Structure: 向 + Noun + Verb Meaning: When used as a preposition, “向” indicates an action that is performed towards a reference point, but doesn’t have any actual motion towards that point. An example Read More

为了 as a preposition Structure: 为了 + [ some purpose ], Subject + Predicate Meaning: When 为了 indicates the purpose of an action, it’s usually acting as a preposition. In this role, the whole Read More

Sentence-Final Structure Statement + 嘛 Meaning: The particle 嘛 (ma) is a sentence-final particle identical in pronunciation to the simple “yes/no question” particle 吗 (ma) you learned back in the day, but with a Read More

Structure : 为 + [ some part ] + v Meaning: When you work for a company, or do other sorts of physical (and even mental) activities for another party, you’re likely to use Read More

Meaning: 护短 (hù duǎn) to shield faults or shortcomings Usage: “为自己或者与自己有关系的人所犯的错误进行辩护或掩饰。 It means to shield faults for oneself or other people who have relation with oneself. Examples: 1. 你一直对孩子这样护短，他永远都不会意识到自己的错误。     Nǐ yìzhíduì háizi zhèyàng hùduǎn, Read More

Meaning: 靠谱 (kào pǔ) trustworthy Usage: “靠谱”是指可靠、值得相信或符合实际。我们常常会说某人“办事靠谱”，意思是他办事情让人放心。有时也会说“这件事情靠谱”，意思是这件事的可行性很高或者这件事是真的。 “靠谱(kào pǔ)” means someone or something is practical and trustworthy.When Chinese people describe someone as “办事靠谱”, they mean the person can be trusted with certain things. Sometimes, Read More

Structure with 就 meaning “only have” Subject + 就 + ( 只 ) + Verb Meaning: 就 can mean “only, or only have”. When using it you can add 只 and 只有, or you Read More

Meaning: south Origin: “南”原来是乐器名和乐舞名。从字形上看像一种钟形乐器，上端有纽可以悬挂。后来多表示南方的“南”。 “南” was originally the name of an instrument and dance. The character itself resembles a bell-shaped instrument that could be hung by a button in the top. Later, it became Read More

Meaning: In English, words like “uhm” and “er” are used as filler words when you’re thinking about what to say. In Chinese, “那个”(nèige) is used for this purpose. This can sound a bit unfortunate Read More

Structure: Possibility 1 + 或者 + Possibility 2 Meaning: Whilst “还是” is used for “or” in questions, “或者” is used for “or” in statements. Examples:     晚上 的 时候，我 一般 喜欢 喝 啤酒 或者 Read More