Read and write basic Chinese vowels

Chinese has four tones. Each tone is shown by a mark above the vowel:

Here are the six main Chinese vowels (a, o, e, i, u, ü) written with all four tones:

When you see a vowel with a tone mark, read it by:

1. Say the vowel sound (a, o, e, i, u, or ü)
2. Apply the tone pattern (high, rising, dipping, or falling)

Worked Example:

• mā — Say "ma" with the first tone (high and flat). This means "mother."
• má — Say "ma" with the second tone (rising). This means "hemp."
• mǎ — Say "ma" with the third tone (dipping). This means "horse."
• mà — Say "ma" with the fourth tone (falling). This means "scold."

To write Chinese vowels correctly:

1. Write the vowel (a, o, e, i, u, or ü)
2. Add the tone mark above the vowel:
   • First tone: a flat line (¯) → ā
   • Second tone: a rising line (´) → á
   • Third tone: a dipping shape (ˇ) → ǎ
   • Fourth tone: a falling line (`) → à

Practice writing these vowels:

Copy and complete the table by adding the missing tones:

Read and write these syllables that combine initials with vowels:

• Chinese vowels are called finals or irabu
• Every vowel is spoken with one of four tones
• The tone mark is written above the vowel
• The four tones are: high (1), rising (2), dipping (3), and falling (4)
• To read: say the vowel + use the correct tone pattern
• To write: write the vowel + add the correct tone mark

In Tanzania, if you travel to China for business or to visit friends, you will need to read and write Chinese vowels with tones to read restaurant menus, street signs, and prices. For example, knowing that mā (mother) sounds different from mà (to scold) helps you understand spoken Chinese correctly when shopping at a market in Dar es Salaam or when talking to Chinese traders in Arusha.