is the same.

Question: 回 --- huí --- xwei˧˥

Answer: to return | Example:我今天晚上回家。 | I am returning home tonight.

Hint: Think of 'huí' as 'way' back home.

Question: 开始 --- kāi shǐ --- kaɪ̯ ʂɻ̩

Answer: to start; to begin | Example:我们现在开始吧。 | Let's start now.

Hint: Start your car (kāi) and begin your journey (shǐ).

Question: 看看 --- kànkan --- kʰân.kʰan

Answer: to take a look | Example:你可以看看这个吗？ | Can you take a look at this?

Hint: Think of 'can-can' dancers taking a quick look around.

Question: 嗎 --- ma --- mɑ

Answer: a question particle used at the end of a sentence to indicate a yes-no question | Example:你好吗？ | How are you?

Hint: Think of 'ma' as the question mark of Chinese.

Question: 比 --- bǐ --- pi˨˩˦

Answer: to compare | Example:他比我高。 | He is taller than me.

Hint: Think of 'B' for 'Better' when you compare.

Question: 朋友 --- péngyǒu --- pʰə̌ŋ.jòʊ

Answer: friend | Example:他是我的好朋友。 | He is my good friend.

Hint: A 'penguin' (péng) and 'yo-yo' (yǒu) are friends!

Question: 们 --- men --- mən

Answer: plural marker for pronouns and a small number of animate nouns | Example:我们都是学生。| We are all students.

Hint: Think of 'men' as in 'many men' to remember it means plural.

Question: 嘛 --- ma --- mɑ

Answer: a particle used to emphasize the obvious or to soften the tone | Example:你知道嘛，这个很简单。| You know, this is very simple.

Hint: Think of 'ma' as a verbal nudge, like 'duh' in English.

Question: 然后 --- ránhòu --- ʐan˧˥xoʊ̯˥˩

Answer: then; after that | Example:我先做作业，然后看电视。 | I will do my homework first, then watch TV.

Hint: First A, then B.

Question: 年 --- nián --- niɛn˧˥

Answer: year | Example:新年快乐！ | Happy New Year!

Hint: Think of 'new year' when you see 'nián'.

Question: 希望 --- xī wàng --- ɕi⁵⁵ wɑŋ⁵¹

Answer: hope | Example:我希望明天会是一个好天气。 | I hope tomorrow will be a good day.

Hint: Hope is like a 'wish' (xī) that you 'want' (wàng) to come true.

Question: 地方 --- dìfāng --- ti˥˩ faŋ˥

Answer: place; location | Example:这个地方很美。 | This place is very beautiful.

Hint: Think of 'di' as 'destination' and 'fang' as 'found' – a place you found.

Question: 一定 --- yídìng --- i˧˥ tɪŋ˥˩

Answer: certainly; definitely | Example:你一定会成功。 | You will definitely succeed.

Hint: Think of 'yi' as 'yes' and 'ding' as 'definitely'.

Question: 今天 --- jīn tiān --- tɕin tʰjɛn

Answer: today | Example:今天是个好日子。 | Today is a good day.

Hint: Think 'jin' rhymes with 'win'—you win today!

Question: 回来 --- huílái --- xwei˧˥lai˧˥

Answer: to return, to come back | Example:我明天回来。 | I will come back tomorrow.

Hint: Think of 'who will I see when I come back?'

Question: 啦 --- la --- la

Answer: a particle used to indicate a change of state or to soften the tone | Example:他来了啦。 | He has come.

Hint: Think of 'la' as a friendly nudge to show something has changed or to make a sentence sound softer.

Question: 一切 --- yīqiè --- i˥˩ t͡ɕʰi̯ɛ˥˩

Answer: everything; all | Example:一切都会好起来的。 | Everything will be alright.

Hint: Think of 'one cut' (一切) to mean everything is included in one slice.

Question: 相信 --- xiāng xìn --- ɕjɑŋ⁵⁵ ɕin⁵¹

Answer: to believe; to trust | Example:我相信你。 | I believe you.

Hint: Trust your 'xiang' (sounds like 'shiny') instincts!

Question: 說 --- shuō --- ʂu̯o

Answer: to speak, to say | Example:他每天都說很多話。 | He speaks a lot every day.

Hint: Think of 'show' as in 'show and tell' where you speak.

Question: 事情 --- shìqing --- ʂɻ̂.t͡ɕʰiŋ

Answer: matter; affair; thing | Example:我有很多事情要做。 | I have many things to do.

Hint: Think of 'shì' as 'shit' because sometimes matters or affairs can be a mess!

