How to Say ‘You are my type.’ in Simplified Chinese
你是我的菜。
nǐ shì wǒ de cài
[nee shir waw duh cài]
🇨🇳 In China: 菜 literally means "dish", so this is slangy and lighthearted — like saying someone is your cup of tea. Common among young people and online.
Phrase Breakdown
你是
nǐ shì
you are
你 (nǐ, you) + 是 (shì, to be). 是 is a firm falling fourth tone.
你是老师吗？
Are you a teacher?
Words in this phrase
你
nǐ
[nee]
you
The informal or neutral word for “you,” suitable for peers or casual conversation.
如果对方和你年纪差不多，可以说“认识你”。
If the other person is about your age, you can say “nice to meet you” with 你.
是
shì
[shir]
to be; is; are
A linking verb meaning 'to be.' It connects a subject with identity or description.
她是医生。
She is a doctor.
我的菜。
wǒ de cài
my type (literally 'my dish')
我的 (my) + 菜 (cài, dish or food). 我的菜 is slang for 'my type'. Say 菜 with a sharp falling tone.
他不是我的菜。
He's not my type.
Words in this phrase
我
wǒ
[waw]
me; I
The first-person pronoun meaning me or I, depending on sentence position.
这次谈话对我帮助很大。
This conversation was very helpful to me.
的
de
[duh]
's; possessive particle
Links a person or thing to what belongs to them, like your in English.
你的笑容很有感染力。
Your smile is very infectious.
菜
cài
[cài]
one's type
Literally 'dish'; slang for the kind of person you are attracted to.
他不是我的菜。
He's not my type.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Shanghai business dinners require real Mandarin skills. This app’s situation-based approach meant I could keep up with clients after just a month of practice.”
Ryan M., 36, Consultant
“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”
Alex M., 42, Software Engineer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager