Takeaway Chinese

If you had one week to travel anywhere in China, where would you go – and how would you plan it? In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're talking about dream trips, travel styles, and how to plan the perfect getaway – all while learning useful Chinese expressions you can use along the way! On the show: Fei Fei & Steve. (00:40) Useful vocabulary related to traveling. (05:43) A high-intensity, ultra-efficient style of travel: "special forces-style traveling."

September 10 marks Teachers' Day in China. In this episode, we take a closer look at the traditional role of teachers in Chinese history, explore how the word "师父 (shī fu, master)" reflects the traditional idea of a teacher as a father figure, and look at how family terms are still commonly used to address people outside the family in Chinese society today. On the show: Fei Fei & Steve. (00:59) How teachers were addressed in the past and today. (10:00) How do Chinese people address each other?

Can you believe summer is almost over? For students across China, that means one thing: it's back-to-school time! September 1 is traditionally the big day when students return to classrooms for a brand-new school year. So, how do students in China usually prepare for the new school year? Tune in and find out! On the show: Fei Fei & Steve (01:28) Useful Chinese words for school supplies (08:09) 包书皮 (bāo shū pí) – wrapping book covers, a classic back-to-school ritual in China!

The second World Humanoid Robot Games is underway! In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we explore some of the exciting ways robots are being used in everyday life and learn some essential Chinese vocabulary related to robotics. Join Fei Fei and Steve for a fun and practical language lesson! (02:55) Essential Chinese words related to robots. (10:44) If you had a robot, what job would you want it to do for you?

Love is universal — but the way we express it can be very different. With Chinese Valentine's Day, Qixi Festival, just around the corner, this episode of Takeaway Chinese takes you into the language and culture of love in China. Tune in now! (07:00) Learn Chinese expressions related to love. (14:30) Why would you want to avoid "scatter dog food"? What does it actually mean?

Some trips give you great photos. Others teach you a lifelong skill. Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 进修式旅行 (jìn xiū shì lǚ xíng). Across China, more travelers are choosing trips built around learning – from making pottery to trying traditional crafts and meeting local artisans. It's called 进修式旅行, or learning-focused travel. Why is this way of traveling becoming so popular? Let's dive in. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

What if your next trip to China could take you beyond the usual tourist attractions? From watching a jaw-dropping face-changing performance and mastering traditional acrobatics in Wuqiao County — China's intangible cultural heritage is becoming an experience you can actually take part in! On the show: Fei Fei & Steve. (02:30) The magic of face-changing. (09:28) Discover Chinese acrobatics. (18:33) Enjoy Qinhuai Lantern Festival.

Pickleball, paddle boarding, frisbee, rock climbing... China's sports scene is evolving fast! In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're exploring the exciting world of trendy and emerging sports in China. Along the way, you'll learn practical Chinese words and expressions related to fitness, competition, and staying active! (00:35) Essential sports vocabulary. (13:46) Exploring China's popular water sports.

What if the best feeling wasn't buying more... but owing nothing? Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 零负债青年 (líng fù zhài qīng nián). A growing number of young people in China are choosing a different lifestyle: 零负债青年 (líng fù zhài qīng nián) – "zero-debt youth." They choose to spend only what they have and avoid unnecessary financial and emotional burdens. Could this be a healthier way to live? Let's dive in. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

Imagine a city dedicated to the pursuit of one art: porcelain. That is Jingdezhen. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we introduce you to the history and legacy of Jingdezhen and Chinese porcelain, as well as today's story of the city. Tune in now and discover why this small city remains the heart of the ceramic world. (02:50) Essential vocabulary related to porcelain. (07:38) The history of Jingdezhen.

Many parts of the world are currently experiencing record heatwaves. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, let's learn how to describe the scorching sun in Mandarin and talk about fun ways to help you cool down. On the show: Fei Fei & Steve. (01:57) Essential vocabulary related to summer heat. (12:24) How do you avoid the scorching sun?

