(本播客的简介有简体中文和英文。您可以在下方找到英文版本。 This podcast description is available in both Simplified Chinese and English. You can find the English version below.)

(中文简介)
大家好，欢迎收听新一期的《5分钟中文》。在这期节目中，我想继续分享关于通过看电视剧学习中文的想法。上期节目我提到，电视剧中的对话对语言水平要求很高，尤其是对初学者来说，可能会感到有些挑战。今天，我补充了几点建议：首先，选择带有中文字幕的剧集可以帮助理解和练习发音；其次，利用字幕做听写练习也是提高中文的好方法。此外，学习时不必追求完美，可以适当提高进度，以便接触更多的语言现象，提升学习效果。希望这些建议能对大家有所帮助。

(English Description)
Hello everyone, welcome to the latest episode of "5-Minute Chinese." In this episode, I continue to share my thoughts on learning Chinese through watching TV dramas. Last time, I mentioned that the language in dramas can be quite advanced and challenging, especially for beginners. Today, I’m adding a few more tips: First, choosing shows with Chinese subtitles can help with understanding and practicing pronunciation; second, using subtitles for dictation exercises is a great way to improve your Chinese. Additionally, there’s no need to aim for perfection—progressing through lessons at a faster yet comfortable pace allows you to encounter and reinforce more language features. I hope these suggestions are helpful to you.

由于篇幅限制，我无法在此处附上完整文稿。但是，如果您需要文稿，请随时给我发电子邮件，我很高兴把稿子发给您！
Due to space limitations, I am unable to include the full transcript here. However, if you need the transcript, please feel free to email me at thelonemandarinteacher@outlook.com, and I’ll be happy to send it to you!

把你的问题和建议发给我！

Support the show

It's truly an honor that my podcast can provide help and value to you. Your support and engagement mean the world to me. If you like 5 Minute Chinese, please help me by subscribing, liking, and sharing the show so that it can help more people. Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, you can email me at TheLoneMandarinTeacher@outlook.com.

(本播客的简介有简体中文和英文。您可以在下方找到英文版本。 This podcast description is available in both Simplified Chinese and English. You can find the English version below.)

大家好！欢迎收看新一期的《五分钟中文》。在本期节目中，我将讨论通过看电视节目学习语言的利弊。虽然它通常被视为一种有趣且快速的学习方式，但它可能并不适合所有人，尤其是初学者。我介绍了“comprehensive input可理解输入”的概念，它指的是大部分可以理解但有一些新元素的语言材料。我分享了我看日本电视剧（名为《地面师たち》）的个人经历，并解释了为什么由于我目前的熟练程度，它没有显著提高我的日语水平。我还建议专注于与您的语言水平相匹配的听力材料，以使“磨耳朵”（听力训练）更有效。此外，我还谈到了 Maayot，这是一个通过适合水平的内容学习中文的有用网站。最后我谈到我制作这个播客的初衷就是提供简单而自然的语言输入，帮助学习者有效地练习。如果您觉得《五分钟中文》有用，请订阅、分享和支持这个播客！如果您想支持本播客，下方也有链接。感谢您的收听！祝您有美好的一天！

Maayot 是一个很棒的中文学习网站，提供带拼音的每日阅读、英文翻译、录音的专业反馈和阅读理解问题。它是提高中文学习的超棒的资源。这是Maayot的网站 https://www.maayot.com/。请去试试看，相信你会喜欢的！

Hello everyone! Welcome to a new episode of “Five Minute Chinese.” In this episode, I discuss the pros and cons of learning languages by watching TV shows. While it's often seen as a fun and fast way to learn, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially beginners. I introduce the concept of 'comprehensive input,' which refers to language materials that are mostly understandable with some new elements. I share my personal experience of watching a Japanese drama (called 地面師たち or Tokyo Swindlers) and explain why it didn't significantly improve my Japanese due to my current proficiency level. I also recommend focusing on listening materials that match your language level to make '磨耳朵' (ear training) more effective. Additionally, I talk about Maayot, a useful website for learning Chinese through level-appropriate content. My goal with this podcast is to provide simple yet natural language input to help learners practice effectively. If you find 5-Minute Chinese helpful, please subscribe, share, and support the show. You can find the support show link below. Thank you. Have a great day!

Maayot is a wonderful Chinese learning website that offers daily readings with pinyin, English translations, professional feedback on your recordings, and reading comprehension questions. It’s a fantastic resource for enhancing your Mandarin Chinese learning. Check it out here: https://www.maayot.com/. You'll enjoy it!


由于篇幅限制，我无法在此处附上完整文稿。但是，如果您需要文稿，请随时给我发电子邮件，我很高兴把稿子发给您！
Due to space limitations, I am unable to include the full transcript here. However, if you need the transcript, please feel free to email me at thelonemandarinteacher@outlook.com, and I’ll be happy to send it to you!

把你的问题和建议发给我！

Support the show

It's truly an honor that my podcast can provide help and value to you. Your support and engagement mean the world to me. If you like 5 Minute Chinese, please help me by subscribing, liking, and sharing the show so that it can help more people. Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, you can email me at TheLoneMandarinTeacher@outlook.com.

(If you notice the texting link above, it seems that my hosting site Buzzsprout is testing a new feature without creators enabling it: Buzzsprout's latest feature delivers listener love straight to your phone — Fan Mail! We dive into how we've been secretly testing this new tool and how you can turn it on for your own podcast. I don't know how it will work otu)

Hello everyone! Welcome to another episode of "5 Minute Chinese." Today, I'm sharing a recent health condition.  A few days ago, I noticed some discomfort and pain in my ear. Given my history of outer ear infection last year, I feared it might be a recurrence. Visiting the doctor after class on Tuesday, I learned that this time, the infection was inside the ear, requiring oral antibiotics instead of just ear drops. The doctor suggested it might be due to allergies, causing mucus buildup in my nasal cavity, leading to ear inflammation. Grateful for seeking timely medical attention this time, unlike last year when I endured severe pain before seeking help, I am confident that with proper medication, my condition will improve soon. Lastly I stress the importance of managing allergies to prevent such complications. Remember, taking care of yourself is essential!

Due to space constraints, I'm unable to include the transcript here. However, if you'd like a copy, please feel free to email me, and I'll happily send it your way. Additionally, if you have any questions or comments, don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you all a fantastic day!

把你的问题和建议发给我！

Support the show

It's truly an honor that my podcast can provide help and value to you. Your support and engagement mean the world to me. If you like 5 Minute Chinese, please help me by subscribing, liking, and sharing the show so that it can help more people. Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, you can email me at TheLoneMandarinTeacher@outlook.com.

Hello everyone! In today's Mandarin episode, I talk about my past 3-day weekend due to a late-coming "snow day." See script and useful expressions below.

大家好！欢迎收听。今天想跟大家聊聊我刚刚过去的长周末。一说长周末，你马上就想：为什么你会有长周末呢？最近也没有什么节假日啊？我上周末多了一天，是因为我们星期五放雪假停课了。雪假就是Snow Day。是应该下雪才有的假。当时，天气预报说上星期五可能会下冻雨和雪。气温也会在零下。这样的话，下的雨雪就会在道路上和电线上结冰，造成交通安全问题，也有可能会造成一些地方停电。所以为了安全起见，学校决定星期五放假。但是其实我们星期五没有下雪。只是下了雨，白天的最低气温也在零上。直到星期五半夜才下，星期六我起来的时候发现地上有雪。

周末多一天好像不多，但是其实给人感觉很不一样。我觉得平时两天的周末就过得很快，什么都没干就又到周一了。但是如果多一天，变成三天，周末就感觉多了不止一天。这个周末我做了很多事：我看了一本新书，玩了手（机）游（戏），做了好吃的饭菜，跟朋友和父母聊天，还（准）备了课，还睡了美美的懒觉。真的是一个很舒服的周末。多出来的一天让我感觉有更充裕的时间做很多自己喜欢的事情。又不觉得很“赶”。这个长周末虽然外面阴雨天，天气很冷，但是我提前在周三去了超市，囤了吃的东西，所以就一直在家不出门也没关系。

通过这次，我感觉我可以理解“四天工作日”的提议了。多一天真的给人很不一样的感觉。休息好了，有更多的自由时间，我们在工作日学习和工作的时候也可以更有效率。

你们那儿下雪的时候会放雪假吗？要下多大的雪才会放假呢？我们在南方，所以一点儿雪就会放假。但是在北方，大家可能觉得没关系。可以正常上学，正常去工作。

好了。今天就跟大家聊到这里。希望你有美好的一天。再见。

1.  | 节假日 | Jiéjiàrì: holidays & vacations
2.  | 雪假 | xuě jiǎ: snow day
3.  | 停课 | tíngkè: cancel classes
4.  | 冻雨 | dòngyǔ: freezing rain
5.  | 气温零下 | qìwēn língxià: temperature below zero
6.  | 道路 | dàolù: road
7.  | 造成 | zàochéng: cause
8.  | 交通安全 | jiāotōng ānquán: traffic safety
9.  | 停电 | tíngdiàn: loss of power
10.  | 为了安全起见 | wèile ānquán qǐjiàn: for safety reasons
11.  | 备课 | bèikè:  (teachers) prepare for classes
12.  | 睡懒觉 | shuìlǎnjiào: sleep in
13.  | 充裕 | chōngyù: rich, abundant
14.  | 赶 | gǎn: rushed
15.  | 囤 | dùn: store up
16.  | 理解 | lǐjiě: understand
17.  | 提议 | tíyì: propose, proposal
18.  | 自由时间 | zìyóu shíjiān: free time
19.  | 效率 | xiàolǜ: efficiency, productivity
20.  | 正常 | zhèngcháng: normal
21.  | 希望 | xīwàng: hope

把你的问题和建议发给我！

Support the show

It's truly an honor that my podcast can provide help and value to you. Your support and engagement mean the world to me. If you like 5 Minute Chinese, please help me by subscribing, liking, and sharing the show so that it can help more people. Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, you can email me at TheLoneMandarinTeacher@outlook.com.

