In 12.7 in the languge section "use of yao etc.. Kaoshi is given as "rest". My understanding of these characters and the meaning is to take an exam??

Hi there barryh, I have just had a look through lesson 12.7 and found kaoshi in only one sentence. That being: 我们快要考试了, and in the translation given "test" is used as opposed to "rest". You are quite right in thinking that kaoshi is not "rest" but rather "test" or "to take a test/exam" I hope this helps and happy studies! - Lin Ping

It is comforting to know that in this Forum there is always someone to provide an explanation and to affer support when needed. (especially the two stalwarts Lin and Oggiedoggy). I am looking forward to a visit to Hong Kong and China March 2012 with my long time Chinese friend. When we are in Mandarin territory It will be strange for me to interpret (to a point) for a Chinaman who only speaks Cantonese!!!!

Barry your translating experience during your trip will be similar to my experience studying with my former girlfriend at Tsinghua University last spring: she is a Korean national who some people judged to have a Chinese countenance. When we were out and about, it was usually me talking to the waiter, ticket taker, asking directions, etc since I was more comfortable expressing myself in Chinese, but her listening comprehension was far better than mine! So often I would not be able to understand something and then she would translate to me, in English, only for me to pass it on, in Chinese! Hahaha it was quite a sight and only hope you have the same fun on your trip that we did!! What cities will you visit on the mainland?

Hi "OD" (interesting acronym!!!) I have had three visits to mainland China over the years and been to Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Xian, Guilin, Bao Shan, Guangzhou. Over the past several years I have obtained work visas for a family from Zhongshan and a few years ago I did all the documentation to obtain permanent residency for them so this time I will visit their family in Zhongshan and include a cruise to the Three Gorges. Seems like you are from Oz and live in China?

It seems to me that unit 4.10-Food characters has quite a few word that don't match the sounds given.