Chinese for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide for Learning the Chinese Language Quickly

By Language Equipped Travelers

Chinese is the most commonly spoken living language. Don't miss out and start learning the language of the future!

Do you know why so many people have already started learning Chinese? Imagine being bilingual and able to communicate in Chinese. They don't say China is the future for nothing. With the technological breakthroughs and advancement, learning this common language will easily place you ahead and open the doors to many jobs and traveling opportunities. However, the best part is that you don't need to buy expensive coursebooks and attend group lessons. What if you could go from beginner to advanced, learn talking, and fully understand Chinese with the help of a single manual?

If you are here, you must have already tried and faced some challenges in reading or writing. If only there was a quick and easy way to learn Chinese. Students usually drop out because of the commitment and focus required when attending audio or full-time lessons. Unlike any other language, conversational Chinese has complex pronunciation making it more challenging but certainly not impossible to learn with the right edition of tools by your side.

Learn Chinese and become a fluent speaker in a month's time!

Indeed, this language in context by itself can be quite tricky when you are a Westerner who is used to the alphabet. It has unusual characters that may intimidate you at first, making you think you need a particular, expensive course that lasts forever to complete. But this is what the teaching industry wants you to believe. If you knew that you could learn to speak and write Mandarin with a vocabulary handbook at home, you wouldn't need their expensive services. You can do it fast and almost for free. Saving money AND learning a language?! Sign me up today!

This textbook with all its compounds was created by professional language instructors with years of experience. It is made both practical and fun, which is not the case with other books. With it, you master Chinese from the get-go.

"To learn a language is to have one more window from which you can look at the world."
- Chinese proverb

In this effective Chinese-English book, you get:
- An array of words and dialogues about daily life, work and study in Chinese society;
- Vocabulary dictionary based on the HSK guide for Chinese Words and each character for all levels;
- Visual and practical examples of the Chinese.

The language utility is organized from the easiest to the most challenging and most straightforward to the most complicated usage.

This volume is divided into four parts for your integrated learning:
- The first part introduces you to proper pronunciation in Mandarin by phonetic training. Here you learn the simplified basics of articles, nouns, pronouns, prepositions, and adjectives, as well as numbers, months, and days of the week.
- Part two teaches you grammar and sentence structures.
- The third part discovers the social situations like greetings and introductory phrases, managing your way in restaurants, and life at work or school/college.
- Part four helps you increase your vocabulary with more nouns and verbs.

With the right tools, learning Chinese is a breeze. You don't have to break the bank or spend months of your precious time to comprehend it.

Take the future into your hands by getting a copy of the only book you'll need on Mandarin, online today.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Language Equipped Travelers
• Release date: Mar 9, 2021
• ISBN: 9781393760313

Book preview

© Copyright 2020

All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing from the author. Reviewers may quote brief passages in reviews.

Disclaimer: No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical or electronic, including photocopying or recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, or transmitted by email without permission in writing from the publisher.

While all attempts have been made to verify the information provided in this publication, neither the author nor the publisher assumes any responsibility for errors, omissions or contrary interpretations of the subject matter herein.

This book is for entertainment purposes only. The views expressed are those of the author alone, and should not be taken as expert instruction or commands. The reader is responsible for his or her own actions.

Adherence to all applicable laws and regulations, including international, federal, state and local laws governing professional licensing, business practices, advertising and all other aspects of doing business in the US, Canada, UK or any other jurisdiction is the sole responsibility of the purchaser or reader.

Neither the author nor the publisher assumes any responsibility or liability whatsoever on the behalf of the purchaser or reader of these materials. Any perceived slight of any individual or organization is purely unintentional.

INTRODUCTION

The Chinese language (or group of related languages) is spoken by the Han, who constitute 94% of China’s population. One word for the language in Chinese is 汉语 (hàn yǔ). The Chinese language is divided into several major dialects (with many sub-dialects). Speakers of different dialects can in some cases find each other unintelligible, but are brought together by the fact that they share a common script.

Chinese for Beginners describes the primary and official dialect, which is known by many names: Mandarin, Modern Standard Chinese, or Putonghua (common speech). This is a practical textbook designed for foreigners who are interested in learning Chinese through self-study and help them effectively master basic Chinese communication skulls within a short period of time.

In the last 20 years, more and more people from different parts of the world have come to China. Everybody experiences their own story and is often shocked by the changes in this fast-growing country. For expats living in China, many want and need to learn Mandarin Chinese. However, due to work commitments during the day and family activities after hours, it is sometimes difficult find the time to attend full-time language classes.

