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For HSK learners embarking on their Mandarin Chinese journey, staring at a page of characters can be intimidating. But you don't need to know 3,000 words to start speaking.

Mastering a set of essential "survival phrases" provides a strong foundation. These 10 phrases introduce key HSK 1 vocabulary and grammar structures that you will use from day one to exam day.

1. 你好 (Nǐ hǎo) - Hello

HSK Level: 1 Usage: The universal greeting.

Cultural Tip: While valid, native speakers rarely say "Ni hao" to close friends (they might just ask "Have you eaten?"). However, for beginners and formal settings, it is perfect. If addressing a teacher or elder, use 您好 (Nín hǎo) to show respect.

Learn More: Want to sound more natural? Check out our guide on mastering "Ni Hao" and other Chinese greetings.

2. 谢谢 (Xièxie) - Thank you

HSK Level: 1 Usage: To express gratitude. Note the neutral tone on the second syllable (xièxie).

Grammar Point: To say "No, thank you," you don't say "Bù xièxie." You say 不用谢 (Bú yòng xiè) - "No need to thank."

HSK Application: Use this to thank your examiner or teacher at the end of an interview.

3. 对不起 (Duìbuqǐ) - I'm sorry

HSK Level: 2 Usage: A heavy apology for mistakes or inconveniences.

Cultural Note: Beginners often overuse this. If you just bumped into someone slightly, or you are asking a waiter for attention, use 不好意思 (Bù hǎo yì si) instead.

Learn More: Learn the difference in our guide on the secrets of saying sorry and accepting apologies.

4. 我不明白 (Wǒ bù míngbái) - I don't understand

HSK Level: 2 Usage: Essential for stopping a conversation when you get lost.

Vocabulary Expansion:

• 听不懂 (Tīng bu dǒng) - I listened but didn't understand (HSK 2)
• 不知道 (Bù zhīdào) - I don't know (the fact)

Learn More: There are many ways to say "I don't understand" depending on why you are confused.

5. 请再说一遍 (Qǐng zài shuō yí biàn) - Please say that again

HSK Level: 3 Usage: A polite request for repetition. This is a lifesaver in the HSK speaking exam or listening comprehension practice.

Grammar Focus:

• 再 (zài) indicates a future repetition (Do it again).
• 遍 (biàn) is the measure word for the "course of an action" (one time through).

6. 这个多少钱？(Zhège duōshao qián?) - How much is this?

HSK Level: 2 Usage: The golden phrase for shopping and bargaining.

HSK Application: To understand the answer, you must master your numbers! Learn More: Review our Essential Chinese Numbers Guide to make sure you pay the right price.

7. 我叫... (Wǒ jiào...) - My name is...

HSK Level: 1 Usage: Introducing yourself. Literally: "I am called..."

Grammar Extension:

• Q: 你叫什么名字？ (Nǐ jiào shénme míngzi?) - What is your name?
• A: 我叫大卫。 (Wǒ jiào Dàwèi.) - I am called David.

Learn More: Prepare your full intro with our Mastering Self-Introduction HSK Guide.

8. 我想要... (Wǒ xiǎng yào...) - I want/would like...

HSK Level: 2 Usage: Expressing desires or ordering food.

Grammar Point: Beginners often confuse 想 (Xiǎng - would like/think) and 要 (Yào - want/need). Using "Xiǎng yào" softens the tone, making it polite.

Learn More: Clear up the confusion with our Xiǎng vs. Yào comparison guide.

9. 你会说英语吗？(Nǐ huì shuō Yīngyǔ ma?) - Can you speak English?

HSK Level: 3 Usage: The safety net question.

Grammar Focus: 会 (Huì) means "can" in the sense of a learned skill (knowing how to do something), unlike 可以 (Kěyǐ) which implies permission.

10. 再见 (Zàijiàn) - Goodbye

HSK Level: 1 Usage: Farewell. Literally: "See [you] again."

Cultural Note: There are actually a dozen different ways to say goodbye, including "Màn zǒu" (Walk slowly/Take care) used when guests leave your home.

Incorporating These Phrases into Your HSK Study Routine

To effectively use these phrases in your HSK preparation:

1. Grammar Focus: Notice how questions use particles like 吗 (ma). Review our guide on Chinese Question Formations to understand the structure.
2. Writing Exercise: Try to write a short dialogue about shopping using "Duōshao qián" and "Wǒ xiǎng yào."
3. Speaking Drills: Use apps or a mirror to practice the tones. Remember, if you get the tone wrong on "Wǒ xiǎng yào" (I want), you might accidentally say something very different!

Conclusion: Building Blocks for HSK Success

Mastering these 10 easy Chinese phrases is more than just memorization; it's about laying a strong foundation for your HSK journey.

Don't be afraid to make mistakes—every error is a learning opportunity. If you are ready to move beyond these basics, check out our Ultimate Guide to Chinese Learning for Beginners.

加油 (jiāyóu) - Keep up the good work! With these phrases in your toolkit, you're well on your way to passing HSK 1.