Chinese Months and Dates for Beginners
Learn Mandarin months, dates, birthdays, and date order.
Useful phrases
今天几月几号？
Jīntiān jǐ yuè jǐ hào?
What is today's date?
今天五月十三号。
Jīntiān Wǔ yuè shísān hào.
Today is May 13.
我的生日是六月一号。
Wǒ de shēngrì shì Liù yuè yī hào.
My birthday is June 1.
How to use this pattern
Chinese dates go from large to small: year, month, day. Months are number + 月.
Practice routine
Practice your birthday with “我的生日是……”.
Common mistake
Do not think in English month names. January is simply 一月.
FAQ
What is the difference between 号 and 日?
Both mean date. 号 is more conversational; 日 is more formal.
How do I answer 几月几号?
Use a structure like “五月十三号”.
Keep learning
HSK 1-2 · Ordering coffee
How to Order Coffee in Chinese
Learn the most useful Mandarin phrases for ordering coffee, with pinyin and English meaning.
HSK 1-2 · Directions
How to Ask for Directions in Chinese
Learn Mandarin phrases for finding subway stations, places, and directions while traveling.
HSK 1 · Time
How to Tell Time in Chinese
Learn how to say times, today, tomorrow, and now in Mandarin Chinese.