Question: 找到 --- zhǎo dào --- ʈʂàu tàu

Answer: to find | Example:我终于找到我的钥匙了。 | I finally found my keys.

Hint: Think of 'zhao' as 'search' and 'dao' as 'arrive'—you search until you arrive at what you're looking for.

Question: 当然 --- dāngrán --- tɑ́ŋ ɻǎn

Answer: of course; naturally | Example:你要去看电影吗？当然！ | Do you want to go watch a movie? Of course!

Hint: When someone asks if you want cake, you say 'dāngrán!'

Question: 一直 --- yīzhí --- i˥˥ ʈʂɻ̩˧˥

Answer: always; continuously; straight | Example:他一直在学习。 | He has been studying continuously.

Hint: Always straight like a line

Question: 起来 --- qǐ lái --- tɕʰi˨˩˦ lai˧˥

Answer: to get up; to rise | Example:他每天早上六点起来。 | He gets up at six every morning.

Hint: Think of 'rise and shine' to remember 'to get up'.

Question: 地 --- dì --- ti˥˩

Answer: Ground; Earth | Example:他站在地上。 | He is standing on the ground.

Hint: Think of 'Dirt' for 'dì'.

Question: 爸爸 --- bàba --- ˈpɑːˌpɑː

Answer: father | Example:我的爸爸很喜欢看书。 | My father likes to read books.

Hint: Think of 'papa' in English, which also means father.

Question: 非常 --- fēi cháng --- feɪ˥˥ tʂʰɑŋ˧˥

Answer: very; extremely | Example:这个菜非常好吃。 | This dish is very delicious.

Hint: Think of 'very' as 'fēi' and 'extremely' as 'cháng'.

Question: 没事 --- méi shì --- mei˧˥ ʂɻ̩˥˩

Answer: It's okay; No problem | Example:别担心，没事的。 | Don't worry, it's okay.

Hint: Think 'May sure' everything is fine.

Question: 麼 --- me --- mə

Answer: what; how; why (used in questions) | Example:你在做什麼？ | What are you doing?

Hint: Think of 'me' asking 'what?'

Question: 那些 --- nàxiē --- nâ ɕjɛ

Answer: those | Example:那些书是我的。 | Those books are mine.

Hint: Think of 'nà' as 'that' and 'xiē' as 'some'. Together, they mean 'those'.

Question: 见 --- jiàn --- tɕjɛn

Answer: to see | Example:我明天见你。 | I will see you tomorrow.

Hint: Imagine seeing a 'giant' (sounds like jiàn) in front of you.

Question: 什麼 --- shénme --- ʂə̌n.mə

Answer: what | Example:你在做什麼？ | What are you doing?

Hint: Think of 'shénme' as 'shun me' when you ask 'what?'

Question: 杀 --- shā --- ʂɑ̄

Answer: to kill | Example:他在电影里扮演了一个杀手。 | He played a killer in the movie.

Hint: Think of 'shark attack' - deadly!

Question: 离开 --- líkāi --- li˧˥ kʰai˥˩

Answer: to leave | Example:他不得不离开家。 | He had to leave home.

Hint: Think of 'leaving' a 'kai' (car) behind.

Question: 明白 --- míng bái --- mɪŋ˥˩ pai˧˥

Answer: to understand; clear | Example:我终于明白了这个问题。 | I finally understood this problem.

Hint: When you '明白' (understand), things become as clear as day!

Question: 妈妈 --- māma --- ˈmɑːmɑ

Answer: mother | Example:我爱我的妈妈。 | I love my mother.

Hint: Think of 'mama' in English, which is an informal term for mother.

Question: 出来 --- chū lái --- ʈʂʰu⁵⁵ lai⁵

Answer: to come out | Example:他从房间里出来了。 | He came out of the room.

Hint: Think of a magician saying 'come out!' to make something appear.

Question: 一点 --- yīdiǎn --- i˥˩ tja̠n˥˩

Answer: a little; a bit | Example:请给我一点水。 | Please give me a little water.

Hint: Think of 'one dot' as just a little bit.

Question: 你好 --- nǐ hǎo --- ni˧˥ xau˨˩˦

Answer: Hello | Example:你好，我叫小明。 | Hello, my name is Xiao Ming.

Hint: Think of it as 'knee how' to say hello!

Question: 时 --- shí --- ʂɻ̩˧˥

Answer: time; season | Example:现在是时候去吃饭了。 | Now is the time to eat.

Hint: Think of 'shí' as 'time' ticking by like a clock.

Question: 前 --- qián --- tɕʰjɛn˧˥

Answer: front; forward; before | Example:他站在我前面。 | He is standing in front of me.

