Language notes

Chinese as a System: Language Notes

Language notes on Chinese grammar, HSK, translation, text and Chinese teaching methodology.

2026-05-17

Chinese as a System, Not a Set of Phrases

A note on why grammar, vocabulary and translation should be explained together.

2026-05-17

HSK Without Rush: Why Order Matters

A short piece about pacing, repetition and durable progress in exam preparation.

What the Notes Are For

Language notes give a concise entry into one specific question: a grammatical construction, the order of HSK preparation, a translation choice or a teaching observation. They are not simplified rule lists, but a first step toward books, publications and detailed materials.

Each note should clarify the term, provide context and point to reliable material for further reading. New texts are published only after facts, examples and wording have been checked editorially.