When was the last time you gave your brain a mental cleanse? Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 用脑卫生 (yòng nǎo wèi shēng). It is the latest wellness trend taking off among young people in China – keeping your mind from feeling constantly overwhelmed. So what exactly is making our heads feel so crowded? Let's dive in. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

What does the ideal home look like to you? In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we explore how different countries define a "good house" through the lenses of climate, lifestyle, culture, and technology. And here in China - what does the concept of 好房子 (hǎo fángzi, good house) really mean in today's rapidly evolving urban landscape? Tune in now to find out! (03:02) Climate shapes architecture. (16:26) My dream house. (26:08) Chinese perspectives on the ideal home.

Some of China's fastest-growing jobs didn't even exist a few years ago. With job-hunting season in full swing, we're taking a look at the country's newest professions, what they do, and the Chinese expressions every job seeker should know. (04:28) Job-hunting vocabulary. (08:43) New professions in China.

On the Mic Today: 显化 (xiǎn huà) – Manifesting Ever noticed how people talk like their future has already happened? On the Chinese internet, there's a word for this: 显化 (xiǎn huà) – the idea of turning your thoughts into reality. But here's the interesting part: when people practice "manifesting," something very real may actually be happening beneath the surface. So why does this "delulu with confidence" mindset sometimes seem to work? Let's dive in. This is the "The China Code," where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. We'd love to hear your thoughts! Have you ever successfully "manifested" something? Contact the team with your feedback or drop your suggestions for the buzzwords we should decode next! CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

Did you know China is home to 56 ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions? Tune in to learn why the pomegranate is a symbol of ethnic unity in China and discover the vibrant festivals celebrated by the country's ethnic groups. (09:30) Experience the excitement of the Mongolian Naadam Festival, featuring wrestling, horse racing, and archery. (17:00) Discover the colorful celebrations of the Miao New Year.

Have you watched any Chinese animation before? We'd love to know your favorite! And if you haven't yet, now's the perfect time to start. Join us as we learn useful Chinese vocabulary while exploring the exciting world of Chinese animation! (04:17) What is 妖怪 (yāo guài) in Chinese animations? (19:13) China International Cartoon & Animation Festival: the biggest animation event in the country!

Today's phrase: 人类丰容 (rén lèi fēng róng) To keep animals engaged and make life more interesting for them, zookeepers often provide what's called "enrichment"—activities or environments that add variety to their daily routines. But what about humans? On the Chinese internet, there's a trending term called 人类丰容 (rén lèi fēng róng) – "human enrichment." It's all about adding small moments of novelty to break up the routine of everyday life. So why this idea is resonating with so many people? Let's dive in. Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

Movies can be a fun and engaging way to learn about a country. Through Chinese movies, you can discover the language, culture, and stories that shape life in China. In this episode, we'll explore Chinese movies that have won fans around the world and learn practical Chinese expressions related to movies and cinema. We'll also take a brief look at China's vibrant film culture and how film festivals bring filmmakers and audiences together. (02:51) Why Chinese movies are loved by global audiences? (15:50) China's film culture and essential movie-related Chinese expressions.

This year, China's national college entrance examination is underway. It marks a major milestone, as students begin to decide on different career paths and areas of specialization. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we explore the professions people pursue today — and take a look back at the imperial examination system in ancient China. On the show: Niuniu & Steve. (08:43) What were the imperial exams like in ancient China? (16:58) Education systems in China today.

Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 邪修 (xié xiū). Have you ever seen someone solve a problem in a way that looks completely wrong… but somehow works perfectly? In China, young people call this 邪修 (xié xiū) – unconventional shortcuts that break the "normal rules" but still get the job done. So why are people so obsessed with these strange little life hacks? Let's dive in. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

What stories do you remember from your childhood? Maybe they were magical fairy tales, comforting bedtime stories, or folk tales that someone in your family told you over and over until you knew them by heart. No matter where we grow up, stories are often one of the first ways we learn about courage, kindness, honesty, and imagination. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we explore two beloved tales that generations of Chinese children have grown up with. On the show: Fei Fei & Steve. (07:26) The story of Ne Zha. (15:44) The story of Mulan.