Hint: Think of 'Qian' as 'Queue in front'

Question: 三 --- sān --- sân

Answer: three | Example:我有三只猫。 | I have three cats.

Hint: Think of a triangle with three sides.

Question: 发生 --- fāshēng --- fā ʂə́ŋ

Answer: to happen; to occur | Example:昨天晚上发生了一件奇怪的事情。 | Something strange happened last night.

Hint: Think of 'fa' as 'fast' and 'sheng' as 'showing' – things happen fast!

Question: 对不起 --- duìbuqǐ --- tweɪ˨˩pu˧˥tɕʰi˨˩˦

Answer: Sorry | Example:对不起，我迟到了。 | Sorry, I am late.

Hint: Think of 'Do it but... oops!'

Question: 认为 --- rènwéi --- ʐən˥˩ wei˧˥

Answer: to think; to believe | Example:我认为这个主意很好。 | I think this idea is very good.

Hint: Think of 'Ren' (人) as a person and 'Wei' (为) as doing something. A person doing thinking.

Question: 真是 --- zhēn shì --- ʈʂə́n ʂɻ̩̂

Answer: really is; truly | Example:你真是一个好朋友。 | You really are a good friend.

Hint: Think of 'really is' as 'truly is' to emphasize the truth.

Question: 之 --- zhī --- ʈʂɻ̩⁵⁵

Answer: of; 's (possessive particle) | Example:这是我的书之封面。 | This is the cover of my book.

Hint: Think of '之' as the glue that shows possession, like 's in English.

Question: 必须 --- bìxū --- pi˥˩ ɕy˥

Answer: must; have to | Example:你必须完成你的作业。 | You must complete your homework.

Hint: You 'must' 'be sure' to do it.

Question: 抱歉 --- bàoqiàn --- paʊ˨˩˦ tɕʰjɛn˥˩

Answer: Sorry | Example:对不起，我真的很抱歉。 | I'm sorry, I really apologize.

Hint: Think of 'bow' and 'chant' to remember 'sorry'.

Question: 那里 --- nàlǐ --- nâlǐ

Answer: there | Example:我想去那里。 | I want to go there.

Hint: Think of 'nà' as 'that' and 'lǐ' as 'location'.

Question: 住 --- zhù --- ʈʂu˥˩

Answer: to live; to reside | Example:我住在北京。 | I live in Beijing.

Hint: Think of 'zoo' animals having a place to live.

Question: 也许 --- yěxǔ --- jèɕỳ

Answer: perhaps; maybe | Example:他也许会来。 | Perhaps he will come.

Hint: Think of 'yeah, sure' when you're unsure!

Question: 行 --- xíng --- ɕǐŋ

Answer: to go; to walk; to travel; capable; competent; okay | Example:你明天能行吗？| Can you manage it tomorrow?

Hint: Think of 'X-ing' as in crossing a street (to go/walk/travel).

Question: 有人 --- yǒu rén --- joʊ˧˥ ɻən˧˥

Answer: someone; somebody | Example:有人在门口等你。 | Someone is waiting for you at the door.

Hint: Think of '有' (have) and '人' (person) - to have a person is to have someone.

Question: 哪里 --- nǎ lǐ --- nɑ˨˩ li˨˩˦

Answer: where | Example:你知道他在哪里吗？ | Do you know where he is?

Hint: Think of 'na' as 'nah, where?'

Question: 后 --- hòu --- xoʊ˥˩

Answer: after; behind; queen | Example:他在我后面。 | He is behind me.

Hint: Think of 'after' as what comes after a queen in a card game.

Question: 意思 --- yìsi --- i˥˩ sɿ˥

Answer: meaning; intention | Example:这个词的意思是什么？ | What is the meaning of this word?

Hint: Think of 'yes' (yì) and 'see' (si) to remember 'meaning' or 'intention'.

Question: 过来 --- guò lái --- kuo˥˩ lai˧˥

Answer: come over; come here | Example:请你过来一下。 | Please come over for a moment.

Hint: Think of 'go' and 'lie' to remember 'come here'.

Question: 先 --- xiān --- ɕiɛn

Answer: first, before | Example:你先走，我马上来。 | You go first, I'll come right away.

Hint: Think of 'X' as marking the spot, the 'first' place to look.

Question: 件 --- jiàn --- tɕjɛn˥˩

Answer: item, piece, measure word for clothes and events | Example:这件衣服很漂亮。 | This piece of clothing is very beautiful.

Hint: Think of '件' as a 'piece' of something, like a piece of clothing or an item.

Question: 几 --- jǐ --- tɕi˧˩˧

Answer: how many; a few | Example:你有几个苹果？ | How many apples do you have?

