Learning how to ask for advice or guidance is an essential part of language acquisition. If you’re interested in knowing how to say “What should I do?” in Chinese, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways of expressing this question, providing helpful tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
In various situations, particularly when communicating with teachers, bosses, or other individuals in positions of authority, it is important to use formal language. Here are a few formal ways to ask “What should I do?” in Chinese:
1. 我应该怎么办？(Wǒ yīnggāi zěnme bàn?)
Translation: What should I do?
This is a commonly used and straightforward way to ask for advice in formal settings. It’s a safe choice that effectively conveys your intention to seek guidance.
2. 请问我该怎么办？(Qǐngwèn wǒ gāi zěnme bàn?)
Translation: Excuse me, what should I do?
Adding “请问” (qǐngwèn) at the beginning of the sentence is a polite way to initiate the conversation formally. It shows respect towards the person you are seeking advice from.
Informal Expressions:
When you are talking to friends, family, or acquaintances who are of the same age or social standing, you can use more casual language to ask for suggestions. Here are a few informal ways to ask “What should I do?” in Chinese:
1. 我该怎么办呢？(Wǒ gāi zěnme bàn ne?)
Translation: What should I do?
This is a simple yet effective way to ask for advice in everyday conversations. By adding “呢” (ne) at the end of the sentence, you create a friendlier and more casual tone.
2. 你觉得我应该怎么办？(Nǐ juéde wǒ yīnggāi zěnme bàn?)
Translation: What do you think I should do?
This question allows the other person to share their opinion and provide guidance casually. It fosters a sense of camaraderie and encourages interactive discussions.
Tips for Asking in Different Scenarios:
1. Going Beyond Direct Questioning:
Instead of just asking “What should I do?” in a straightforward manner, you can also try expressing your predicament or explaining the situation before seeking advice. This helps the person understand your situation better and give more personalized suggestions.
Example:
我迷路了，你觉得我应该怎么办？(Wǒ mílù le, nǐ juéde wǒ yīnggāi zěnme bàn?)
Translation: I’m lost, what do you think I should do?
2. Adding Contextual Information:
Providing additional information surrounding your query can be beneficial. It allows the person you’re talking to provide more accurate and tailored advice. Sharing relevant details helps them gauge the situation better.
Example:
我有两个工作机会，一个在上海，另一个在北京。你认为我应该怎么办？(Wǒ yǒu liǎng gè gōngzuò jīhuì, yīgè zài Shànghǎi, lìng yīgè zài Běijīng. Nǐ rènwéi wǒ yīnggāi zěnme bàn?)
Translation: I have two job opportunities, one in Shanghai and the other in Beijing. What do you think I should do?
Regional Variations:
While Mandarin Chinese is the standardized form of the language, there might be some regional variations in how people express the question “What should I do?” In general, the formal and informal expressions covered earlier will work in most regions. However, you might encounter slight differences in vocabulary or phrasing depending on the area you’re in. It’s always interesting to explore and appreciate these regional nuances when you have the opportunity.
Conclusion:
Asking for advice is an important part of communication in any language, and learning the ways to express “What should I do?” in Chinese is immensely useful. By using the formal or informal expressions mentioned above, and utilizing contextual information where appropriate, you can easily seek guidance from both formal and informal acquaintances. Remember to adapt the formality of your phrasing based on your relationship with the person you are conversing with.
No matter where you are in China or in a Chinese-speaking community, showing your willingness to seek advice and guidance in the local language will undoubtedly leave a positive impression. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be confidently seeking advice in Chinese!