Hello everyone! In this Mandarin episode, I talk about Genshin Impact (原神), an open-world action game I started playing last weekend at the recommendation of my students.  What is the theme of Genshin Impact? And why do I like the game? Let's find out.


大家好，欢迎收听。今天想跟大家聊一个我最近开始玩的游戏，叫《原神》，英文名字叫Genshin Impact。我在中文的社交媒体上见过这个游戏的广告，而且我有几个八年级的学生也都在玩。他们就一直跟我推荐这个游戏，让我一定要玩。上周末正好是（MLK）长周末，所以我就有时间好好地玩了这个游戏。

《原神》是由上海“米哈游”（公司）制作发行的一款开放世界角色冒险游戏。在游戏开始的时候，旅行者兄妹——哥哥“空”和妹妹“荧”——在不同世界之间旅行（我选择了哥哥）。故事一开始，妹妹就被带走，与哥哥分离了。为了找回妹妹，哥哥从此踏上探险的旅程。他的第一站是蒙德城Mondstadt。我现在也只玩到了蒙德城的地图。我现在解锁了四个人物，最开始的旅行者哥哥，Amber，Kaeya和Lisa。我最喜欢用的是哥哥和Kaeya。

我挺喜欢这个游戏的。首先，我觉得游戏的画质很精美。人物和动作的细节处理都很不错。在广阔的地图上探索的时候，美丽的画面让人很享受。可以在新世界里通过人物体验一年四季，阴晴雨雪，顺便打怪物也不错哈。而且，不但原野很漂亮，城市做得也很漂亮。蒙德城Mondstadt应该是根据中世纪的德国城市做的。你可以去城里的饭店买外卖。也可以去酒吧坐下来喝酒，还可以去商店买卖东西。我觉得很有意思。听说下一站璃月港是根据中国古代的城市做的。我很期待自己能玩到那儿。可以体验古中国的美。我觉得这个游戏好玩的另一个原因就是人物设定。每个人物都有自己的元素属性。这里我觉得有点儿借鉴了中国文化里的“五行”：金gold、木wood、水water、火fire、土earth。这就是中国文化里的five elements—五行。比如，水“克”火。克 means defeat or against. 所以水water against 火fire。在原神游戏里一共有七种不同的元素(element)，你需要知道用什么元素才能打败另一个元素的怪物。 比如，下雨的时候，或者在河边湿地，你就可以用Kaeya的冰攻击。因为怪物身上有水，你就可以把它冻住以后再攻击他。这样更有效。

总之我觉得原神是一个制作精良的游戏。如果大家最近有空的话，我推荐你下载玩一下。我也会继续玩这个游戏的。

好了。关于原神今天就跟大家聊到这里。感谢您的收听。再见。

Useful words and expressions

1.  | 原神 | Yuán shén: (game) Genshin Impact
2.  | 社交媒体 | shè jiāo méitǐ: Social media
3.  | 广告 | guǎnggào: advertisement
4.  | 推荐 | tuījiàn: recommend; recommendation
5.  | 制作发行 | zhìzuò fāxíng: produce & publish
6.  | 开放世界 | kāifàng shìjiè:  open world
7.  | 角色冒险 | juésè màoxiǎn: character adventure
8.  | 旅行者 | lǚxíng zhě: traveller
9.  | 分离 | fēnlí: separate, set apart
10.  | 踏上 | tà shàng: set foot on (a journey)
11.  | 探险 | tànxiǎn: explore & adventure
12.  | 解锁 | jiěsuǒ: unlock
13.  | 人物 | rénwù: character, personality 
14.  | 画质精美 | huà zhì jīngměi: high resolution (lit) picture quality delicate and beautiful
15.  | 动作 | dòngzuò: action
16. | 细节处理 | xìjié chǔlǐ:  handling of details - (lit) detail handle 
17.  | 广阔 | guǎngkuò: wide, expansive
18.  | 探索 | tànsuǒ: explore
19.  | 画面 | huàmiàn picture
20.  | 享受 | xiǎngshòu: enjoy
21.  | 体验 | tǐyàn: experience 
22.  | 顺便 | shùnbiàn: on the side, by the way
23.  | 打怪(物) | dǎ guài (wù): beat monsters
24.  | 原野 | yuányě: field (such as grass-covered plain)
25.  | 中世纪 | zhōngshìjì:  Middle Ages
26.  | 德国 | déguó: Germany
27.  | 古（代） | gǔ (dài): ancient
28.  | 期待 | qídài: anticipate,  look forward to 
29.  | 元素 | yuánsù: element
30.  | 属性 | shǔxìng: characteristic
31. |设定| shè dìng：setting
32.  | 借鉴 | jièjiàn: borrow from, build on (an idea, concept)
33.  | 五行 | wǔháng: (Chinese culture)Five Element 
34.  | 打败 | dǎbài: beat, defeat
35.  | 湿地 | shīdì: wetland
36.  | 攻击 | gōngjí: attack
37.  | 冻 | dòng: freeze, frozen
38.  | 有效 | yǒuxiào: effective
39.  | 精良| jīngliáng: excellent, sophisticated

把你的问题和建议发给我！

Support the show

It's truly an honor that my podcast can provide help and value to you. Your support and engagement mean the world to me. If you like 5 Minute Chinese, please help me by subscribing, liking, and sharing the show so that it can help more people. Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, you can email me at TheLoneMandarinTeacher@outlook.com.

In this Mandarin episode, I explore the word 班/class. If you are a Mandarin student, this word is probably among the first that you learned. But have you ever thought of the socio-cultural concept of 班/class in a real school experience？What is a class in the US school context vs a 班 in a Chinese school? Let's find out! 

(script)

大家好，欢迎收听。今天想跟大家聊“班”这个词。班被翻译成class。但是翻译并不能让我们很好地认识社会文化上”班“的差别。所以下面我会用我自己的经历来对比中国和美国，从而解释“班”这个词。

说中国的班/class的概念以前，我们先说说美国的班/class。在美国小学和幼儿园阶段，学生们每天都是跟自己的“班”在一起学习，吃饭，活动。比如我在的学校，五年级分成两个班。每个班的课程表是不一样的，但是每个班里的学生的课（程）表都是一样的。每个班每天学的的东西也是一样的。两个班不在一起学。但是到了初、高中阶段，每个学生的课程表就都不一样了。因为每个学生可以根据自己的需要安排自己每周的课程。这样他们就可以选自己喜欢的，适合上的课。每个人都有自己的课表，很少有人的课表跟另外一个人的完全重合。

那中国的情况呢？中国的学校都是以班为单位上课、组织活动的。如果你去一个中国的高中，你会看到有教室门口都挂着牌子。上面写着班级的名字，比如“高三4班”。就是高中三年级的第四个班。 中国学校会在所有学生刚进入小学，初中和高中的时候进行分班。分班以后一般不会再进行大的调整。所以一个中国学生在整个小学，初中或者高中阶段，都是在同一个班，跟一样的同学一起学习，生活。高中三年，一个班的同学就一起学习生活三年。像美国的小学的班，每个班的课程表是不一样的，但是每个班里的学生的课表是一样的。大家一起上课，活动。

中国学校里每个班的教室也是固定不变的。同一个班的学生每天都会在自己班的教室等不同课的老师来上课。对比在美国，教室的牌子上不是班的名字，而是老师的名字。美国老师会一直在自己的教室教课，备课，改作业，判卷子，学生只在有这个老师的课的时候才会来这个教室上课。对比在中国，老师会在教师办公室工作。因为教室是一个班的学生学习的地方，不是老师工作的地方。中国教室可以说是学生的home base。老师只是来上课的。

