This revolutionary new dictionary is designed to give you a comprehensive introduction to Chinese in a completely new way. It covers all the vocabulary learners will need in their first years of study and gives unique guidance to the grammar and usage of the language. This dictionary is created specifically for beginners: colour headwords and translations; no confusing abbreviations; warning symbols show potential problem areas. There are thousands of example phrases drawn from real-life situations. Full romanization of the Chinese text with Chinese script following in simplified characters. Includes a guide to how to write Chinese characters. Full guidance on the pronunciation of Mandarin Chinese is given. Word patterns and constructions from language areas such as dates, and telling time are grouped together to show similarities and differences.