Tâi-gí Made Easy

Government of Taiwan in Tâi-gí

Fri, 22 May 2026 07:00:00 +0800

May 20 marked two years since Lai Ching-te took office. This week, we’ll learn some words to describe the system of the Taiwanese government in Tâi-gí, so that you can easily discuss current affairs with your friends or elders in Taiwan.

●Words to Know:
1. 總統 tsóng-thóng (n.) President
2. 行政院 Hîng-tsìng-īnn (n.) Executive Yuan
3. 立法院 Li̍p-huat-īnn (n.) Legislative Yuan
4. 司法院 su-huat-īnn (n.) Judicial Yuan
5. 考試院 khó-tshì-īnn (n.) Examination Yuan
6. 監察院 kàm-tshat-īnn (n.) Control Yuan

●Idiom of the week:
嚴官府出厚賊；嚴爸母出阿里不達

Giâm kuann-hú tshut kāu tsha̍t; giâm pē-bú tshut a-lí-put-ta̍t

(A harsh government produces cunning thieves; strict parents produce rebellious children.)

Waiting for the Rain to Stop

Fri, 15 May 2026 07:00:00 +0800

Do you have any loved one, whether it is your partner or a family member, whom you would like to spend your life with? Today, we are going to listen to a Tâi-gí song that explores this kind of deep bond: "等待雨散" (Waiting for the Rain to Stop) by Won Fu (旺福).

This warm and gentle song uses rain as a metaphor for life’s difficult moments, reminding us that love means staying together, holding hands, and patiently waiting for the clouds to clear. The songwriter, Min, once shared that he wrote the song while his father was battling cancer. When he finally recorded the track, he tried to sound happy, but his heart wasn't truly in it.

Looking back, he found that he had been immersed in grief, unaware that he had a bunch of friends who stayed with him and brought him joy. He eventually realised: “Instead of waiting for the rain to stop, why don’t we seize the day and have fun while holding the umbrella together?”

Let’s learn a few lines from the song, so that you can sing-along to this moving track.

Useful Tâi-gí for Mother's Day

Fri, 08 May 2026 07:00:00 +0800

Mother’s Day is only two days away! Though not a public holiday, Taiwan celebrates Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May each year. How heartwarming it would be to express our gratitude to mothers in Tâi-gí. This week, we’ll learn some related vocabulary and an idiom in Tâi-gí.

●Words to Know:
1. 阿母 a-bú (n.) mother
2. 後生 hāu-senn (n.) son
3. 查某囝 tsa-bóo-kiánn (n.) daughter
4. 偉大 uí-tāi (adj.) great, important, impactful
5. 有孝 iú-hàu (v.) to be a good son / daughter
6. 感謝 kám-siā (v.) to thank

●Idiom of the week:
生囝師仔，飼囝師傅。
Senn-kiánn sai-á, tshī kiánn sai-hū.
(The one who gives birth is a beginner; the one who raises the child is a master.)

Stock Investing in Tâi-gí

Fri, 01 May 2026 07:00:00 +0800

Earlier this week, Bloomberg reported that Taiwan’s stock market has overtaken Canada’s to become the world’s sixth-largest. Among companies in Taiwan, TSMC accounts for nearly 45% of the Taiwan Stock Exchange’s total market capitalisation. As people in Taiwan are making a fortune with stocks, this week, we’ll learn some related terms and an idiom in Tâi-gí.

●Words to Know:

1. 買股票 bé-kóo-phiò (v.) to buy stocks

2. 股東 kóo-tong (n.) stockholder

3. 交割 kau-kuah (v.) settlement (to exchange stocks and money)

4. 趁錢 thàn-tsînn (v.) to make money

5. 了錢 liáu-tsînn (v.) to lose money

●Idiom of the week:

食緊挵破碗。

Tsia̍h-kín lòng-phuà uánn.

(Eating in a hurry causes you to break the bowl.)

Taiwan Endemic Animals in Tâi-gí

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0800

As an island, Taiwan is full of endemic species that are unique and nowhere to be found in other places. This week, we’ll learn how to name some of the most frequently seen endemic animals in Taiwan in Tâi-gí.