现在我们回到班/class的定义，你就可以理解，美国人说的class和中国人想的班是不一样的。美国人说的class——特别是初中，高中的时候——指的是一个grade level cohort。比如the senior class。可是中国人说“班”，说的是一个“什么活动都一起做，什么课都一起上”的团体。中文说“我们班”指的是几年朝夕相处的一群人的概念。正因为如此，所以中国人对一个“班”的同学的感情可能会更深一些。而因为美国初高中学生因为课程组织安排的差异，很少会有这样的经历。

好了，今天跟大家聊了聊班这个定义。希望大家喜欢。再见！

Useful words and expressions

1.  | 翻译 | Fānyì: translate
2.  | 并 | bìng: not at all
3.  | 社会文化 | shèhuì wénhuà: society & culture
4.  | 差别/异| chābié/yì : difference
5.  | 经历 | jīnglì: experience
6.  | 从而 | cóng'ér: thus, thereby
7.  | 概念 | gàiniàn: concept
8.  | 阶段 | jiēduàn: stage
9.  | 分成 | fēnchéng: divide, categorize into
10.  | 课（程）表 | kè (chéng) biǎo: class schedule
11.  | 根据…需要 | gēnjù…xūyào: based on ... need
12.  | 重合 | chónghé: overlap
13.  | 情况 | qíngkuàng: situation, circumstance
14.  | 以…为单位 | yǐ…wèi dānwèi: treat ... as a unit
15.  | 牌子 | páizi: sign, 
16.  | 调整 | tiáozhěng: adjust
17.  | 整个 | zhěnggè: the whole, entire...
18.  | 生活 | shēnghuó: live, life
19.  | 固定不变 | gùdìng bù biàn: set and unchanged
20.  | 而 | ér: however
21.  | 改作业 | gǎi zuòyè: check and give correction on homework
22.  | 判卷子 | pàn juànzi: grade exams
23.  | 定义 | dìngyì: define, defination
24.  | 理解 | lǐjiě: understand, comprehend
25.  | 朝夕相处 | zhāoxìxiāngchǔ: 
26.  | 正因为如此 | zhèng yīnwèi rúcǐ: exactly because of this
27.  | 感情 | gǎnqíng: emotions, feelings

把你的问题和建议发给我！

Support the show

It's truly an honor that my podcast can provide help and value to you. Your support and engagement mean the world to me. If you like 5 Minute Chinese, please help me by subscribing, liking, and sharing the show so that it can help more people. Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, you can email me at TheLoneMandarinTeacher@outlook.com.

In this Mandarin episode, I talk about China's weather: is it winter or summer in China now? What's the weather like in China? Is China cold or hot? Script and useful expressions can be found below. 

(Script)
大家好，欢迎收听。今天跟大家聊聊中国的天气。有时候会有美国朋友问我，中国现在什么季节？跟我们（美国）一样吗？现在也是冬天吗？中国冷不冷？所以今天我们就说说中国的天气和气候的话题。

首先，中国在北半球。北半球现在是冬天，中国也是冬天。不过，不能因为中国和美国一样：都在北半球，就认为中国的气候和美国的气候一样。中美虽然都在北半球，但是地理位置不一样，地形地貌也不一样，所以两个国家的气候自然也就不一样了。

中国是一个国土面积很大的国家。不同地方的天气差别很大。所以不能一概而论地说中国现在的天气怎么样或者中国的气候如何。就像我们说美国天气的时候，不能说美国现在很热或者很冷。因为美国太大了。在同一天的同一个时间，可能Seattle是阴天，很冷，但是Miami却是大晴天，像夏天一样。比如，很多中国人冬天的时候会飞去海南岛过冬。海南岛是中国南部的一个岛。像美国的Hawaii，是度假胜地。海南的首都海口今天的气温是摄氏17度到21度（17-21 degrees Celsius) or 华氏64到70度(64-70 degrees Fahrenheit)。而这一天中国最北的漠河市最高气温零下18度，最低气温零下28度。(-18~-28 degrees Celsius) or 华氏最高温度零下2度，最低气温零下20度 (-2~ -20 degrees Fahrenheit)。所以你看中国南北的天气是非常不一样的，气温差很多。不只是南北，中国的东西，内陆和沿海的气候差别也很大。

我们现在来练习几个小问题吧！我说问题，然后给你十秒钟的时间回答，然后我再回答。


1. 你们那儿现在是冬天还是夏天？

A: 我住在美国现在是冬天。

2. 最近的天气怎么样？

A: 我们最近晴天，但是天气很冷。

3.  你在的城市现在气温是多少？

A: 我们今天最高47度 最低30度 (F)

4. 你喜欢你在的城市的气候吗？

A: 我挺喜欢的。因为我们冬天不冷。我很不喜欢冷。

5. 你喜欢冷的天气还是热的天气呢？

A:我比较喜欢热一点的天气。热比冷好。

Useful expressions

1.  | 天气 | Tiānqì: weather
2.  | 气候 | qìhòu: climate
3.  | 北半球 | běibànqiú: Northern Hemisphere
4.  | 冬天 | dōngtiān: winter
5.  | 地理位置 | dìlǐ wèizhì:  Geographical location
6.  | 地形地貌 | dìxíng dìmào: geography, terrain
7.  | 自然 | zìrán: nature, naturally
8.  | 国土面积 | guótǔ miànjī:  Land area of a country
9.  | 差别 | chābié: difference
10.  | 一概而论 | yīgài'érlùn: generalized, blanked statement
11.  | 同（相同） | tóng (xiāngtóng): same
12.  | 阴天 | yīn tiān: cloudy, overcast
13.  | 晴天 | qíngtiān: sunny
14.  | 夏天 | xiàtiān: summer
15.  | 过冬 | guòdōng: spend the winter season
16.  | 岛 | dǎo: island
17.  | 度假胜地 | dùjià shèngdì: resort, vacation destination
18.  | 摄氏度 | shèshìdù: celsius
19.  | 华氏度 | huáshì dù: Fahrenheit
20.  | 温度/气温 | wēndù/qìwēn: temperature
21.  | 内陆 | nèi lù: inland
22.  | 沿海 | yánhǎi: coastal

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In this Mandarin episode (with script), I talk about buying things in this day and age: how easy is it to get what we want either online or in-store? Based on my recent experience, it's not as smooth or fast as we'd like it to be. 

After talking about my recent experience, I have 5 questions that are related to today's topic. For each question, you will have 20 seconds to respond. My answers are after the 20s response time. The script and useful expressions are below. Let me know if you have any questions or suggestions.

(script)

大家好，今天想跟大家聊聊现在我们买东西的时候遇到的涨价和缺货的情况。我去年12月27号从William Sonoma的网站上买了一把厨房剪刀。我以为很快就能收到，结果我下单以后就缺货了。网站上显示要等到1月19-20号才能收到。所以我现在也没有剪刀用。真的很不方便。上一期节目跟大家说，我想换一套新的厨房家电：灶台，冰箱，微波炉。可是我问了很多店，他们都说现在没有货。我想要的的牌子，最快的也得10-14个星期。其他牌子也没有货。你们那儿也是这样吗？

我准备了五个相关问题。每个问题后面有二十秒时间给你思考回答。二十秒之后我会给我的回答。那我们现在开始吧!

1.  你喜欢网购还是去实体店买？(1:28)

我喜欢网购。不过，很多东西还是去实体店买比较好。比如衣服，可以去在店里试了再买。家具也是，还是去实地看看摸摸再买更好。

2.  你最近买了什么东西？(2:15)

我最近买了两件毛衣和一些厨房用品。都很不错。我很喜欢。

3. 你想买的东西都能买到吗？有没有缺货？(2:48)

我想买的吃的，还有生活用品都买到了。可是我买的厨房剪刀还是缺货，不知道什么时候才能收到。

4. 你等了多久才收到订购的东西？(3:28)

在Amazon网购的东西，只要有货，都很快收到了。差不多三四天吧。缺货的东西，我不知道要多久才能收到。

5. 你觉得最近东西涨价了吗？(4:06)

我觉得最近很多东西都涨价了。吃的东西涨了不少。比如我喜欢吃的chipotle，两年前的一份牛肉饭只要8 美元，现在要10.95。感觉很多大大小小的东西都贵了。

Useful expressions:

1.  | 遇到 | Yù dào: encounter
2.  | 涨价 | zhǎng jià: price increase, raise the price
3.  | 缺货 | quē huò: backorder, lacking stock
4.  | 情况 | qíngkuàng: situation
5.  | 剪刀 |Jiǎndāo: scissors
6.  | 下单 | xià dān: place the order
7.  | 显示 | xiǎnshì: to show, display
8.  | 牌子 | páizi: brand, sign
9.  | 没（有）货 | méi (yǒu) huò: doesn't have item, out of stock
10.  | 网购 | wǎnggòu: online shopping
11.  | 实体店 | shítǐ diàn: physical store
12.  | 家具 | jiājù: furniture
13.  | 实地 | shídì: on-site
14.  | 摸 | mō: touch
15.  | 毛衣 | máoyī: sweater
16.  | 厨房用品 | chúfáng yòngpǐn: kitchen supplies
17.  | 生活用品 | shēnghuó yòngpǐn: everyday life essentials
18.  | 订购 | dìnggòu: subscribe & order

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In this Mandarin episode, I talk about the differences between a typical Chinese kitchen and a typical kitchen in the west. First, a Chinese kitchen is not usually equipped with a full-size oven and a dishwasher like we see in an American kitchen. Secondly, a Chinese kitchen is often separated from the rest of the house by design due to the cooking smoke, which is more of a source of indoor air pollution than western-style cooking.

