Local Lingo

Language is the road map of a culture. In this column, we will invite expats to introduce their favorite Chinese words, phrases, idioms, poems and more in a one-minute video. We hope this column will be a window through which you can better understand Chinese culture, mindset and wit. Have something to share? Please contact juliezhu@shanghaidaily.com.

Art & Culture

'Local lingo: Express yourself!' Episode 71: 世上无难事只怕有心人 (Shi Shang Wu Nan Shi Zhi Pa You Xin Ren)

Chahinez, from Algeria, hopes more people will be able to draw positive energy from this saying, just as she has, and find continuous motivation to keep moving forward.

7m 0

Art & Culture

'Local lingo: Express yourself!' Episode 70: 前程似锦 (Qian Cheng Si Jin)

Sabrina, from Pakistan, introduces an idiom in Chinese during this graduation season, which means "Future shines bright."

2024-07-12 13:03 0

Art & Culture

'Local lingo: Express yourself!' Episode 69: 有你真好 (You Ni Zhen Hao)

Irfan Jo from Indonesia shared a touching Chinese phrase that encapsulates the sentiment of gratitude towards those who quietly stand by our side during pivotal moments.

2024-07-04 17:40 0

Art & Culture

'Local lingo: Express yourself!' Episode 68: 哎呀 (Ai Ya)

When chatting with her Chinese friends, Shawntaye from America often uses "ai ya" to express amazement, annoyance, and admiration.

2024-06-27 16:34 0

Art & Culture

'Local lingo: Express yourself!' Episode 67: 为者常成,行者常至 (Wei Zhe Chang Cheng, Xing Zhe Chang Zhi)

The Chinese proverb, originating from the Spring and Autumn Period, has become an inspiration for Victoria Almeida-Tang, a Brazilian working in Shanghai, to pursue her dream.

2024-06-21 16:09 0

Art & Culture

'Local lingo: Express yourself!' Episode 66: 吃瓜群众(Chi Gua Qun Zhong)

This idiom evokes an image of individuals who take pleasure in observing the drama of others from a distance, much like spectators enjoying watermelon while watching a show.

2024-06-14 10:34 0

Art & Culture

'Local lingo: Express yourself!' Episode 65: 蚌埠住啦 (Beng Bu Zhu La)

Before the Dragon Boat Festival, Ole and his teammates paddled the misty waters of Bengbu in Anhui Province. Ole also learned a popular Chinese expression during his experience.

2024-06-07 16:22 0

Art & Culture

'Local lingo: Express yourself!' Episode 64:乱七八糟 (Luan Qi Ba Zao)

Let's listen to the Filipino girl to explain this word. Remember, we should try to maintain 'well-organized' at any moment.

2024-05-29 23:00 0

Art & Culture

'Local lingo: Express yourself!' Episode 63: 老婆 (Lao Po)

Carlos, hailing from Peru and happily married to a Chinese wife, once affectionately referred to his wife as "Wai Po" (grandma) instead of "Lao Po" (wife).

2024-05-23 20:16 0