How to Say ‘Can I use cash?’ in Simplified Chinese
可以用现金吗?
kě yǐ yòng xiàn jīn ma
[kuh-yee yohng shyen-jin ma]
🇨🇳 In China: Cash is still accepted in many places, but in practice phone payment is often the default in China. In small shops or stalls, asking this can be more useful than assuming cash is easiest.
Phrase Breakdown
可以
kě yǐ
[kuh-yee]
can; may
A polite way to ask if something is possible or permitted.
这里可以刷卡吗?
Can I use a bank card here?
用现金
yòng xiàn jīn
use cash
Refers to paying with paper money or coins.
我想用现金。
I want to use cash.
Words in this phrase
用
yòng
[yohng]
use
Means to use something as a tool, method, or payment type.
我可以用手机付款。
I can use my phone to pay.
现金
xiàn jīn
[shyen-jin]
cash
Physical money such as bills and coins.
我今天只带了现金。
I only brought cash today.
吗?
ma
question particle
Makes it a polite question.
可以用现金吗?
Can I use cash?
Words in this phrase
吗
ma
[ma]
question particle
Placed at the end of a statement to turn it into a yes-no question.
这里能停车吗?
Can I park here?
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 speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
What Learners Are Saying
“Shanghai business dinners require real Mandarin skills. This app’s scenario-based approach meant I could keep up with clients after just a month of practice.”
Ryan M., 36, Consultant
“Spent three months in Taiwan and this app was my lifeline. The tonal practice with real scenarios helped me sound less like a textbook and more like a person.”
Laura H., 28, Photographer
“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