Hint: Think of 'gee, how many?'

Question: 并 --- bìng --- pɪŋ

Answer: and; also; together with | Example:他喜欢喝咖啡，并且喜欢吃蛋糕。 | He likes to drink coffee, and also likes to eat cake.

Hint: Think of 'bing' as bringing things together.

Question: 大家 --- dàjiā --- tɑ˥˩tɕjɑ˥˥

Answer: everyone | Example:大家好！ | Hello everyone!

Hint: Think of 'big family' - everyone together!

Question: 准备 --- zhǔn bèi --- ʈʂwə̀n pêi

Answer: prepare | Example:我们需要准备晚餐。 | We need to prepare dinner.

Hint: Think of 'zhu' as 'you' and 'bei' as 'ready' - 'You ready?'

Question: 還 --- huán --- xwǎn

Answer: return | Example:我明天會還你那本書。 | I will return that book to you tomorrow.

Hint: Think of 'return' as 'handing back' something.

Question: 一些 --- yīxiē --- i˥˩ ɕi̯e˥

Answer: some; a few; a little | Example:我有一些问题。 | I have some questions.

Hint: Think of 'a few' as 'one share' (yīxiē) of something.

Question: 与 --- yǔ --- y˨˩˦

Answer: and; with | Example:我与他一起去公园。 | I went to the park with him.

Hint: Think of 'you and me' together.

Question: 妈 --- mā --- mɑ˥

Answer: Mom | Example:我爱我的妈。 | I love my mom.

Hint: Think of 'mama' without the second 'ma'.

Question: 新 --- xīn --- ɕin

Answer: new | Example:我买了一件新衣服。 | I bought a new piece of clothing.

Hint: Think of 'shin' guards, which are new and shiny!

Question: 所 --- suǒ --- suɔ˨˩˦

Answer: place; location; office | Example:他去了办公室所。 | He went to the office.

Hint: Think of a 'spot' where something is located.

Question: 问 --- wèn --- wən˥˩

Answer: to ask | Example:我想问你一个问题。 | I want to ask you a question.

Hint: Think of 'When' you need to ask something.

Question: 女人 --- nǚrén --- ny˨˩˦ ʐən˧˥

Answer: woman | Example:那个女人在公园里散步。 | That woman is walking in the park.

Hint: Think of 'new ren' (new person) as a woman.

Question: 怎 --- zěn --- tsən˨˩˦

Answer: how; why | Example:你今天怎麼樣？ | How are you today?

Hint: Think of 'zen' monks asking 'how' and 'why' about life.

Question: 这儿 --- zhèr --- ʈʂɤ̂ɻ

Answer: here | Example:你可以在这儿等我。 | You can wait for me here.

Hint: Imagine saying 'here' with a pirate accent: 'zhèr she blows!'

Question: 出去 --- chūqù --- tʂʰu⁵¹ tɕʰy⁵¹

Answer: to go out | Example:我想出去散步。 | I want to go out for a walk.

Hint: Think of 'choo-choo' train going out of the station.

Question: 得到 --- dédào --- tə˧˥ tɑʊ˥˩

Answer: to get; to obtain | Example:他终于得到了他想要的工作。 | He finally got the job he wanted.

Hint: When you 'dédào' something, you 'did do' something right to get it.

Question: 喝 --- hē --- xɤ

Answer: to drink | Example:我每天喝很多水。 | I drink a lot of water every day.

Hint: Think of 'hē' as 'Hey, let's drink!'

Question: 起 --- qǐ --- tɕʰi˨˩˦

Answer: to rise, to start | Example:他每天早上六点起床。 | He gets up at six o'clock every morning.

Hint: Think of 'qi' as in 'quick start' to remember 'to start'.

Question: 為 --- wèi --- weiˋ

Answer: for; to act as; to become | Example:他為我們做了一頓晚餐。 | He made a dinner for us.

Hint: Think of 'wèi' as 'way' to do something for someone.

Question: 些 --- xiē --- ɕjɛ

Answer: some; a few | Example:我有些问题。 | I have some questions.

Hint: Think of 'some' as 'xiē' small things.

Question: 不过 --- búguò --- pu˧˥ kwo˥˩

Answer: but; however | Example:我想去看电影，不过我没有时间。 | I want to go to the movies, but I don't have time.

Hint: Think of 'but' as a 'bug' in your plans.

Question: 很多 --- hěn duō --- xə̌n tuɔ́

Answer: many; a lot | Example:我有很多朋友。 | I have many friends.

Hint: Think of 'hen' (a bird) laying 'a lot' of eggs.

