Essential survival phrases

✅ Updated May 2026

A few words go a long way and earn goodwill. Hello — 你好 (nǐ hǎo); thank you — 谢谢 (xièxie); no need / no thanks — 不用了 (bú yòng le); how much? — 多少钱 (duōshao qián); I don't understand — 我听不懂 (wǒ tīng bu dǒng); too expensive — 太贵了 (tài guì le); where is the toilet? — 洗手间在哪里 (xǐshǒujiān zài nǎlǐ); no spicy — 不要辣 (bú yào là). Most people are patient and happy to help when you try.