Some useful expressions:

1.  | 中式厨房  | Zhōngshì chúfáng: Chinese-style kitchen
2.  | 西式 | xīshì: "Western" -style (not America's West, but west hemisphere/the western world)
3.  | 灶台 | zào tái: stove-top 
4.  | 微波炉 | wéibōlú: microwave
5.  | 家电配置 | jiādiàn pèizhì: home appliance set-up
6.  | 大烤箱 | dà kǎoxiāng: big oven/full-size oven
7.  | 洗碗机 | xǐ wǎn jī: dishwasher
8.  | 越来越多 | yuè lái yuè duō: more and more 
9.  | 装 | zhuāng: install
10.  | 主要 | zhǔyào: main
11.  | 空间 | kōngjiān: space
12.  | 传统中餐 | chuántǒng zhōngcān: traditional Chinese food
13.  | 占地方 | zhàn dìfāng: take up space
14.  | 封闭 | fēngbì: confined, closed off
15.  | 开放式 | kāifàng shì: open-style
16.  | 单独 | dāndú: stand-alone
17.  | 屋子 | wūzi: room
18.  | 隔开 | gé kāi: separate, set apart
19.  | 设计 | shèjì: design
20.  | 跟…有关 | gēn…yǒuguān: relate to...
21.  | 饮食 | yǐnshí: diet, food
22.  | 煎炒烹炸 | jiān chǎo pēng zhà: (signature Chinese cooking methods): panfry, stir-fry, boil, deep-fry
23.  | 油烟 | yóuyān: cooking smoke/cooking fume
24.  | 污染 | wūrǎn: pollute, pollution
25.  | 所有 | suǒyǒu: all
26. |特点| tèdiǎn：feature, trait, characteristic
27.  | 吸油烟机 | xīyóu yān jī: kitchen vent(ilator)/range hood
28.  |吸力| xīlì: extraction power
29.  | 烹饪 | pēngrèn: cooking (formal)
30.  | 产生 | chǎnshēng: produce

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In this Mandarin episode, I talk about what things to bring for travel. ID, money and phone are basic essentials (0:09). Also, don't forget to bring toiletries (1:27) and a travel medicine kit (2:07).  Lastly, make sure you bring appropriate clothing (3:02) according to the weather and your travel purpose.

Some useful words and expressions to put on your vocabulary packing list:

Basic Essentials (0:09)

1.  | 身份证明 | Shēnfèn zhèngmíng: personal ID
2.  | 驾照 | jiàzhào: driver's license
3.  | 护照 | hùzhào: passport
4.  | 钱包 | qiánbāo: wallet, purse
5.  | 信用卡 | xìnyòngkǎ: credit card
6.  | 现金 | xiànjīn: cash
7.  | 零钱 | língqián: change (money)
8.  | 支付 | zhīfù: payment, pay
9.  | 系统 | xìtǒng: system
10.  | 所幸 | suǒxìng: thankfully
11.  | 保持联系 | bǎochí liánxì: keep in contact
12.  | 不可或缺 | bùkě huò quē: indispensable

Toiletries (1:27)

1.  | 洗漱用品 | xǐshù yòngpǐn: Toiletries 
2.  | 洗面奶 | xǐmiàn nǎi: facial cleaner 
3.  | 牙膏牙刷 | yágāo yáshuā: toothpaste & toothbrush 
4.  | 化妆品 | huàzhuāngpǐn: cosmetics
5.  | 粉底 | fěndǐ: foundation (cosmetics)
6.  | 眉笔 | méi bǐ: eyebrow pencil
7.  | 眼影 | yǎnyǐng: eye shadow
8.  | 洗发水护发素 | xǐ fǎ shuǐ hù fā sù: shampoo & conditioner
9.  | 身体乳 | shēntǐ rǔ: body lotion
10.  | 沟通 | gōutōng: communicate

 
Medicine for travel (2:07)

1.  | 医药用品 | yīyào yòngpǐn: medical supplies
2.  | 新冠疫情 | xīnguān yìqíng: COVID pandemic
3.  | 消毒用品 | xiāodú yòngpǐn: disinfectant 
4.  | 酒精湿巾 | jiǔjīng shī jīn: alchohol wipes
5.  | 免洗洗手液 | miǎn xǐ xǐshǒu yè: hand sanitizer 
6.  | 口罩 | kǒuzhào: face mask
7.  | 保健品 | bǎojiàn pǐn: dietary supplements
8.  | 按照 | ànzhào: according to 
9.  | 计算 | jìsuàn: calculate
10.  | 药物 | yàowù: medicine
11.  | 布洛芬 | bù luò fēn: ibuprofen 
12.  | 肠胃药 | chángwèi yào: Gastrointestinal medicine 
13. | 野外徒步  | yěwài túbù: outdoor hiking 
14.  | 蚊虫叮咬 | wénchóng dīngyǎo: mosquito & insect stings/bites
15.  | 喷雾 | pēnwù: spray
16.  | 药膏 | yàogāo: ointment

 
Clothing (3:02)

1.  | 根据 | gēnjù: based on
2.  | 目的 | mùdì: purpose
3.  | 拍照打卡 | pāizhào dǎkǎ: take pictures and check off the list 
4.  | 时尚 | shíshàng: fashion
5.  | 露营 | lùyíng: camping out
6.  | 登山 | dēngshān: hiking (in mountains)
7.  | 天气预报 | tiānqì yùbào: weather forecast
8.  | 安全舒适 | ānquán shūshì: safe and comfortable

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It's truly an honor that my podcast can provide help and value to you. Your support and engagement mean the world to me. If you like 5 Minute Chinese, please help me by subscribing, liking, and sharing the show so that it can help more people. Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, you can email me at TheLoneMandarinTeacher@outlook.com.

In this Mandarin episode, I talk about what Chinese people like to drink when they eat in a restaurant or hang out with friends. Orange juice and coke are popular in restaurants, along with some traditional drinks such as plum juice and Chinese herbal tea. Milk tea or Boba tea is hugely popular among the Chinese, especially the young, in all occasions.

1.  | 准确 | Zhǔnquè: accurate
2.  | 资料 | zīliào: resource, material
3.  | 采访 | cǎifǎng: interview
4.  | 椰汁 | yē zhī: coconut milk
5.  | 橙汁 | chéngzhī: orange juice
6.  | 甜茶 | tiánchá: sweet tea
7.  | 传统 | chuántǒng: traditional
8.  | 酸梅汤 | suānméitāng: plum juice
9.  | 消暑 | xiāoshǔ: relieve the summer heat
10.  | 凉茶 | liángchá: Chinese herbal tea (common in Guangdong regions)
11.  | 功效 | gōngxiào: effect
12.  | 奶茶 | nǎichá: milk tea, boba tea
13.  | 混合 | hùnhé: mix
14.  | 珍珠 | zhēnzhū: pearl 
15.  | 椰果 | yē guǒ: jelly (in boba)
16.  | 布丁 | bùdīng: pudding
17.  | 甜度 | tián dù: sweet level
18.  | 多糖/少糖/无糖 | duōtáng/shǎo táng/wú táng: more/less/no sugar
19.  | 温度 | wēndù: temperature
20.  | 热饮/冰饮 | rèyǐn/bīng yǐn: hot/cold drink
21.  | 基本步骤 | jīběn bùzhòu: basic steps
22.  | 口味 | kǒuwèi: flavor
23.  | 不妨试试 | bùfáng shì shì: might as well try

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In this Mandarin episode, I talk about the perennial question: Do Chinese people celebrate Christmas?  I try to first define celebrate in terms of whether we treat Christmas as a religious holiday. If so, then most Chinese don't celebrate Christmas in that sense. However, if we broaden the concept of Christmas as a holiday celebration for friends and family to get together and have a good time, then a lot of Chinese do participate. If you celebrate Christmas in any shape or form, I wish you a Merry Christmas!