Question: 第一 --- dì yī --- ti˥˩ i˥

Answer: first | Example:他是班上的第一名。 | He is the first in the class.

Hint: Think of 'D' as in 'Dominant' and 'Yī' as in 'Yay!' for being first.

Question: 生活 --- shēnghuó --- ʂə́ŋ.xwɔ̌

Answer: life; to live | Example:他的生活很幸福。 | His life is very happy.

Hint: Think of 'sheng' (生) as 'birth' and 'huo' (活) as 'active' - life is being actively born every day.

Question: 任何 --- rènhé --- ʐə̂n.xɤ̌

Answer: any; whichever; whatever | Example:你可以选择任何你喜欢的颜色。 | You can choose any color you like.

Hint: Think of 'any' as 'ren' (人) and 'he' (和) - any person and anything!

Question: 为了 --- wèi le --- ˈweɪ lə

Answer: In order to; for the sake of | Example:他每天努力学习，为了将来能有更好的生活。 | He studies hard every day in order to have a better life in the future.

Hint: Think of 'way' as in 'the way to achieve something'

Question: 對 --- duì --- tweɪ˥˩

Answer: correct; right | Example:你的答案是對的。 | Your answer is correct.

Hint: Think of 'dui' as 'do it right'.

Question: 只有 --- zhǐ yǒu --- ʈʂɻ̩²¹⁴ i̯oʊ̯²¹⁴

Answer: only | Example:只有他能完成这个任务。 | Only he can complete this task.

Hint: Only zebras yawn openly.

Question: 向 --- xiàng --- ɕjɑŋ˥˩

Answer: towards, to, direction | Example:我们向东走。 | We walk towards the east.

Hint: Think of 'xiang' as 'aiming' towards something.

Question: 以为 --- yǐwéi --- i˨˩˦ wei˧˥

Answer: to think; to believe (usually mistakenly) | Example:我以为今天是星期五。 | I thought today was Friday.

Hint: Think you're right, but you're wrong!

Question: 坐 --- zuò --- tswɔ˥˩

Answer: to sit | Example:请坐在这里。 | Please sit here.

Hint: Imagine saying 'Whoa!' as you sit down suddenly.

Question: 怎么样 --- zěnme yàng --- tsə́n.mə yɑ̂ŋ

Answer: How; how about; what about | Example:你今天感觉怎么样？ | How do you feel today?

Hint: How's the zen? (sounds like 'zen' and asks 'how')

Question: 开 --- kāi --- kaɪ

Answer: to open; to start | Example:请开门。 | Please open the door.

Hint: Think of 'kai' as 'key' to open/start something.

Question: 或 --- huò --- xuɔ˥˩

Answer: or | Example:你要喝茶或咖啡？ | Do you want tea or coffee?

Hint: Think of 'or' as a choice, and 'huò' sounds like 'whoa,' making you pause to choose.

Question: 噢 --- ō --- oʊ

Answer: Oh (expressing realization or understanding) | Example:噢，我明白了。 | Oh, I understand.

Hint: Think of 'Oh, I get it!'

Question: 位 --- wèi --- weɪ˥˩

Answer: position, place, seat | Example:请问，这个位子有人吗？ | Excuse me, is this seat taken?

Hint: Think of 'wait' for your place or position.

Question: 已 --- yǐ --- i˨˩˦

Answer: already | Example:他已离开。 | He has already left.

Hint: Think of 'already' as something 'yi' (easy) done.

Question: 是不是 --- shì bu shì --- ʂɻ̩⁵¹ pu⁵¹ ʂɻ̩⁵¹

Answer: Is it or not; whether or not | Example:你是不是学生？ | Are you a student or not?

Hint: Think of it as asking 'yes or no?' in a single phrase.

Question: 放 --- fàng --- fɑ̂ŋ

Answer: to release, to put, to place | Example:请把书放在桌子上。 | Please put the book on the table.

Hint: Think of 'fàng' as 'freeing' something.

Question: 嗨 --- hāi --- haɪ

Answer: Hi | Example:嗨，你好吗？ | Hi, how are you?

Hint: Imagine saying 'hi' with a big smile, like you're really excited!

Question: 车 --- chē --- ʈʂʰɤ

Answer: car | Example:我有一辆新车。 | I have a new car.

Hint: Think of the 'ch' sound in 'chase' - cars chase each other!

Question: 男人 --- nán rén --- nǎn ʐən

Answer: man | Example:那个男人在公园里跑步。 | That man is running in the park.

Hint: Think of 'nan' as 'man' with an 'n' in front.

