Learn Chinese Chinese Tones and Pronunciation 2

Question 1

In Mandarin, what happens to the third tone when followed by another third tone?

Accepted Answer

It becomes second tone

Answer

When two third-tone syllables appear together, the first changes to a second (rising) tone.

Question 2

What does the pinyin letter 'x' represent in Mandarin pronunciation?

Accepted Answer

A sound like English 'sh' but softer

Answer

The Mandarin 'x' is a soft palatal fricative, similar to a softened 'sh' sound, not the English 'ks' sound.

Question 3

Which of these is the correct pronunciation of 去 (qù, to go)?

Accepted Answer

chü (like 'chewy')

Answer

去 (qù) is pronounced roughly like 'chü' with a falling fourth tone, similar to 'chewy' without the 'ee'.

Question 4

What does the pinyin 'zh' represent?

Accepted Answer

A retroflex sound like 'j' in 'judge'

Answer

Pinyin 'zh' is a retroflex affricate similar to the 'j' in 'judge', made with the tongue curled back.

Question 5

Which tone has the highest and flattest pitch contour in Mandarin?

Accepted Answer

First tone

Answer

The first tone is high and flat, maintained at the top of the speaker's pitch range throughout.

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