Some useful expressions: 

1.  | 圣诞节 | Shèngdàn jié: Christmas
2.  | 定义 | dìngyì: define, definition
3.  | 宗教意义 | zōngjiào yìyì: religious meaning
4.  | 毕竟 | bìjìng: after all
5.  | 信教 | xìnjiào: believe in religion (usually referring to Christianity)
6.  | 放宽 | fàngkuān: broaden, let expand
7.  | 当成 | dàngchéng: regard as
8.  | 传统 | chuántǒng: tradition, traditional
9.  | 阖家团圆 | hé jiā tuányuán: family reunion
10.  | 聚会 | jùhuì: party, get-together
11.  | 装饰 | zhuāngshì: decorate, decoration
12.  | 圣诞树 | shèngdànshù: Christmas Tree
13.  | 集市 | jí shì: market (esp. with street vendors, outdoor market)
14.  | 种类 | zhǒnglèi: variety, type
15.  | 口味 | kǒuwèi: taste, flavor
16.  | 增加 | zēngjiā: increase, add to
17.  | 气氛 | qìfēn: atomsphere
18.  | 年轻人 | niánqīng rén: young people
19.  | 专利 | zhuānlì: patent, specialty, limited to certain group
20.  | 普及 | pǔjí: widespread
21.  | 互赠礼物 | hù zèng lǐwù: exchange gifts
22.  | 欢聚 | huānjù: happily gather
23.  | 郑重其事 | zhèngzhòng qí shì: take something seriously, solemnly 
24.  | 大张旗鼓 | dàzhāngqígǔ: on a big scale, in a big way 
25.  | 相通 | xiāngtōng: universal, interconnected, shared
26.  | 年龄 | niánlíng: age
27.  | 享受 | xiǎngshòu: enjoy

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In this Mandarin episode, I talk about my recent trip by air and what I like to do while traveling on a plane.

Some useful expressions:

1.  | 更新 | Gēngxīn: update, renew
2.  | 转机 | zhuǎnjī: transfer, connect (flight)
3.  | 直达 | zhídá: direct (flight)
4.  | 打发时间 | dǎfā shíjiān: kill time
5.  | 羡慕 | xiànmù: envy, admire
6.  | 下载 | xiàzài: download
7.  | 飞行模式 | fēixíng móshì: airplane mode
8.  | 配上 | pèi shàng: to fit, pair with
9.  | 降噪耳机 | jiàng zào ěrjī: noise-cancellation earphones
10.  | 感受 | gǎnshòu: feelings
11.  | 干扰 | gānrǎo: interfere, disturb
12.  | 专心 | zhuānxīn:  focused, concentrated
13.  | 沉浸其中 | chénjìn qízhōng: immerse in (something)
14.  | 有声书 | yǒushēng shū: audible book
15.  | 选择 | xuǎnzé: choice, select
16.  | 闭目养神 | bì mù yǎngshén: close eyes & recharge
17.  | 休息 | xiūxí: rest
18.  | 电子书 | diànzǐ shū: e-book
19.  | 累 | lèi: tired
20.  | 自带 | zì dài: bring your own
21.  | 娱乐系统 | yú yuè xìtǒng: entertainment system
22.  | 长途 | chángtú: long-distance, long-haul
23.  | 屏幕 | píngmù: screen
24.  | 空乘人员 | kōngchéng rényuán: flight attendant
25.  | 一直 | yīzhí: always, continuously
26.  | 一路顺利 | yīlù shùnlì: Bon voyage
27.  | 旅途愉快 | lǚtú yúkuài: Happy travel

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In this episode of "Five Minutes Chinese," I share the excitement and significance of prom night, a cherished tradition for American high school students. I recount my experience of volunteering at our school's prom, from the meticulous preparations to the elegant attire and the joyous atmosphere created by photographers and DJs. I also reveal the heartfelt story behind my special yellow dress, a gift from my students, marking our seven-year journey from middle school to graduation. As I reflect on their growth and bid them farewell, I express both nostalgia and optimism for their bright futures. 

Due to space constraints, I'm unable to include the transcript here. However, if you'd like a copy, please feel free to email me, and I'll happily send it your way. Additionally, if you have any questions or comments, don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you all a fantastic day!

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In this Mandarin episode, I talk about our exam week this week: the organization, time and format, the tiredness, the stress and sincere gratitude. I want to give thanks to my students and listeners. I appreciate the opportunity to share my life with you all. 

Some useful words:

1. 疲惫Píbèi：tired, exhausted
2. 虽然...但是...suīrán... Dànshì... :  although... but...
3. 调整Tiáozhěng: adjust, alter
4. 工作量gōngzuò liàng: workload
5. 出题chū tí : to author or create questions (for school exams, tests)
6. 过程guòchéng: process
7. 回顾huígù: look back, review
8. 整个zhěnggè: entire, whole
9. 内容nèiróng: content
10. 总结zǒngjié: summary, summarize 
11. 交卷（子）jiāojuàn (zi): submit or turn in the exam paper
12. 批改pīgǎi:  to grade/mark (e.g. exam, writing)
13. 待dài: stay till
14. 焦急jiāojí  anxious
15. 成绩chéngjī:   grade/score
16. 尽快jǐnkuài: ASAP
17. 年初niánchū: beginning of the year
18. 假期jiàqī: vacation period
19. 福利fúlì: (work, social) benefit
20. 感谢gǎnxiè: give thanks to
21. 珍惜zhēnxī: cherish
22. 时光shíguāng: time  (more poetic, formal)
23. 不仅仅bùjǐn: not just
24. 圣诞shèngdànL Christmas
25. 支持zhīchí: support

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In this Mandarin Q &A practice, I ask 5 questions on buying clothes. After each question, you have 5 seconds to respond yourself before hearing my response. The script (English & Chinese) are below. If you have any questions or comments, please email me at TheLoneMandarinTeacher@outlook.com. 


1.  Q: 你平时都去哪儿买衣服(呢)? 
      A: 我平时都是上网/去shein/去商场买衣服。

2.  Q: 你喜欢穿什么牌子(páizi: brand)的衣服？      
       A: 我最喜欢穿nike的衣服，可是我也喜欢别的牌子。
             OR 我其实不太在乎衣服的牌子。穿着舒服就可以了。

3. Q: 你买衣服的时候是更注重样式(yàngshì: fashion style)还是更注重材质(cáizhì: material) ？
     A: 我买衣服最看重材质，因为材质好穿着才舒服。
     OR: 我买衣服的时候最看重样式。我不需要它穿着舒服，但是一定要穿着好看。

4.  Q: 你多久买一次衣服？
       A: 我一般一个月买一次衣服。 
       OR: 我很少买新衣服。我只有在过年的时候才买衣服。

5. Q: 你穿多大号的衣服/鞋？
      A: 我穿大/中/小号的衣服。
            我穿7号半（的鞋）。（对应中国号码：38号）

1.  Question: Where do you usually buy clothes?
      A: I usually go online / go to Shein.com / go to the mall to buy clothes

2. Q: What clothes do you like to wear?
      A: I like to wear Nike the most, but I also like other brands’ clothes.
             Or I actually don't really care about the brand of clothes as long as it wears comfortably.

3. Q: When you buy clothes, do value the design/style or material more?
     A: I value the material most when I buy clothes, because only when the material is good will it be comfortable to wear.
     Or: I value style the most when I buy clothes. I don’t need it to be comfortable, but it has to look                  good.

4.  Q: How often do you buy clothes?
       A: I usually buy clothes once a month.
      Or: I rarely buy new clothes. I only buy clothes during the Chinese New Year.

5. Q: What size clothes/shoes do you wear?
     A: I wear large/medium/small clothes.
           I wear (shoes) in size 7 and a half (Corresponding Chinese size:  size 38)

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In this Mandarin episode, I talked about Shein, a popular online clothing store that is located in China but targets markets outside of China.  Have Chinese people heard of Shein? Where do Chinese people buy clothes online?

1. 总部 Zǒngbù：Headquarters
2. 电商 diàn shāng：E-commerce company
3. 卖衣服 mài yīfú：sell clothes
4. 发展迅速 fāzhǎn xùnsù：develop rapidly
5. 疫情阶段  yìqíng jiēduàn：pandemic period
6. 抓住利用机会 zhuā zhù lìyòng jīhuì：Seize and use the opportunity
7. 网红营销 wǎng hóng yíngxiāo：influencer marketing
8. 真实生活 zhēnshí shēnghuó ：real life
9. 算法 suànfǎ：algorithm
10. 通过 tōngguò：pass through
11. 推荐 tuījiàn：recommend
12. 购买 gòumǎi ：purchase, buy
13. 薄利多销  bólì duō xiāo：razor-thin profits but huge sales amount
14. 挣到钱 zhēng dào qián：earn money
15. 量 liàng：quantity
16. 火 huǒ：hot，popular，fire
17. 惊讶 jīngyà：surprised
18. 消费 xiāofèi：consume, consumption
19. 市场shìchǎng：market
20. 淘宝/京东/唯品会 táobǎo/jīngdōng/wéi pǐn huì：Taobao/JD/Vipshop - popular e-commerce site in China

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In this Mandarin episode, I talk about the historical, geographical and cultural reasons behind China's preference for pork over all other meat.

