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Will Kirkby

Will Kirkby

I love exploring different languages, cultures, and places and have spent most of the past decade moving between China, Taiwan, and Thailand. My other key hobby is sampling tasty and unusual morsels!

šŸ“ Asia
ā€˜Saving Face’: Mandarin to Help you Survive
Mandarin

ā€˜Saving Face’: Mandarin to Help you Survive

In Chinese culture, saving face is a vital part of maintaining dignity, respect, and social harmony. It influences how people communicate, resolve conflict, and build relationships.

  • Will Kirkby
Will Kirkby Aug 8, 2025 • 6 min read
Learn Chinese Words and Phrases for Navigating China's Major Festivals
Mandarin

Learn Chinese Words and Phrases for Navigating China's Major Festivals

An insight into China's major festivals and the linguistic nuances which arose through the customs, food and traditions displayed during these special times.

  • Will Kirkby
Will Kirkby Dec 13, 2024 • 10 min read
Chinese Tea Culture: How Has it Influenced the Mandarin Language?
Mandarin

Chinese Tea Culture: How Has it Influenced the Mandarin Language?

Tea is integral to Chinese culture. Through learning Mandarin, we can understand its cultural importance, wider philosophical concepts, and its esteemed history in the Middle Kingdom.

  • Will Kirkby
Will Kirkby Jul 5, 2024 • 7 min read
Learning Mandarin: Unpacking Chinese Names for World Countries
Mandarin

Learning Mandarin: Unpacking Chinese Names for World Countries

Not only do country names teach us new vocabulary and expressions, but they also provide insight into China's history and global perspectives.

  • Will Kirkby
Will Kirkby May 31, 2024 • 7 min read
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