As professional language instructors with years of experience in corporate Chinese training, we have found that most language learning textbooks are designed for full-time training over a long term. It has been very difficult to find a practical book to help people start communicating as soon as possible. Therefore, we made up our mind and  wrote the book Chinese for Beginners in 2020.

To make sure that the content is both practical and fun, we chose vocabulary based on the HSK Guideline for Chinese Words and Characters. We also used many words and dialogues that concern Chinese society as well as a foreigner’s daily life, study, and work in China. In terms of grammar, we made explicit and practical examples to help users apply these points in a flexible manner. Language points are arranged from easiest to hardest and simplest forms to most complicated. Explanations present material in a way which meets the needs of students and is easy to learn.

Focusing on conversation, Chinese for Beginners was designed for those who can only read the book several times a week. The full book can be finished in a month. In order to help different types of readers find what they want to improve through this book, we have divided the book into four parts:

Part one begins with proper pronunciation in Mandarin. Readers using this book will get thorough training in phonetics. We introduce, explain, and emphasize points that are typical in Chinese phonetics and particularly difficult for beginners to grasp. Readers will learn numbers, months, and days of the week. After  basic knowledge of articles, nouns, pronouns, prepositions, and adjectives is introduced.

Part two introduces basic Chinese grammar, including some special Chinese sentence structures which are very popular in daily oral Chinese. Since language is such an important aspect of Chinese culture, we also introduce elements of politeness to help learners to deal with common social situations.

Part three covers a wide range of typical situations in a students’ daily social life including Basic Greetings, Introducing Yourself, Buying and Ordering, At Work, At School/College, Travelling, Socializing, Formal Events, and other common encounters. The language used is natural, standard, and vivid. Attention has been given to introducing aspects of Chinese culture while maintaining a level suitable for beginners. In these ways, the basic material is covered thoroughly while things are kept interesting.

Finally, we have an appendix to introduce you more nouns and verbs. All words are written in characters and phonetic transcriptions in the pinyin system with their speech portions and English equivalents provided. In order to provide students with a more exact understanding of the meanings and the usages of words. Some words are also accompanied with explanations rather than just English equivalents. Nevertheless, students should not expect to learn the meaning and usage of word by depending only on the English translation, which will often hold true only for a particular context.

Chinese for Beginners is also a good choice for people who would like to take an

Reviews for Chinese for Beginners

[Wonderweiss Roslo · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This book contains some proven strategies to learn chinese in the fastest and easiest way. Officially recognized Chinese language is called Mandarin Chinese. It is the world's top language based on number of native speakers.

[Harvey Woods · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book is an Excellent source for learning useful Chinese. The choice of vocabulary seems pretty consistent with what I see in other beginning texts. So this book is good on an easier level but can also be used at a higher level if you want to go there, and make extra work for yourself! Enjoyable to use, I would recommend it.

[Enmar David · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

It is really great. I know some foreign languages and I am sure this book will help me to learn another new one.

[Scotty Voltaire · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book is very informative and continues to help me learn Chinese. The formatting is unintimidating, the writing style is easy to understand. This book is very help it is highly recommended!!

[Tolits Mendoza · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Brilliant book. I love the cultural advice, would love to ask the author if he could do a whole book on just that, it would be a very interesting read. Im teaching myself Chinese, beginner, and everyones different and like to learn differently but I prefer to use textbooks.

[Antoniette Luarez · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I recommend this book to those who wants to learn Chinese. It may come at handy, since it starts from the basics. It is also easy to follow because it instructs the reader step-by-step. The journey was fun, and I would like to learn more about the culture and language.

[Shiela Latag · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Love this book it has help me and my Chinese boyfriend to learn each language... I am a slow learner and I have two other books and I go to this book the most...

[Cathy Malubay · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Becoming familiar of another language can be easier of you have your language bible with you.
Learning the Chinese language is one of my goal this year. This book is a big help for a beginner like me.
I handle Chinese kids in my English class and there are some sounds/foreign words that I don't understand. Reading this book can me become more familiar with their language and will be able to identify some foreign words, if needed. I am now working with my tone and doing some exercises in the book.

[Hiel Bibliophile · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Best self-study guide/book for someone who wants to learn Mandarin! I am kind of particular of how I connect to a book: if it is easier to understand and suits my way of learning; and this book met my expectations. I’ve learned the basics of Nihongo before so learning a foreign language is not new to me. It’s fun and interesting to learn a new language again. What I like most in learning a language aside from the basic grammar and making conversations is the associated writing system. Although it was not included in this book but there were still examples written in Chinese characters and in Pinyin (I looked it up in the internet because I don’t think it is appropriate to use the term Romaji).

