HSK 1·Question words
Chinese Question Words for Beginners
Learn Mandarin question words: who, what, where, when, why, and how.
Useful phrases
你是谁？
Nǐ shì shéi?
Who are you?
这是什么？
Zhè shì shénme?
What is this?
你去哪儿？
Nǐ qù nǎr?
Where are you going?
How to use this pattern
Chinese question words usually stay where the answer would appear, not always at the beginning.
Practice routine
Ask “这是什么？” about nearby objects, then answer with “这是……”.
Common mistake
Do not copy English question word order directly into Mandarin.
FAQ
How do I distinguish 什么 and 哪儿?
什么 asks what; 哪儿 asks where.
How do I answer 为什么?
Use “因为……” to answer why.
Keep learning
HSK 1 · Introductions
How to Introduce Yourself in Mandarin
Use simple Mandarin to talk about your name, country, work, and interests.
HSK 1 · Greetings
Basic Chinese Greetings for Beginners
Learn beginner Mandarin greetings such as hello, good morning, and how are you.
HSK 1 · Numbers and prices
Chinese Numbers and Prices for Beginners
Learn Mandarin phrases for asking prices, hearing prices, and confirming quantities.