Mandarin Rules
Catching the Mouse
What is the best method for learning Mandarin? Well, there isn’t one. But there are a number of options open to suit various levels, reasons for learning, and lifestyles. Ever
Guess What? Cantonese Rules, Too
It’s easy to forget that not far behind the most widely spoken Chinese language is the lovable Cantonese, of which most of us know of, and often hear, but are
Beware of Long Vacations
Mostly, this column has been about how grueling yet immensely fulfilling it is to study Mandarin. Not this time. Instead, Julie focuses on how taking a break can impact your
Here Comes The Much Dreaded HSK…
Most of us know about the HSK, but how many of us have actually taken it or are aiming to in the future? Our language enthusiast speaks of her qualms
A Foreign Correspondent’s Report
After leaving China for a trip, our language enthusiast discovered that even in Europe, there were to be plenty of encounters with the wonderful and complicated Mandarin. Having spent a
The Triple Challenge
The trials & tribulations of learning a foreign language can be overwhelming. With Mandarin’s intricate system of symbols, this means an essential trio with each new word. As a student
Why bother?
Learning a language takes time. But once you do, you can enjoy the perks, like conversing with locals, getting jokes, & taking pleasure from individual cultural expressions. For me, learning
Where On Earth Is Fulan?
Pronunciation is a key part of learning any language. Julie Axelsson speaks of her recent findings with dialectical pronunciation differences and what to do if a mishap takes place. Talking
Learning, Fast and Slow
Whether you’re a fast learner or a slow learner, you have to do what’s right for you if you want to become fluent in Mandarin. slow & steady is just
My Language Journey, and Yours
We all know how difficult learning or familiarizing with mandarin can be. Language enthusiast Julie Axelsson speaks of the highs & lows of interaction with our lingua franca. Having dedicated