Question: 而且 --- érqiě --- ɑɻ˧˥ tɕʰjɛ˨˩˦

Answer: Moreover; in addition | Example:他很聪明，而且很努力。 | He is very smart, moreover, he is very hardworking.

Hint: Moreover, 'érqiě' adds more to the story!

Question: 不错 --- bù cuò --- pu˥˩ tsʰwo˥˩

Answer: not bad; pretty good | Example:这家餐厅的菜不错。 | The food at this restaurant is pretty good.

Hint: Think of 'not wrong' as 'not bad'.

Question: 感觉 --- gǎn jué --- kan˥˩ tɕyɛ˧˥

Answer: feeling; sense | Example:我有一种奇怪的感觉。 | I have a strange feeling.

Hint: Feeling like a 'gan' (gang) of emotions.

Question: 发现 --- fāxiàn --- fā.ɕjɛn

Answer: to discover; to find | Example:我发现了一本有趣的书。 | I discovered an interesting book.

Hint: Finding something new is like a 'fa' (far) away 'xiàn' (sight).

Question: 这种 --- zhè zhǒng --- ʈʂɤ̂ ʈʂʊ̀ŋ

Answer: this kind; this type | Example:这种水果很甜。 | This kind of fruit is very sweet.

Hint: Think of 'this kind' as a 'specific type' of something.

Question: 世界 --- shìjiè --- ʂɻ̩⁵¹ tɕi̯ɛ⁵¹

Answer: world | Example:我们生活在一个美丽的世界。 | We live in a beautiful world.

Hint: Think of 'she' (shì) and 'jet' (jiè) flying around the world.

Question: 過 --- guò --- ɡuò

Answer: to pass, to cross, to go over | Example:我们一起过马路。 | We cross the street together.

Hint: Think of 'go' to remember 'guò' means to go over or pass.

Question: 家 --- jiā --- tɕi̯ɑ̄

Answer: home, family | Example:我爱我的家。 | I love my home.

Hint: Think of 'jia' as 'gathering' where family gathers.

Question: 话 --- huà --- xuɑ˥˩

Answer: word; speech; talk | Example:他说了很多话。 | He said a lot of words.

Hint: Think of 'hua' as 'whoa' - words can make you say 'whoa'!

Question: 上帝 --- shàngdì --- ʂɑ̂ŋ.tî

Answer: God | Example:上帝保佑你。 | God bless you.

Hint: Think of 'Shang' as 'up' and 'Di' as 'ruler' - the ruler up high.

Question: 买 --- mǎi --- maɪ˨˩˦

Answer: to buy | Example:我想买这个。 | I want to buy this.

Hint: Think of 'mǎi' as 'my' money being spent.

Question: 名字 --- míngzì --- mǐŋ.tsɨ

Answer: name | Example:我的名字是李华。 | My name is Li Hua.

Hint: Think of 'ming' as 'my' and 'zi' as 'identity' - my identity is my name.

Question: 之前 --- zhīqián --- ʈʂʐ̩⁵⁵ tɕʰjɛn³⁵

Answer: before; prior to | Example:我们之前见过面。 | We have met before.

Hint: Think of 'pre' as in 'pre-vious' or 'pre-pare'.

Question: 不用 --- bú yòng --- pu˧˥ i̯ʊŋ˥˩

Answer: no need; not necessary | Example:你不用担心。 | You don't need to worry.

Hint: No need to use it!

Question: 喂 --- wèi --- weɪ˥˩

Answer: Hello (used in phone calls); to feed | Example:喂，你好！ | Hello, how are you?

Hint: Imagine saying 'way' to get someone's attention on the phone.

Question: 可是 --- kěshì --- kʰɤ˥˩ʂɻ̩˥˩

Answer: but | Example:我想去看电影，可是我没有时间。 | I want to go watch a movie, but I don't have time.

Hint: Imagine a cat (kě) saying 'but' (shì) to everything.

Question: 快点 --- kuài diǎn --- kʰuài tɕjɛn

Answer: Hurry up | Example:我们要迟到了，快点！ | We are going to be late, hurry up!

Hint: Quick like a flash!

Question: 搞 --- gǎo --- ɡɑ̀ʊ

Answer: to do; to make; to get; to engage in | Example:他正在搞一个新项目。 | He is working on a new project.

Hint: Think of 'go' as in 'go do something'.

Question: 以 --- yǐ --- i˨˩˦

Answer: to use; by means of | Example:我们以这种方式解决问题。 | We solve problems by means of this method.

Hint: Think of 'yi' as 'use it!'

Question: 的话 --- de huà --- də huɑ

Answer: if | Example:如果你来的话，我们一起去看电影。 | If you come, we will go watch a movie together.

