How to Say "Yes" in Chinese (Mandarin)

Category: Greetings & Basics

是

Shì

Pronunciation: shir

How to Pronounce "Yes" in Mandarin

The Chinese word for 'Yes' is 是, pronounced Shì in pinyin notation. To say it in English approximation: 'shir'.

Breaking Down the Characters

Character	Pinyin	Notes
是	Shì	Character component

Example Usage in Context

English	Chinese	Pinyin
I want to say 'Yes'	是	Shì
How do you say Yes?	"Yes"怎么说？	"Yes" zěnme shuō?
Please say Yes slowly	请慢慢说是	Qǐng màn màn shuō Shì

Understanding Mandarin Tones

Mandarin Chinese uses four tones plus a neutral tone. Getting the tone right is essential - the same syllable with a different tone can mean a completely different word. The pinyin Shì includes tone markers to guide correct pronunciation.

Tips for Learning Chinese Pronunciation

Listen to native speakers on apps like HelloChinese or Duolingo
Practice the four tones separately before combining them in words
Record yourself and compare to native pronunciation
The pinyin system is the standard romanisation - learn it once and use it everywhere

Take Your Mandarin Further

🗣️

italki — Learn Mandarin with a Native Teacher

Book 1-on-1 Mandarin lessons online from $8/hr. Over 1,000 Chinese teachers available for all levels.

Find a Teacher →

🔒

NordVPN — Essential for China Travellers

Google, WhatsApp, Instagram and most Western apps are blocked in China. NordVPN reliably bypasses the Great Firewall. Install before you arrive.

Get NordVPN →