1. 牛肉 Niúròu: beef
2. 猪肉 zhūròu: pork
3. 欧美 ōuměi: (abbr) europe and america 
4. 农业 nóngyè: agriculture
5. 农耕 nónggēng: agriculture, crop growing
6. 耕地 gēng dì: to plow land
7. 深厚 shēnhòu: deep-rooted
8. 生产工具 shēngchǎn gōngjù: production tool
9. 古代 gǔdài: ancient
10. 皇帝 huángdì: emperor
11. 畜牧 xùmù: pasture, graze
12. 地广人稀  dì guǎng rén xī: vast land, few people
13. 平原广阔 píngyuán guǎngkuò: vast plain
14. 水草丰茂 shuǐcǎo fēngmào: abundant in water and grassland
15. 圈养 juànyǎng: to pen in (a pig)
16. 精细 juànyǎng: meticulously, with care
17. 照看 zhàokàn: care for, look after
18. 养活 yǎnghuo: raise, keep (an animal)
19. 生产周期 shēngchǎn zhōuqí: production cycle
20. 传统 chuántǒng: traditional
21. 现实 xiànshí: realistic
22. 消费 xiāofèi: consume, consumption
23. 内蒙古 nèiménggǔ: inner mongolia
24. 养成 yǎng chéng:  cultivate, form (a habit)
25. 习惯 chéng xíguàn: habit

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In this Mandarin episode, I explain the Chinese lyrics of the hot Tik Tok song Super Idol. You can find the lyrics and YouTube link below, along with some useful vocabulary words I used.

1. 火 (huǒ): hot, popular
2. 迷(mí): obsessed, fascinated
3. 分析(fēnxī): analyze
4. 歌词(gēcí): lyrics
5. 笑容(xiàoróng): smile
6. 梦想(mèngxiǎng): dream
7. 成为(chéngwéi): become
8. 主持(zhǔchí): host (an event)
9. 演戏(yǎnxì): act (in a film or TV show)
10. 才艺(cáiyì): talent, skill
11. 耀眼(yàoyǎn): dazzling
12. 热爱(rè'ài): love passionately
13. 摄氏度(shèshìdù): degree celsius
14. 沸点(fèidiǎn): boiling point (100 degrees celsius=212 degrees fahrenheit)
15. 滴(dī): drop
16. 清纯(qīngchún): pure
17. 蒸馏水(zhēngliúshuǐ): distilled water
18. 纯净(chúnjìng): pure, clear
19. 不含(bù hán): not contain
20. 杂质(zázhí): impurities

歌词Lyrics：

super idol 的笑容
都没你的甜
八月正午的阳光
都没你耀眼
热爱105度的你
滴滴清纯的蒸馏水

YouTube Link to the song：https://youtu.be/aCgP8BFjrw4

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In this Mandarin episode, I talked about my Saturday reunion with a friend whom I met in 2014. We went for a walk in the state park, visited our local aquarium, and had a lot of seafood and a lot of talk.  I'm grateful for our friendship and times of reunion like this. 

Some useful words

1. 大学/研究生 (Dàxué/yánjiūshēng): University/Graduate
2. 毕业 (bìyè): graduate
3. 交流 (jiāoliú): exchange
4. 疫情 (yìqíng): pandemic situation
5. 一日游 (yī rì yóu): one-day tour
6. 教授 (jiàoshòu): professor
7. 州立公园 (zhōulì Gōngyuán): state park 
8. 海边 (hǎibiān): seaside
9. 白沙 (báishā): white sand
10. 土 (tǔ): soil
11. 植被 (zhíbèi): vegetation (e.g. plants)
12. 蚊子 (wénzi): mosquito
13. 长大 (zhǎng dà): grow up
14. 海鲜拼盘 (hǎixiān pīnpán): seafood platter
15. 蟹 (xiè): crab
16. 鱼 (yú): fish
17. 虾 (xiā): shrimp
18. 水族馆 (shuǐzú guǎn): aquarium
19. 圣诞树 (shèngdànshù ): Christmas tree
20. 拍照(pāizhào): take pictures
21. 羊排 (yáng pái): lamb chop
22. 亲切 (qīnqiè): close (relationship)
23. 放松 (fàngsōng): relax, relaxing
24. 见面 (jiànmiàn): meet up
25. 一切都好 (yīqiè dōu hǎo): everything goes well

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In this Mandarin episode, I go down the list of traditional Thanksgiving food in the US to see if they are common in China and why.

Some useful words:

1. 食品/食物 (Shípǐn/shíwù): food
2. 火鸡 (huǒ jī): turkey
3. 常见 (chángjiàn ): common
4. 方式 (fāngshì): method
5. 土豆泥 (tǔdòu ní): mashed potato
6. 基本 (jīběn): basic
7. 切 (qiē): cut
8. 块 (kuài): chunk
9. 丝 (sī): thin julienne
10. 炖 (dùn): stew
11. 炒 (chǎo): stir fry
12. 配料 (pèiliào): ingredient
13. 烤箱 (kǎoxiāng): oven
14. 提到 (tí dào): mention
15. 传统 (chuántǒng): traditional 
16. 南瓜 (nánguā): pumpkin
17. 派 (pài): pie
18. 蒸 (zhēng): steam
19. 煮 (zhǔ): boil
20. 邻居 (línjū): neighbor

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This Mandarin episode talks about the traditional American holiday of Thanksgiving, which is not celebrated in China, and the important idea of being grateful and giving thanks in Chinese culture.

Some useful words:

1. 感恩节(gǎn'ēn jié): Thanksgiving Holiday
2. 传统节日 (chuántǒng jiérì): traditional holiday
3. 亲朋好友 (qīnpéng hǎoyǒu): family and friends
4. 解释(jiěshì): explain
5. 反过来 (fǎn guòlái): in turn 
6. 当然 (dāngrán): of course, certainly
7. 就好比 (jiù hǎobǐ): just like
8. ...之类 (... zhī lèi): ...and the like,  such as...
9. 概念 (gàiniàn): concept, idea
10. 谚语 (yànyǔ): proverb
11. 吃水不忘挖井人 (chīshuǐ bù wàng wā jǐng rén): don't forget the well-digger when you drink water from the well
12. 永远(yǒngyuǎn): forever
13. 表达 (biǎodá): express
14. 不管 (bù guǎn): no matter...
15. 理所应当(lǐ suǒ yīngdāng): take things for granted, as it should be 
16. 感谢 (gǎnxiè): grateful, thankful
17. 回报 (huíbào): return (the favor, kindness, help...)

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In this Mandarin episode, I talk about consumer prices of things in China, as compared to the US, to see what is cheaper to buy in China and what could be more expensive and why.  

Some useful words and expressions: 

1. 物价 (Wùjià): consumer price
2. 刀/美元 (dāo (colloquial)/měiyuán): dollar
3. 人民币/元 (rénmínbì/yuán): name of China's currency/Chinese yuan
4. 斤 VS 磅 ( jīn VS bàng): China's weight unit/pound
5. 倍 (bèi) :  -fold, times
6. 换算 (huànsuàn): convert
7. 甚至 (shènzhì): even, so much so that
8. 百/千/万 (bǎi/qiān/wàn): hundred/thousand/ten thousand 
9. 包括(bāo kuò): include
10. 正常（zhèng cháng) normal
11. 网费 (wǎng fèi): internet fee
12. 手机壳 (shǒujī ké): phone case
13. 普通 (pǔtōng): ordinary, common
14. 人工 (réngōng): manual work, labor
15. 安装 (ānzhuāng): install
16. 空调 (kòngtiáo): A/C 
17. 奢侈品 (shēchǐ pǐn): luxury goods
18. 进口 (jìnkǒu): import
19. 交税 (jiāo shuì): pay taxes
20. 高档 (gāodàng): high-end
21. 价格 (jiàgé): price
22. 名牌 (míngpái): name-brand, famous brand

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In this Mandarin episode, I compare the appointment cultures in China and Europe & US: How prevalent is the appointment culture? When do you have to make an appointment to get service?  Can you see a doctor or get a haircut relatively conveniently without appointments? And how may this cultural different potentially affect you?