Also, the book doesn’t solely support you in studying the grammar it is also concise and keen on helping learners formulate or make conversation and dialogues on their own. Bonus part is it has a pattern for each conversation and question you want to compose making it a lot easier. Plus there’s a vocabulary section at the end of the book so it’s a thumbs up for me. Much love for this book!

Nǐhǎo! Wǒ jiào Eli. Hěn gāo xìng jiàn dào nǐ.

[Maria Clarissa Navarro · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book is great regarding in how you can learn to speak the Chinese language.Learning this common language will easily place you ahead and open the doors to many jobs and traveling opportunities.

[Revi James · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It's fascinating and easy to follow. It provides an overview of a variety of topics. The ideal intro for newcomers like me. However, I believe that attending a real class and using this book as a reference source is more advantageous. That, in my estimation, is the best way to use it.

[Julius Brigades · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book is an excellent resource to pair with Chinese lessons, study, etc. The specific order in which characters are presented is very helpful to differentiating and remembering those characters with similar components, but different pronunciations, tones, and meanings. I definitely recommend this particular publication for the study of Chinese characters.

[Ryan Intes Patigdas · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book helps a lot for those who wants to learn chinese language but no money to enroll themselves in learning school, through dedication and this book you can learn chinese right away. This book is what you are looking for.

[Jefferson Baniqued De Guzman · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Hopefully the author could make a version that would be more entertaining or attractive for younger students to keep their interest and/or foster love for learning the language. Overall, this is a good way to learn the language.

[Karl Angelo Gil · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It is really great. I know some foreign languages and I am sure this book will help me to learn another new on

[Dhoy Fuyo Ehsoy · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

What made this Chinese Language book easier to understand is the approach of the author on how to learn it. It started with the basics that will build our foundation of learning before it teaches you how to converse. This could be a big help to everyone who are planning to work or study in China or work in a mostly Chinese environments that is common nowadays. This was personally helpful to me as I deal with different Fil-Chi students everyday. Learning the basics is always a good thing.

[Shiks · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The Chinese language is divided into several major dialects. Speakers of different dialects can in some cases find each other unintelligible, but are brought together by the fact that they share a common script. However I found some writing issues about this book such as grammar, punctuation, conciseness, and word choices. Revise some words with the with active voice. Active voice makes it clear who is doing what. In an active sentence, the person that is acting is the subject. Passive sentences obscure or omit the sentence subject. Use passive voice when the sentence object is more important than the subject. The active voice is generally easier to read. Also you should use a simple word over a complex word. Simple words are easier to read and let your readers focus on your ideas. There's this word “long term” on the content of the book this should be like this “long-term” with hyphen in between. Nevertheless this book is useful to a lot of travelers and will need it when they go to China.

[Herlyn Martin · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is a great book. Chinese is never been an easy language for me, but a good thing this book helps a lot. The lessons are so precise and all. This book is written for true learning really. It's worth it, and I hope I will become more better in Chinese soon. A perfect reading material.

[Chasty Faith Delos Reyes · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

One must be so fortunate to take advantage and grasp upon learning a language that they could carry wherever they go.

As beginners, we all know that learning another language that is new and seems difficult for us requires a lot of efforts and note takings. Fortunately, several linguistic authors has teamed up together and has commenced to offer us a book that is best for learning Chinese language without sweating that much. All you have to do is to take a seat and be mindful of whatever you are about to learn. This book, contains a list of the most common phrases and words that are often used by Chinese speakers. In respect to that, we can conclude that it will be much easier for us to learn the fundamentals and how to use it. The good thing about this book is that except from providing Chinese words and their English translations, the authors also included the process and methods on how to write those in Pinyin. The authors also gave brief explanation about how is te words are pronounced, when they are most appropriate to be said, where should they be uttered, and to whom shall they be addressed.

Never miss the opportunity to learn another language, especially when you have the privilege to do so.

[Eduard Salvador · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The Chinese language might be confusing and can be complicated for a first time learner of the language. Luckily, this book discounts that experience because the topics written are easily understood and comprehensible for the general people. Taking languange lessons can be hefty so this book serves an alternative for people who wants to learn Chinese fast and effectively. I liked how the author explained each lesson thoroughly and concise. Personally, I wouldn't learn the language just for leisure but this book made me interested about the language. If you're a person looking for reading materials that can help you learn Mandarin or should I say Modern Chinese then this book is for you.

