… easier for Zhonglish speakers to understand the accents of wàidìrén (外地人 = Chinese from outside the big city), that is. The hypothesis would be something like this:
Since the first thing to vary in non-Beijing Mandarin is often the tone on a word [unsubstantiated impression -- it would be cool to know of an actual [...]
On the rhythms and tones of a foul and trendy pun — yes, another dead horse post
Warning: Despite the innocent voices of some of the main actors, Beijing Sounds was never intended as a family blog. Even fluffy animals won’t soften this hard fact, so read on at your own peril and heed the check-with-your-doctor [...]
On how English messes with even the kids’ Mandarin
After months of exile in Minneapolis, Siberia, the nominal proprietor of Beijing Sounds now has concrete plans to return to the main studio location in beautiful suburban Shàngdì in the northwest outskirts of the capital city. The mood surrounding this semi-permanent move, to take place around the [...]
On maintaining political correctness when other people’s languages still sound funny
New Mexico, USA — Christmas, 1978. In the wrapping paper-strewn living room of grandma’s house, after the midday dinner, the adults are engaged in the safe banter of nostalgia, the children, including nine-year-old syz, engrossed in the newly acquired toys, tools and trinkets.
There is no [...]
On proper vocabulary, rethinking the third tone, and the Hànzì thought police
It was still before 8 a.m. when the staccato cacophony of metal on tile shocked Mr. Zhao out of bed.
Mere mortal sleepers might have been awakened long ago on this Shangdi Saturday morning, what with the constant pattering of feet, the grinding drone of [...]
On YU Alternatives — anyone have recommendations?
Here’s a bit of the guest lecture today at YU:
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