Planning a trip to China? Or maybe you're moving there for work or study? Whatever the reason, you don’t need to master the whole language before you go. But you do need the right phrases—the kind locals actually use.
Textbooks are great for basics, but real-life China is fast, loud, and full of surprises. These survival Mandarin phrases will help you navigate like a pro, even if you're just getting started.
🚕 Getting Around
1. 请问，地铁站在哪儿？
Qǐng wèn, dìtiě zhàn zài nǎr?
Excuse me, where’s the subway station?
2. 我要去这个地方。
Wǒ yào qù zhège dìfang.
I want to go to this place.
→ Show the address or location on your phone—it works like magic.
3. 可以用微信/支付宝吗？
Kěyǐ yòng Wēixìn / Zhīfùbǎo ma?
Can I use WeChat/Alipay?
→ In China, cash is hardly used at all.
🍜 Ordering Food
4. 我可以点这个吗？
Wǒ kěyǐ diǎn zhège ma?
Can I order this?
5. 不要辣 / 少一点辣。
Bù yào là / Shǎo yīdiǎn là.
No spice / Less spicy, please.
6. 有没有菜单？
Yǒu méiyǒu càidān?
Do you have a menu?
→ Some spots only use QR code menus—scan and scroll.
🛍 Shopping & Paying
7. 太贵了，可以便宜一点吗？
Tài guì le, kěyǐ piányi yīdiǎn ma?
That’s too expensive. Can you make it cheaper?
→ Haggling is totally normal in markets. Give it a try!
8. 我用手机支付。
Wǒ yòng shǒujī zhīfù.
I’ll pay by phone.
9. 要袋子吗？
Yào dàizi ma?
Do you need a bag?
🧭 Everyday Situations
10. 不好意思，我听不懂。
Bù hǎoyìsi, wǒ tīng bù dǒng.
Sorry, I don’t understand.
11. 可以说慢一点吗？
Kěyǐ shuō màn yīdiǎn ma?
Can you speak a little slower?
12. 没关系。
Méi guānxi.
It’s okay / No problem.
→ One of the most useful, friendly phrases you’ll hear daily.
Want More?
If you're prepping for a trip or just want to feel more confident in daily situations, check out our Survival Mandarin course—designed for travelers and real-world use, not just textbook drills. You’ll walk away with practical skills, cultural know-how, and the confidence to handle just about anything China throws your way.