Hint: Think 'if' you 'de-huà' (de-hat) your head, you'll catch a cold!

Question: 玩 --- wán --- wán

Answer: to play | Example:孩子们在公园里玩。 | The children are playing in the park.

Hint: Think of 'wandering' around having fun.

Question: 肯定 --- kěn dìng --- kʰə̌n tîŋ

Answer: definitely; certainly; affirm | Example:我肯定他会来。 | I am sure he will come.

Hint: 肯 (kěn) sounds like 'can' and 定 (dìng) sounds like 'ding' - you 'can ding' the bell of certainty!

Question: 记得 --- jìde --- tɕi˥˩ tɤ˧˥

Answer: to remember | Example:你记得他的名字吗？ | Do you remember his name?

Hint: Remember to 'jìde' the details!

Question: 跑 --- pǎo --- pʰɑʊ̯˨˩˦

Answer: run | Example:他每天早上去公园跑步。 | He goes to the park to run every morning.

Hint: Think of 'pao' as 'pow' - like a fast superhero running!

Question: 下来 --- xià lái --- ɕjâ lâi

Answer: to come down | Example:请你下来，我有话要说。 | Please come down, I have something to say.

Hint: Think of 'xià' as 'down' and 'lái' as 'come', so 'come down'.

Question: 最好 --- zuì hǎo --- t͡su̯ei⁵¹ xau̯²¹⁴⁻²¹⁽⁴⁾

Answer: best; had better | Example:你最好早点睡觉。 | You had better go to bed early.

Hint: Think of 'best' as 'the most good'.

Question: 没错 --- méi cuò --- mei˧˥ tsʰwo˥˩

Answer: That's right; Exactly | Example:你说的没错。 | What you said is exactly right.

Hint: Think of 'no mistake' meaning 'that's right'.

Question: 电话 --- diànhuà --- tiɛn⁵¹xwa⁵¹

Answer: telephone | Example:我正在打电话。 | I am making a phone call.

Hint: Dial 'diàn' to 'huà' (talk) on the phone.

Question: 等等 --- děng děng --- tɤŋ tɤŋ

Answer: wait a moment; etc. | Example:请你等等，我马上回来。 | Please wait a moment, I'll be right back.

Hint: Think of 'waiting' in line and saying 'etc.' to add more things.

Question: 不行 --- bù xíng --- pu˥˩ ɕiŋ˧˥

Answer: Not okay; not allowed; won't do | Example:这个方法不行。 | This method won't do.

Hint: Imagine someone saying 'boo' to something not allowed.

Question: 手 --- shǒu --- ʂoʊ˨˩˦

Answer: hand | Example:他的手很大。 | His hand is very big.

Hint: Think of 'show' your hand.

Question: 亲爱的 --- qīn'ài de --- tɕʰin˥˥ ai˥˩ tə

Answer: Dear, beloved | Example:亲爱的，你今天过得怎么样？ | Dear, how was your day today?

Hint: Think of 'Qin' as 'kin' and 'ai' as 'I', like 'I love my kin'.

Question: 活 --- huó --- xuɔ̌

Answer: alive; living; to live | Example:他还活着。 | He is still alive.

Hint: Think of 'huó' as 'whoa, I'm alive!'

Question: 回家 --- huí jiā --- xwei˧˥ tɕja˥˥

Answer: to go home | Example:我每天晚上六点回家。 | I go home every day at 6 PM.

Hint: Think of 'hui' as 'hurry' and 'jia' as 'house'. Hurry to your house!

Question: 女孩 --- nǚhái --- ny˨˩xaɪ˧˥

Answer: girl | Example:那个女孩喜欢读书。 | That girl likes to read books.

Hint: Think of 'new high' for a young girl growing up.

Question: 错 --- cuò --- tsʰuɔ˥˩

Answer: wrong; mistake | Example:他做错了作业。 | He did his homework wrong.

Hint: Think of 'cuò' as 'caught' making a mistake.

Question: 掉 --- diào --- tiɑ̀ʊ

Answer: to fall; to drop; to lose | Example:我的手机掉了。 | My phone fell.

Hint: Imagine something 'diao' (down) from your hand.

Question: 如何 --- rúhé --- ɻu˧˥ xɤ˧˥

Answer: how; in what way | Example:你知道如何解决这个问题吗？ | Do you know how to solve this problem?

Hint: Imagine asking someone 'How RU doing?'

Question: 成 --- chéng --- ʈʂʰə̌ŋ

Answer: to become; to succeed | Example:他终于成了一个医生。 | He finally became a doctor.