In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve continue to discuss some of the most common hobbies shared by young people in China. From improv comedy and mystery role-playing party games, to playing with colorful plastic beads, tune in and discover these fun new trends with us! (04:25) Niuniu and Steve had their first improv show? (15:51) What is an "输出型爱好" (output-based hobby)?

Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 祛魅 （qū mèi） – stripping away the "filter" and seeing the truth underneath. Have you ever finally gotten something you deeply wanted – only to realize it felt… more ordinary than you imagined? In China, more and more young people are using the word 祛魅 to describe that moment when the filter comes off and reality comes into focus. Let's talk about why people are "demystifying" the modern dream, and what happens when we stop chasing the fantasy and start seeing things as they really are. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

What's your favorite hobby – music, travel, or something else? In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, you'll discover some of the trendiest hobbies among young people in China right now! Join us to learn useful expressions, fun cultural insights, and everyday vocabulary! On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (02:22) Describe your hobbies in Chinese. (12:36) What are some trending hobbies in China?

In Chinese, intelligence isn't just about IQ. Someone can be 聪明 (smart), 机灵 (clever), 精明 (shrewd), or even 大智若愚 (great wisdom under the guise of folly) — and each word reveals a different way Chinese speakers think about wisdom, personality, and social behavior. In our new episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're exploring how Chinese speakers describe smart, clever, silly, goofy, and everything in between. (02:08) Different ways to say "smart" in Chinese (11:24) Calling your partner "dumb" in Chinese can actually sound romantic?

Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 活人感 (huó rén gǎn) – the feeling of a living human or the sense of a real person. Have you ever looked at a flawless post – and felt… nothing? 活人感 is the opposite of that feeling. It's the sense that there's a real, living person behind the screen – the kind of raw, unfiltered presence that makes you pause and think: this feels real. In a world of curated content and AI-generated interactions, why does this feeling matter so much – and why are people starting to seek it out? Let's explore what "real" really means – and why it's becoming more valuable than ever. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

Chinese is evolving fast – and so is the slang! From viral catchphrases to internet buzzwords, we're breaking down the trendiest expressions people are using right now. Sound more natural, more local, and way more in the know. Tune in to Takeaway Chinese and upgrade your Chinese today! (07:40) 开团秒跟 - Someone takes the lead, others immediately copy or join. (15:50) 活人感 - A sense of being a real, living person.

In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve explore what safety means in China – from ancient philosophies about an ideal society to real-life travel experiences today. Join us as we take a closer look at how safe it feels in China, especially during nighttime. (06:54) What did a "safe society" look like in ancient China? (12:57) How safe is it to be out at night in China today?

Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 学术底刊 (xué shù dǐ kān) – bottom-tier academic journals. Now, you won't find these journals in any library. It's a viral trend that turns academic writing into something unexpectedly funny. Think of it as the perfect blend of serious academic language mixed with completely nonsensical topics – like asking, "Should Optimus Prime buy car insurance... or personal accident insurance?" It's hilarious, but behind the humor lies a deeper story about how a new generation of researchers is coping with pressure and failure. Let's dive in for more. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

Is learning a language still worth it when AI can translate in real-time? In this UN Chinese Language Day special of Takeaway Chinese, we asked Chinese language learners across the globe: Do you use AI to learn Chinese? Will you keep learning Chinese as AI advances? What we found might surprise you! Tune in now. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve.  (05:20) How are Chinese language learners across the globe using AI right now to help them learn the language?  (09:30) What do Chinese language learners hope AI will be able to do for them in the future?