[Elliz · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Joining Chinese language trainings is a little bit
expensive but not on this book. This is the most convenient way to learn Chinese that comes in handy hence, you were also able to spend more time learning it on your own pace, unlike if you attend language trainings your time is only limited for the amount of learning you'll gain from it unless, you are willing to spend more money in order for you to master it completely. What's best in this book is that the details are clearly worded. Thus, each parts break down every structure of the language so, it's easy for beginners to learn in baby steps. I recommend this book to everyone who's eager to learn more than two languages according to their personal capacity. As multilingualism takes over in the modern world it is the right time to add another language in your knowledge and this is the right language for you to begin with.

[Marlon Devera Gumboc · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Who would have thought that you can learn chinese language for FREE? Like hello? Many people are spending money just to learn foreign languages. Lucky to found out this book which will teach you the chinese language. This book tackles about the chinese alphabet, phrases and sentences, and even the basic parts of speech. You dont need to go outside or pay someone to teach you, because this book will take good care of you. You can benefit from this book I swear!

[Lyra Jhoana Marapao · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

There are so many videos in youtube talking about chinese language. Among all of those, this is quiet different. It is very detailed cause the author showcases every information little-by-little. You can rely on this with your study since it taclkes about the parts of speech, phrases, types of sentences, and many more. This book will also help you in introducing yourself, as a beginner, using the chinese language. If you want to know more about chinese language, youre in good hand. This is really helpful!

[Claudine Barrientos · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I do have exchange friends from my university who are from Beijing and this might help me communicate easily with them. Thank you for referring me to this book. Salute to the Author for educating us.

[Joshua Montesino · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

As person who is an alien to the Chinese language I've learned a lot in this book, from the basic greetings to the proper introduction of your name. I feel like after learning such knowledge, I am no ready to go to China, meet every Chinese people there and introduce myself in their language, Ni hao, wo jiao Joshua. Learning languages is an important part of being very soft and friendly welcomed in different countries. Even only one language cans totally change the way of the communication, the attitude towards you and the impression which you will make in people with which you conduct a conversation.

For beginners like me, I really recommend this book.

[Noime Gecoso · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

For someone like me who loves reading some chinese novels but still using google translate/machine-translated app just to understand it, this is actually a great help for me. I'm totally engrossed in learning Chinese words and now I've found this book to be more easy to understand and to follow every words and instructions that was written over here. If you truly have the patience and eagerness to learn this language, I can say that this book is really for you. It also will teach you how to pronounce the word properly which is kind of hard for me, but if you will practice speaking it, then I think its good.

[Sara Jane del Rosario · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

When you are planning to visit China, this book will help you a lot especially in speaking their language. It will taught you how to construct and start a conversation. And guide you on your daily social life. I learned how to construct basic greetings in Mandarin like "Ni hao ma?" means How are you?
The author itself bring his/her readers in China for free using this book. So if you are planning to visit, study or start a business in China, this book is highly recommended for you.

Shi cong Philippines lai de.

[Anne Watson · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Ni hao, wo jiao Anne! Ni jiao, shenme ming zi? ( Hi! My name is Anne! What is your name? )

Foremost, I have never encountered a book about learning Chinese this easy.

As a person whom has been invested much on learning different cultures and traditions from different places around the world, learning their language has always been a part. Subtle to know that the land of the Sleeping Dragon, China, has now been awakening from it's deep slumber as if telling it's people to "go and seek the great perhaps," and that is what this book has taught me. Since I am a beginner, I got curious with this book and tested it out by reading some of the passages and how the author put their full effort in order to come up with different words that will provide the most comprehensible messages. I can say that the authors are indeed concerned regarding their readers because they chose the most practical lexicon to be provided in the book. This book is highly recommendable because I saw no trouble spots in it, instead I learned a lot and widened my perspective about the ancient system of Han yu and Pinyin writing that is now being modernized for a better and easier use. In this book, I personally did not encounter any type of further confusions because the words are subtly distinguishable. In fact, my most liked part is when the authors arranged the hardest and most complicated forms to present the simplest explanations. The descriptions are presented in fine, material way that meets the needs of every people, especially beginners, to learn easily. The book has nice contents, from the most practical greetings, to the most detailed formal addresses - the authors provided them all. This is a book of both culture and literature, because of the perfectly teaching of the use and misuse of grammar up to the proper way to say it. I am glad to give this book a five star rating because this equipped me and my knowledge regarding the basic Chinese Mandarin system of language. This book picked my interest. Nicely, intricately, written for young nurturing minds.

Xiexie ni men!

[Daisy Regala-Ando · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Learning different languages aside from our own through learning school is very hard, expensive and time consuming. That's why I'm so grateful to the author who wrote some books about this, it's very helpful and convenient. Good thing about this book is very easy to understand, you can learn chinese in no time just by the help of this book.