Some useful words:

1.  预约文化 (yù yuē wén huà): appointment culture
2. 提前(Tíqián): in advance
3. 看医生/看病 (kàn yīshēng/kànbìng)： see a doctor
4. 位置 (Wèizhì): place, location
5. 满 (mǎn): full
6. 剪头发 (jiǎn tóufǎ): cut hair
7. 理发师 (lǐfǎ shī): hair dresser (literal. manage hair master)
8. 不然 (Bùrán) (的话): otherwise
9. 得到(dédào): get
10. 习惯 (xíguàn): habit
11. 安装家具 (jiājù): install/assembly furniture
12. 当然 (dāngrán): of course
13. 随便 (suíbiàn): casually
14. 基本 (jīběn): basic, basically
15. 才能(cáinéng): ... only then
16. 错过 (cuòguò) : miss (appointment, opportunity)
17. 适应 (shìyìng): adapt to, fit
18. 随时 (suíshí): at any time
19. 开会 (kāi huì): have a meeting
20. 谈事情 (tán shìqíng): talk about things (e.g. business deals)

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In this episode of "5 Minutes Chinese," I delve into the captivating topic of solar eclipses, known as 日食 (rì shí) in Chinese. I recently witnessed a partial solar eclipse on April 8th here in the United States, and I share insights into the scientific principle behind these phenomena. While some regions enjoyed a total eclipse, my East Coast location only saw a partial eclipse, called 日偏食 (rì piān shí). Despite this, I share my excitement and attempts to photograph the event. Reflecting on the rarity of eclipses, occurring once every couple of decades, I invite you to share your own eclipse experiences if you have one. 

Due to space constraints, I'm unable to include the transcript here. However, if you'd like a copy, please feel free to email me, and I'll happily send it your way. Additionally, if you have any questions or comments, don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you all a fantastic day!

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In this Mandarin episode, I talk about 高考 (gāo kǎo) college entrance exam. 

1. What is 高考 short for？
2. When is 高考？
3. When are the exams held?
4. What subjects are tested in 高考？
5. What are 文科生 or 理科生？
6. What different subjects are included in 文科综合 and 理科综合？
7. Why is 高考 so important and so stressful? 

Some useful words

1. 简称/全称(Jiǎnchēng/quánchēng): abbreviation/full name
2. 通过(tōngguò): through
3. 举行(jǔxíng): hold
4. 比如(bǐrú): for example
5. 文科综合(wénkē zònghé)(abbr.文综): liberal arts comprehensive
6. 理科综合(lǐkē zònghé)(abbr.理综)：science comprehensive
7. 学科(Xuékē): academic subjects
8. 试卷(shìjuàn): exam paper
9. 选择(xuǎnzé): choose
10. 专业(zhuānyè): major
11. 报名(bàomíng): apply for
12. 社会(shèhuì): society
13. 警车(jǐngchē): police car
14. 压力 (yālì): pressure, stress
15. 业余时间 (yèyú shíjiān): leisure time
16. 解放(jiěfàng): liberating 
17. 噩梦(è mèng) nightmare
18. 办法(bànfǎ): method, way

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In this English episode I talked about Gaokao, China's College Entrance Examination. Questions I covered include:

1. When is Gaokao?
2. Does everyone take the same Gaokao?
3. How crucial is Gaokao score and why?
4. What are the two tracks of Gaokao?

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In this English episode, I briefly introduce how China's education system is structured from Kindergarten to 12th grade. We mainly talk about:

• Age requirements for each level of schooling
• Years students spend in each level 
• Testing requirements for each level
• Importance of Zhongkao & Gaokao

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In this Mandarin episode, I briefly introduce how China's education system is structured from kindergarten to post-secondary education: how many years for each level of schooling, if students have to take exams to move on to the next level in the system,  the school choices parents have and so on. 

Here are some useful words:

1. 教育系统(Jiàoyù xìtǒng): education system
2. 幼儿园 (yòu'éryuán): kindergarten
3. 话题(huàtí): topic of discussion
4. 公立/私立(gōnglì/sīlì): public/private (in talking about organizations such as school or hospital)
5. 咨询(zīxún): consult 
6. 一般（来说）(yībān lái shuō): in general, generally speaking
7. 学区(xuéqū): school district
8. 阶段(jiēduàn): stage, period
9. 小（学）升初（中）-xiǎo (xué) shēng chū (zhōng) : rising from elementary/primary school to middle school
10. 九年义务教育 (jiǔ nián yìwù jiàoyù): (policy) 9-year compulsory education
11. 到...为止 (dào... Wéizhǐ): until... (till...as an end)
12. 进行(jìn xíng): do, conduct
13. 通过(tōng guò)：pass 
14. 中考 (zhōngkǎo): high school entrance exam
15. 高考(gāokǎo): college entrance exam
16. 分数 (fēnshù): score (in school assessments)
17. 报考 (bàokǎo): apply for
18. 毕业 (bìyè): graduation
19. 研究生 (yánjiūshēng): graduate school student
20. 体系 (tǐxì): system

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In today's birthday episode, I talked about how I spent my birthday today. 

Some useful expressions:

1. 其实(qíshí): in reality, actually
2. 请假(qǐngjià): ask for day off
3. 本来(běnlái): originally
4. 醒(xǐng): wake up, awake
5. 习惯(xíguàn): used to; habit
6. 想起来(xiǎng qǐlái): it occurred to me, be reminded
7. 免费(miǎnfèi): free (of charge)
8. 喜好(xǐhào) : preference
9. 反正(fǎnzhèng):  anyway, either way
10. 就我（自己）来说 (jiù wǒ (zìjǐ) lái shuō): as for me (myself)
11. 虽然(suīrán): though, although
12. 毕竟 (bìjìng) :  after all
13. 洗车(xǐchē): wash car
14. 不管...还是... (bùguǎn... Háishì...):  whether ... or ... (or can sometimes be repeated)
15. 刚才(Gāngcái): just now

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In this English episode, I talk about why we had daylight saving in the first place and why China, after briefly experimented with the idea, decided to not use daylight saving time.

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In this Mandarin episode, I explore the history and reason behind Daylight Saving Time and talk about why China only adopted Daylight Saving Time for 6 short years (hint: time zones), as compared to the U.S. where Daylight Saving is still used.

Some useful words:

1. 采用/采取 (Cǎiyòng/cǎiqǔ): adopt
2. 夏时令/冬时令 (xià shílìng/dōng shílìng): Daylight Saving Time,/Winter Time
3. 使用(shǐyòng): use
4. 主要原因(zhǔyào yuányīn): main reason
5. 节能(jiénéng) (short for节约能源(jiéyuē néngyuán): saving energy
6. 天亮(tiānliàng): "sky bright" sun is up
7. 时钟/表(shízhōng/biǎo): clock/watch
8. 调(tiáo): adjust, switch
9. 利用(lìyòng): use, take advantage of
10. 照明(zhàomíng): illuminate
11. 能源紧张(néngyuán jǐnzhāng): energy shortage
12. 战争(zhànzhēng): war
13. 增加/减少(zēngjiā /jiǎnshǎo)：increase/decrease, reduce
14. 户外活动(hùwài huódòng): outdoor activity
15. 生物钟(shēngwùzhōng): biological clock
16. 在一定程度上(zài yīdìng chéngdù shàng): to a certain extent
17. 对...有影响(duì... yǒuyǐngxiǎn): have an impact on ...
18. 取消(qǔxiāo): cancel
19. 必要(bìyào): necessary
20. 过时(guòshí): outdated, obsolete

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In this English episode I talk about the history of time zones in China and the universal use of Beijing time now for the entire country, which spans 5 international time zones.

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In this Mandarin episode, I explore why China only uses Beijing time despite the fact that it spans across 5 different time zones, compare China's time zone use with that of continental USA, and talk about East Coast bias in both China and the US.

Some useful words:

1. 东八区(dōng bā qū): East 8 Zone (UTC/GMT +8 hrs) (Beijing Time is GMT +8hr) 
2. 全球(quán qíu): worldwide, global
3. 按...划分(àn... huàfēn): categorize, divide ... according to
4. 标准(biāozhǔn): standard
5. 根据(gēn jù): based on, according to 
6. 横跨(héng kuà): span across (geographically)
7. 统一(tǒngyī): unified, uniform
8. 绝大部分(jué dà bùfèn): the vast majority
9. 幅员辽阔(fúyuán liáokuò): vast size (e.g. of a country, geographic regions)
10. 作为(zuòwéi): as
11. 合理(hé lǐ): reasonable 
12. 顺便(shùnbiàn): by the way
13. 人口(rénkǒu): population
14. 赛事(sàishì): competition (e.g. sporting)
15. 报道(bàodào): reporting
16. 重视(zhòngshì): to attach importance to, to value 
17. 照顾(zhàogù): take care of,  show consideration
18. 观众(guān zhòng): audience
19. 总决赛 (zong jué sài): final
20. 东岸偏见(dōng àn piān jiàn): east coast bias

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This English episode covers the Chinese translation of Halloween, a short recap of Halloween origin and tradition,  the Chinese version of Halloween and whether Halloween is celebrated in China. 

Happy Halloween!

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Hi everyone! Today's episode delves into the significance of March 15th in China, designated as Consumer Rights Day. It aims to heighten awareness about consumer protection, shedding light on issues like deceptive marketing, subpar product quality, and exorbitant pricing. This year's examples range from the sale of inferior food products to overpriced items with false health claims. It reminds consumers to stay vigilant, understand their rights, and report any violations. Despite regulatory efforts, loopholes persist. There is always a need for ongoing consumer education and awareness. 

