How to Say ‘Ms. Emily Smith’ in Traditional Chinese
約翰・史密斯先生
xiān shēng
[syen-shung]
🇹🇼 In Taiwan: With customers, adding [先生] after a man's name is standard polite service language in Taiwan. For a woman, staff might use [小姐], though some places now avoid it unless they're sure it's appropriate.
Phrase Breakdown
先生
xiān shēng
[syen-shung]
Mr.; sir
A respectful title for a man, often placed after a surname or full name in Mandarin.
約翰・史密斯 先生 的訂位是今晚七點。
Mr. John Smith’s reservation is tonight at 7 p.m.
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
“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
“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
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker