In this episode, we explore the hidden meanings of numbers in Chinese culture — and why certain numbers appear in love messages, memes, and even marketing campaigns. You’ll learn how 520 means “I love you,” 555 means crying, and how numerology influences communication in daily life and online. On the grammar side, we’ll focus on the measure word 次 (cì) — essential for talking about how many times something has happened or will happen. Whether you’re sharing how many times you’ve been to China or asking someone how often they visit a place, this episode gives you the tools to speak naturally and fluently. At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!

How to Compare in Chinese with 比 & 没有 | Is Hot Water Really a Healing Drink? | HSK 2 In this episode, we focus on two essential grammar structures for making comparisons in Chinese: 比 (bǐ) and 没有 (méiyǒu). You’ll learn how to say things like “This book is more interesting than that one” or “He’s not as tall as his brother” — all using simple, clear sentence patterns that native speakers use every day. Then, we explore a fascinating cultural question: Why do Chinese people drink hot water so often? Is it really considered healing? We dive into this everyday habit, its roots in traditional medicine, and how it’s still part of modern life across China. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to use 比 (bǐ) to say something is "more than". ✅ How to use 没有 (méiyǒu) to say something is "less than" or "not as..." ✅ Common sentence patterns for comparisons in daily life. ✅ Cultural insight: the belief in hot water as a healing remedy. ✅ Fun and practical examples to reinforce your learning At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!

In this episode, we explore the essential word 离 (lí) — your go-to expression for talking about distance, location, and travel time in Mandarin. Whether something is very far or just around the corner, this episode helps you use 离 naturally and correctly. We also dive into a cultural warning: why calling a woman 阿姨 (āyí) — often translated as “auntie” — might offend someone if she’s not actually your aunt. You’ll learn what to say instead, depending on age, context, and relationship. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to use 离 (lí) for distance and time expressions ✅ Sentence patterns like “A 离 B 很远 / 很近” ✅ Why 阿姨 can feel inappropriate — and better alternatives ✅ Everyday examples for confident speaking ✅ A breakdown of Chinese titles and politeness rules. Cultural Insight of the Week: In Chinese culture, 阿姨 (āyí) is age-coded. If a woman doesn’t see herself as “auntie age,” she might feel offended. Instead, use 女士 (nǚshì) in formal situations or 小姐 (xiǎojiě) in casual service contexts — but even 小姐 has limits, so use it carefully! At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!  

In this episode, we break down the versatile Chinese word 就 (jiù) and how it’s used to express “already,” “soon,” or “as early as.” You’ll learn how native speakers use 就 in daily conversations to sound natural and fluent — plus the cultural nuances behind it. We also explore Chinese gift-giving taboos — from why you should never give an umbrella or a clock, to what gifts bring good luck. Discover how these traditions are evolving in modern China, and how to avoid embarrassing mistakes when giving gifts to Chinese friends or colleagues. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to use 就 (jiù) to express “already,” “soon,” or “as early as” ✅ Cultural taboos in gift-giving and what NOT to give ✅ Practical sentence examples with 就 ✅ Fascinating insights into modern vs. traditional Chinese etiquette. At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!  

Unlock China’s Education Secrets | Master 得 in Chinese | HSK 2 Ever wondered how the Chinese education system works? In this episode, we explore the intense and fascinating world of China’s Gāokǎo exam (the National College Entrance Exam) and the cultural importance of education. Plus, we’ll teach you the grammar behind the structure 得 (de), which is used to describe how well you can do something or the extent to which something is done What You’ll Learn Today: ✔️ Grammar: How to use 得 (de) for describing how well you do something in Chinese. ✔️ Culture: The importance of Gāokǎo and the impact of China’s intense education culture on students’ lives. ✔️ Vocab: Key Chinese education terms like 学得 (xué de) and 考试 (kǎoshì) to talk about learning and exams. ✔️ Bonus: Why Chinese students face such pressure and how it shapes their future. At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!

Master 想, 要, 不想, 不要 | Expressing Desires & Career Choices in China In this episode, we explore four essential verbs in Chinese: 想 (xiǎng), 要 (yào), 不想 (bùxiǎng), and 不要 (bùyào). These structures are key to expressing what you want (or don’t want), your intentions, and even how to politely refuse something. You'll also discover the cultural reality behind career choices in China—where the Gaokao, family expectations, and social pressure often shape a student’s future more than personal dreams. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to express wants, intentions, and refusals using 想, 要, 不想, and 不要 ✅ The difference between 想 (soft desire) and 要 (strong intention) ✅ How family and society influence career paths in China ✅ Real-life examples to speak more naturally and fluently At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!

Master 已经...了 & 快...了 | The Art of Chinese Calligraphy & Grammar Tips In this episode, we explore two essential Chinese grammar structures: ✅ 已经...了 (yǐjīng...le) – to express completed actions ✅ 快...了 (kuài...le) – to talk about events happening soon Learn to use them naturally in daily conversations to sound fluent and confident. We also dive into the fascinating world of Chinese calligraphy (书法, shūfǎ) — not just beautiful writing, but an ancient art form that expresses personality, philosophy, and cultural depth. Discover why it’s so respected in Chinese society and how it continues to influence daily life. At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!

Master 真 (zhēn): Saying “Really” in Chinese + What Family Truly Means in Chinese Culture In this episode, we break down the powerful and expressive word 真 (zhēn) — used to mean “really,” “truly,” or to add emphasis in Mandarin. Learn how to sound more natural when showing admiration, confirming facts, or reacting with surprise. We also explore the central role of family in Chinese society, where concepts like filial piety (孝顺 xiàoshùn) and multi-generational households deeply influence everyday life, relationships, and decision-making. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ How to use 真 (zhēn) naturally in everyday speech ✅ Ways to express admiration, confirmation, or surprise ✅ Why family is a core value in Chinese culture ✅ Practical phrases to boost your Mandarin fluency At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!