Ever tried arguing in Chinese… and suddenly didn't know how to sound right? In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve walk you through various real-life arguing scenarios — from workplace disagreements to couple banter, to those moments when you really need to stand your ground… tune in now, and pick up useful expressions. (02:27) How do you handle arguments in different real-life situations in Chinese? (08:25) "随便," often translated as "whatever," is one of the most versatile and nuanced words in Chinese.

Welcome to our new segment "The China Code", where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 开团秒跟 (kāi tuán miǎo gēn). It started in gaming, but now it's everywhere – from group chats to spontaneous real-life moments with total strangers. So how did a gaming term turn into a real-life vibe – and why do people love it so much? Let's take a closer look. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

Ever feel like your emotions are speaking louder than your words? In our latest episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're diving into something we all experience, but don't always know how to express: negative emotions. From stress and frustration to disappointment and burnout, how do you talk about these feelings in Chinese? And more importantly, how do you respond to them? On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (01:01) How to talk about negative feelings in Chinese? (11:37) How do you respond to a panic attack?

Ever wondered how many ways Chinese has to say "room"? From 室, 厅, 间, 房, 屋… each word opens a different door into how space is understood in Chinese. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve discuss these subtle differences. Tune in and pick up some handy expressions! (01:10) There're so many words in Chinese that can describe a room: 室, 厅, 间, 房, 屋… (08:55) In traditional Chinese society (especially in ancient times), the term for the legal wife (distinguished from concubines) was linked to the house: 正室

Spring is in the air, and so are the blossoms! In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we invite you to slow down and step into the timeless tradition of flower appreciation. Admiring flowers isn't just about beauty; it's a way of feeling the season and connecting with nature! On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (05:21) Learn useful Chinese expressions about flowers. (15:06) Flowers are made into delicious food too!

In a world where we're constantly buying and consuming, how can you protect your rights as a consumer? And if something goes wrong, how do you file a complaint in China? Join Niuniu and Steve as they explore what rights consumers have in China while teaching useful Chinese expressions and practical tips to help you navigate everyday consumption. (07:01) What rights do consumers have? Learn key terms and phrases in Chinese. (13:51) The March 15 Gala—a major televised event that exposes corporate malpractice and defends consumer rights.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Some people love this question because it gives them a chance to talk about their goals and ambitions. Others absolutely hate it. After all, not everyone likes planning that far ahead — and life doesn't always go according to plan. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve talk about useful and practical Chinese when talking about goals, schedules, and future plans. Tune in now! (04:38) Different ways to say "plan" in Chinese. (15:33) Do you make plans every day?

Do you believe in luck? In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, Niuniu and Steve talk about how Chinese people talk about luck – from good luck in love and life's unexpected twists. Tune in and pick up handy phrases to use in everyday conversations! (09:05) A fish that symbolizes good luck in Chinese culture. (17:25) Feeling lucky in love? Learn how to say it in Chinese!

Horses have inspired some of the most fascinating idioms and historical tales. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we explore three legendary horse stories that continue to shape the way people talk about wisdom, strategy, and recognizing true potential. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (03:20) The story of Bo Le discerning a noble steed. (14:30) The story searching for a fine horse according to a picture - and why it failed. (19:23) Tian Ji's horse racing: How to lose one race and win the game.

Celebrate the most meaningful night of the year in Chinese culture with Takeaway Chinese! In this episode, we explore key Chinese New Year customs and expressions — from reunion dinners and red envelopes to visiting relatives and shopping for festive goods... On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (06:15) The most important dinner of the year (15:10) Must-know Chinese New Year customs

The Year of the Horse is almost here! In this episode, we provide you with useful horse-related cultural insights and expressions in Chinese. Tune in now and learn how "horse" can symbolize talent, success, and achievement. On the show: Niu Honglin & Steve. (08:51) How can "horse" be used metaphorically to describe someone with great talent? (11:45) 汗马功劳: Great contributions and hard-earned achievements.