The phrase 万事如意 wànshì rúyì is one of those usually printed on 红包 (hóngbāo) or red envelopes. It means “everything goes well,” as an optimistic message that everyone receives during the Spring Festival.
This goes to show that our Mandarin can also “go well” — or even better than well! It’s not too late to step up our Mandarin game (yes, including me, because I’m also self-studying the language too).
Even if we’re in the middle of the Lunar New Year, we can still greet others with messages of goodwill like 万事如意 and 出入平安 (chūrù píng’ān) (safe trip wherever you go). We’ve made a list of places you can learn more of these messages to spread your good wishes.
But if you’re still struggling with basic Mandarin expressions, fret not as we have a starter guide for Chinese language learners. And remember, make use of your smartphone! After all, if you want a supplement for those Chinese language classes, it’s essential you have learning resources on your devices.
- Improve your Putonghua with these 11 digital tools and 8 learning resources…
- Or access this WeChat account to learn Chinese!
But what will be the use of those links if you don’t try speaking to locals? Go out and travel! But if you have that “I don’t know how to talk to cabbies” feeling, we’ve got your back with these essentials for subway and taxi/Didi rides!
If last minute excursions are not your thing, why not take your language practice to restaurants and bars that are still open? We also have a guide which you and your children can use to make your orders swift and easy!
Remember, speaking is just one part of learning a language. You also need to familiarize yourself with Chinese characters so you can read and type in pinyin… especially if you like to shop online on Taobao! If you’re confident enough, why not see how your Mandarin proficiency measures up with these tests? After all, even if Chinese is difficult to learn, knowing and being fluent in and of itself is just as rewarding on both a personal and professional level.
Just remember, 万事如意 (wànshì rúyì) — everything goes well — so can your Mandarin!
Good luck and 新年快乐 (xīnnián kuàilè)!
More stories by this author here.
Email: andypenafuerte@beijing-kids.com
Instagram: @coolkidandy