In this episode, we explore the multiple uses of 再 (zài) — a small but powerful word that means “again”, helps link actions smoothly, and even appears in “goodbye” (再见 zàijiàn). You’ll learn how to use it naturally in real conversations and improve your fluency step by step. We also dive into the cultural heart of China with a deep look at 面子 (miànzi) — the concept of “face”. It’s more than just reputation: it shapes how people behave, interact, and show respect in social and business settings. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ All the common meanings and uses of 再 (zài) ✅ How to connect actions naturally (e.g. "eat first, then go for a walk") ✅ The role of 面子 in Chinese society and relationships ✅ Real-life sentence examples and tips for daily use ✅ Cultural insights to help you understand what giving or losing face really means At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!

In this episode, we break down the difference between 现在 (xiànzài) and 正在 (zhèngzài) — two key expressions used to talk about the present in Mandarin. You’ll learn when to use each one naturally, whether you’re describing a general situation or an action happening right now. We’ll also take you on a journey through the world of Chinese proverbs and idioms, showing how they express deep cultural values about time, action, and being present. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to correctly use 现在 and 正在 in daily conversations ✅ The difference between describing present time vs. ongoing actions ✅ Essential proverbs that emphasise living in the moment ✅ Real-life examples and practical tips for fluent, natural Mandarin ✅ Cultural insights into how Chinese philosophy views time and presence At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!

How to Sound Friendly in Chinese with Verb Duplication (看看, 听听, 试试) + Explore the Magic of Night Markets In this episode, we explore how verb duplication in Chinese — like 看看 (kànkan), 听听 (tīngting), and 试试 (shìshi) — can make your speech sound softer, more casual, and more polite. Whether you're inviting someone, making a suggestion, or trying something out, these forms help you sound natural and friendly in everyday conversations. We’ll also take you into the heart of Chinese night markets (夜市 yèshì) — vibrant spaces full of sizzling street food, lights, noise, and local life. It’s where language, food, and culture come together. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ How to use verb duplication to soften your tone ✅ The subtle differences between 看看, 听听, and 试试 ✅ Practical example sentences you can start using today ✅ What to expect at a Chinese night market — and what to eat first! ✅ Cultural insights on why food and friendliness go hand in hand in China. At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!

One of the most misunderstood expressions in Chinese culture: 有空 (yǒu kòng) literally means “I’m free”… but it can actually mean “I’m not interested.” If your Chinese friend ever said “We’ll chat when I’m free” and never followed up, this episode is for you! In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ How to use 吧 (ba) to make polite suggestions and confirmations ✅ The different tones and meanings of 吧 depending on context ✅ When 有空 doesn’t really mean someone has free time… ✅ Real-life phrases you can use right away ✅ Cultural insights on indirect communication in Chinese culture. At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!

Learn 一起 vs. 在一起 + What Western Creators Get Wrong on Xiaohongshu! In this episode, we break down the difference between 一起 (yīqǐ) and 在一起 (zài yīqǐ) — two expressions that both mean “together,” but are not interchangeable. You’ll learn how to say things like “Let’s study together” vs. “We are living together” with clear grammar tips and everyday examples. Plus: What’s the deal with “TikTok Refugees” and why do so many fail on 小红书 (Xiaohongshu)? We explore what Western creators often get wrong on China’s favourite lifestyle app — and how to avoid major cultural mistakes. What You’ll Learn Today: ✅ When to use 一起 vs. 在一起 (with real-life examples) ✅ How to say “Let’s do it together!” in Chinese ✅ Mini dialogues using HSK2 vocabulary ✅ What makes Xiaohongshu different from TikTok ✅ Tips for creators on Chinese social platforms (what not to do!) At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!

Learn to Express Cause and Effect in Chinese + Fun Internet Memes! In today’s episode, we teach you how to express cause and effect naturally in Mandarin using the super useful structure 因为…所以 (yīnwèi… suǒyǐ). You’ll learn how to build simple, real-life sentences like “Because I’m tired, I didn’t go to the park.” Plus, we dive into two hilarious Chinese internet memes: why people say they’re “eating dirt” when broke (吃土 chītǔ) and why Mondays are meme central with “不想上班” ("don’t want to go to work"). If you love real-life language, culture, and laughs, you’ll love this episode! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to ask “Why?” questions with 为什么 (wèishéme). ✅ How to express cause and effect with 因为…所以 (yīnwèi… suǒyǐ). ✅ Key new vocabulary like 表情包 (meme/sticker), 搞笑 (funny), and 吃土 (to be broke). ✅ Fun cultural insights: viral Chinese memes and internet slang! ✅ Practical examples you can use immediately. At Hanyu Chinese School, we take pride in offering a unique approach to language learning. What makes our school special? Here are some highlights: Online Campus: The best virtual campus. Access study materials, interactive exercises, and additional resources from anywhere, anytime. Private Teachers: Our highly trained teachers provide personalized classes with an individual approach. Trial Classes: Not sure if this language is for you? Try our trial classes! Immerse yourself in the language and discover if it’s the right choice for you. Hanyu Blog: Every week, we publish informative and entertaining articles to help you improve your understanding of the language and culture. Learn more languages with Trainlang! Visit our websites and start your language journey today!