Hint: Think of '成' as 'achieving' something or 'becoming' successful.

Question: 高兴 --- gāo xìng --- kaʊ̯ ɕiŋ

Answer: happy | Example:我很高兴见到你。 | I am very happy to see you.

Hint: Think of 'Gao' (go) high with 'Xing' (excitement)!

Question: 他妈的 --- tā mā de --- tʰā mā də

Answer: Damn it | Example:他妈的，我忘了带钥匙。 | Damn it, I forgot to bring the keys.

Hint: Imagine your mom scolding you when you're frustrated.

Question: 穿 --- chuān --- tʂʰwán

Answer: to wear; to pierce | Example:他每天都穿不同的衣服。 | He wears different clothes every day.

Hint: Think of 'chuan' as 'chew on' clothes to wear them or pierce through them.

Question: 有点 --- yǒu diǎn --- joʊ˧˩ tja̠n˧˩˧

Answer: a little; somewhat | Example:我有点累。 | I am a little tired.

Hint: Think of 'yo' like 'yo, I'm a bit tired!'

Question: 干什么 --- gàn shénme --- ɡan ʂən.mə

Answer: What are you doing? | Example:你在干什么？ | What are you doing?

Hint: Imagine someone asking 'What are you doing?' while you are trying to 'gan' (get) something done.

Question: 么 --- me --- mə

Answer: what, how, why (used in questions) | Example:你在做什么？ | What are you doing?

Hint: Think of 'what' as a tiny question mark.

Question: 认识 --- rènshi --- ʐən.ʂɻ̩

Answer: to know; to recognize | Example:我很高兴认识你。 | I am very happy to know you.

Hint: Recognize a friend (rènshi sounds like 'recognize')

Question: 担心 --- dān xīn --- tanɕin

Answer: worry | Example:我很担心你的安全。 | I am very worried about your safety.

Hint: Think of 'Dan' being worried about his 'xin' (heart) health.

Question: 給 --- gěi --- keɪ˧˩˧

Answer: to give | Example:他給了我一本書。 | He gave me a book.

Hint: Think of 'give' as in 'gěi-ve'.

Question: 小姐 --- xiǎojiě --- ɕjɑʊ˧˩˧ tɕjɛ˥˩

Answer: Miss; young lady | Example:小姐，你需要帮助吗？ | Miss, do you need help?

Hint: Think of 'Miss Xiao' as a young lady.

Question: 棒 --- bàng --- pɑ̂ŋ

Answer: great; excellent | Example:你做得真棒！ | You did a great job!

Hint: 棒 sounds like 'bang!' which is often used to describe something impressive or great.

Question: 警察 --- jǐng chá --- tɕiŋ˨˩˦ ʈʂʰa˧˥

Answer: Police | Example:警察正在调查这个案件。 | The police are investigating this case.

Hint: Think of 'jing' like a siren sound and 'cha' like 'check'—police check things out.

Question: 号 --- hào --- xɑ̂ʊ

Answer: number; day of the month; size | Example:今天是几号？ | What is the date today?

Hint: Think of 'hào' as 'how many?' for numbers and dates.

Question: 正在 --- zhèngzài --- ʈʂə̂ŋ.tsâi

Answer: in the process of; currently | Example:我正在学习中文。 | I am currently studying Chinese.

Hint: Think of 'zài' as 'at' and 'zhèng' as 'right now'.

Question: 送 --- sòng --- sʊŋ

Answer: to deliver, to send, to give | Example:他送了一份礼物给我。 | He sent a gift to me.

Hint: Think of 'song' - sending a song to someone.

Question: 继续 --- jìxù --- tɕi⁵¹ ɕy⁵¹

Answer: to continue | Example:我们应该继续努力。 | We should continue to work hard.

Hint: Think of 'Ji' as 'gee, I will continue' and 'Xu' as 'shoo, I won't stop'.

Question: 家伙 --- jiāhuo --- tɕjɑ˥˥xwɔ˧˥

Answer: guy; fellow; tool | Example:那个家伙真有趣。 | That guy is really interesting.

Hint: Think of a 'guy' in your 'house' (家) using a 'tool'.

Question: 最后 --- zuìhòu --- t͡su̯eɪ̯⁵¹ xou̯⁵¹

Answer: last; final | Example:他是最后一个到达的人。 | He was the last person to arrive.

Hint: Think of 'last' as the 'ultimate' point, and 'zuì' sounds like 'ultimate'.

Question: 拉 --- lā --- lā

Answer: to pull | Example:他拉开了门。 | He pulled open the door.

Hint: Think of 'pulling' a 'la' sound out of a musical instrument.