Thank you for tuning in! Due to space constraints, I'm unable to include the transcript here. However, if you'd like a copy, please feel free to email me, and I'll happily send it your way. Additionally, if you have any questions or comments, don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you all a fantastic day!

It's truly an honor to know that my podcast can provide help and value to you. Your support and engagement mean the world to me. If there's anything specific you'd like to hear more about or any topics you think would be beneficial, please don't hesitate to reach out. Thank you for being part of this journey with me!

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In this Mandarin Halloween special, I talk about the meaning of Halloween in Mandarin, its traditions and customs, and relate the festival to the origins and traditions of the Chinese Ghost Festival and the Chinese New Year's Eve. Have a fun Halloween!

Some useful words:

1. 翻译 Fānyì: translate, translation
2. 根据gēnjù: based on, according to
3. 结束jiéshù: end, fiinish
4. 移民yímín: immigrate, immigration, immigrant
5. 死去的灵魂sǐqù de línghún: dead soul
6. 鬼魂guǐhún: ghost spirit
7. 面具miànjù: mask (for halloween or theater arts)
8. 服装fúzhuāng: clothing, attire
9. 其实qíshí: actually, in reality
10. 起源qǐyuán: origin
11. 地府dìfǔ: underground world, hell
12. 世间shìjiān: living world
13. 祭祖jì zǔ: worship ancestor
14. 放松fàngsōng: relax
15. 享受生活xiǎngshòu shēnghuó: enjoy life
16. 游荡Yóudàng:  wander
17. 吓走xià zǒu: scare away
18. 怪物guàiwù: monster
19. 不过buguò:  however, that said
20. 南瓜nánguā：pumpkin

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In this English episode, I talk about Huoguo the Chinese hot pot: what is it? How to have a hot pot meal? And why is it popular among Chinese across the world?

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In this Mandarin episode, I talk about 火锅 (huǒguō) the Chinese Hot Pot: What do the name characters mean? What consist of a 火锅 (huǒguō) meal? And why do Chinese people all over the world love 火锅 (huǒguō)?

Here are some useful words: 

1. 加热Jiārè: add heat, heat up
2. 锅底guō dǐ: soup base
3. 清汤qīngtāng: clear soup/broth
4. 麻辣málà: numbing spicy
5. 食材shícái: "food material," ingredients
6. 煮开/煮熟zhǔ kāi/zhǔ shú: Boiled/cooked
7. 切成薄片qiè chéng bópiàn:  sliced to thin pieces
8. 蘸酱zhàn jiàng Dipping sauce
9. 配调料pèi tiáoliào: concoct seasoning
10. 老少皆宜 lǎoshào jiē yí: suitable, enjoyable for all ages

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This English episode presents a brief introduction to Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok: the name, logo, what people do on Douyin, and so on.

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In this Mandarin episode, I talk about 抖音 (dǒu yīn) the Chinese TikTok:  why is it called douyin? What do people do on douyin? And why does China have its own version of TikTok?

Useful words for comprehension

1. 标志 biāozhì: logo, sign
2. 音符yīnfú: (music) note
3. 地位dìwèi: status
4. 娱乐生活方式yúlè shēnghuó fāngshì: Entertainment lifestyle
5. 短视频 duǎn shìpín: short videos
6. 刷抖音shuā dǒu yīn: scrolling TikTok
7. 动作dòngzuò: movement
8. 拍抖音pāi dǒu yīn: shot TikTok (videos)
9. 商家shāngjiā: merchant, store
10. 直播zhíbò: live stream
11. 做广告zuò guǎnggào: advertise
12. 中国版/国际版 zhōngguó bǎn/guójì bǎn: Chinese version/international version
13. 国外企业guówài qǐyè: foreign company
14. 数据互通shùjù hùtōng: data sharing and communication
15. 内容nèiróng: content

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This English episode explores the meaning of 卷 (juǎn) in two contexts: school and work. As  the Chinese society increasingly forces its people into various rat races from cradle to grave, I wish we can all live a life of our own of love, intention and enjoyment.

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This Mandarin episode explores the meaning of 卷 (juǎn) in two contexts: school and work. As  the Chinese society increasingly forces its people into various rat races from cradle to grave, I wish we can all live a life of our own of love, intention and enjoyment.

1. 补课/补习班 bǔ kè/bǔ xí bān: cram school, after-school tutoring
2. 努力程度 nǔ lì chéng dù: degree of effort (how hard you work)
3. 被别人落在后面: left behind by other people
4. 内卷(same as 卷)  nèi juǎn: forced into the rat race
5. 成绩or分数 chéng jì/fēn shù: exam results; grades
6. 考入kǎo rù: enter (a school) after passing a competitive exam 
7. 家庭负担 jiā tíng fù dān: family burden
8. 取缔 qǔ dì: to ban, prohibit, crack down
9. 不断地 bù duàn de: continuously, constantly
10. 保证 bǎo zhèng: guarantee
11. 竞争 jìng zhēng: compete, competition
12. 结果 jié guǒ: result. outcome

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In this episode, I read an airport announcement (regular speed and slow speed) and go over 10 useful vocabulary and expressions. The script is as follows.

尊敬的旅客朋友们，我们抱歉地通知您，您乘坐的国航4879次，飞往上海的航班由于暴风雪，被临时取消了。在此我们深表歉意。新的具体起飞时间待定。我们将密切关注天气预报。请您在候机大厅安静等候新的广播通知。中国国家航空公司将安排大家在首都机场的天水大酒店入住一晚。我们会尽快通知您明天新的起飞时间。如需其他帮助，请与我们联系。谢谢您的配合理解。

1. 尊敬zūn jìng： honorable，respectful
2. 抱歉 bào qiàn:  apologize，feel sorry, apologetic
3. 乘坐chéng zuò:  ride (such as plane, train, bus, car and other means of transportation)
4. 待定 dài dìng: TBD
5. 密切关注mì qiè guān zhù: watch closely
6. 深表歉意 shēn biǎo qiàn yì:  deeply felt apology
7. 临时 lín shí： temporary
8. 候机（大）厅hòu jī dà tīng: airport departure terminal
9. 入住rù zhù:  to check in at a hotel
10. 配合理解 lǐ jiě pèi hé:  cooperative and understanding

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This Mandarin episode explores why table tennis is so popular in China. After the reading, I pick out and explain some useful vocabulary and expressions for you in Mandarin and English. 

随着中国的经济发展水平的提高，中国大众有了更多的时间投入到自己的业余活动中。中国人最热衷的娱乐运动/活动之一就是乒乓球。

乒乓球被称为中国的“国球”，首先是因为在中国它有广大的群众基础，几亿人会打乒乓球，四、五千万人经常打乒乓球。其次，乒（乓球）超（级）联赛和全国各地的业余比赛给国民带来欢乐和享受；最后， 乒乓球是中国拿到的第一个体育世界冠军。因此，中国人非常骄傲，从此乒乓球开始在中国快速发展，爱好的人也越来越多。民族自豪感。

乒乓球的流行是因为乒乓球设备简单，容易普及。跟足球、篮球等不同，乒乓球不需要很大的场地就可以打。你只需要一个桌子， 一个球。和两个球拍。中国的公园里一般都有乒乓球桌。在各个城镇的活动中心也都有室内的乒乓球设施。而且，乒乓球也很容易打。 不是一个很难上手的运动。老少皆宜：从老人到孩子都能打。可以说是一项亲朋好友的聚会运动。

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In this episode (a mix of English and Mandarin explanation), I talk about the Chinese proverb 磨刀不误砍柴工 (mó dāo bú wù kǎn chái gōng): (literally) honing your ax will not hold up your wood-chopping job. The proverb tells us that the time we spend on improving our tools and taking care of ourselves in preparation for the job is not wasted. It will pay off in way of increased productivity. 

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Hello everyone, welcome to the latest episode of "5 Minute Mandarin." Today, I want to chat with you about my experiences with driving in the United States. As you may know, having a car is essential in most parts of the US, unlike in China where I never felt the need to drive. Upon moving to the US, I relied on public transportation and walking, as my first city had good infrastructure for both. However, when I found a job in a smaller town, owning a car became necessary. So, I decided to learn to drive, bought a used Toyota Camry, and practiced with friends and instructors. After some preparation, I took the driving test and passed, although there was a small mishap where I accidentally drove my car into a ditch. Luckily, kind locals helped me out, and I made it to my exam on time. This experience left me grateful for the generosity of others and taught me the importance of community support. 

Hope you like my story. Due to the length of the passage, please email me if you would like a transcript of this episode. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to contact me. 

Wish everyone a very nice day!

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In this English episode, we talk about the meaning of 学霸 (a top academic) and its opposite 学渣。

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In this Mandarin episode, we explore what is 学霸 (xué bà) a top student in academics (opposite word is 学渣 xué zhā).

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In this English episode, I talk about the buzzword 社畜: its translation, use, and my take on the word.

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