●Words to Know:

1. 長尾山娘 tn̂g-bué-suann-niû (n.) Taiwan Blue Magpie

2. 臺灣烏熊 Tâi-uân-oo-hîm (n.) Formosan Black Bear

3. 烏雉雞 oo-thī-ke (n.) Mikado Pheasant

4. 台灣猴山仔 Tâi-uân-kâu-san-á (n.) Formosan Macaque

5. 阿里山塗龍 A-lí-san thôo-liông (n.) Alishan salamander

●Idiom of the week:

猴也會跋落樹跤。

Kâu iā ē pua̍h-lo̍h tshiū-kha.

(Even a monkey can fall from a tree.)

Talking about Tea in Tâi-gí

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0800

In Taiwan, tea is part of our everyday life. From morning oolong to late-night bubble tea, tea follows us through every part of the day. Tea is also how we treat our guests—we always make tea to show our welcome. This week, we’ll learn some Tâi-gí words and an idiom related to tea. So pour yourself a warm cup, take a deep breath, and let the fragrance guide us into today’s Tâi-gí lesson.

●Words to Know:

1. 茶米 tê-bí (n.) tea (leaves)

2. 啉茶 lim tê (v.) to drink tea

3. 紅茶 âng-tê (n.) black tea

4. 烏龍茶 oo-liông-tê (n.) Oolong tea

5. 泡茶 phàu tê (v.) to make tea

●Idiom of the week:

賣茶講茶芳，賣花講花紅。

Bē tê kóng tê phang, bē hue kóng hue âng.

(Those who sell tea praise its fragrance; those who sell flowers praise their redness.)

Plum Rain Season in Tâi-gí

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0800

It's been raining dramatically in Taiwan! Every late spring here, the weather turns warm, humid, and rainy. Here comes the plum rain season! When cold and warm air masses meet and linger, we get weeks of steady drizzle. It’s called “plum rain” because it arrives right when plums ripen and fall. Today, let’s learn some Tâi-gí words and an idiom for this rainy time of year.

●Words to Know:

1. 黃酸雨 n̂g-sng-hōo / 梅仔雨 muê-á-hōo (n.) plum rain / East Asian rainy season

2. 春天 tshun-thinn (n.) spring

3. 梅仔 muê-á (n.) plum

4. 雨傘 hōo-suànn (n.) umbrella

5. 落雨 lo̍h-hōo (v.) to rain

●Idiom of the week:

好天著存雨來糧。

Hó-thinn tio̍h tshûn hōo-lâi-niû

(On sunny days, store food for rainy days.)

Tomb Sweeping Day in Tâi-gí

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0800

5 April marks the Tomb Sweeping Day, or the Qingming Festival, in Taiwan this year! On this national holiday, families visit ancestral graves to clean tombs, offer food and incense, as well as burn joss paper to honour ancestors. This week, let’s learn some Tâi-gí words related to Tomb Sweeping Day.

●Words to Know:

1. 清明 tshing-bîng (n.) Tomb Sweeping Day

2. 墓仔埔 bōng-á-poo (n.) cemetery

3. 培墓 puē-bōng (v.) to sweep the tomb

4. 墓紙 bōng-tsuá (n.) tomb paper

5. 祖先 tsóo-sian (n.) ancestor

●Idiom / Proverb of the week:

清明無轉厝，無祖；過年無轉厝，無某。

Tshing-bîng bô tńg tshù, bô tsóo; kuè-nî bô tńg tshù, bô bóo.

(If you don’t return home for Qingming, you have no ancestors; if you don’t return home for New Year, you have no wife.)

Sunflower Movement's Anthem: Island's Sunrise

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0800

From 18 March till 10 April, 2014, hundreds of youngsters, mostly university students, ramped into Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan. They occupy the space for one reason: to protest against the trade agreement between Taiwan and China signed in a black box.

The occupation became known as the Sunflower Movement, which changed Taiwan’s political scene tremendously. The movement gave birth to a new generation of Taiwanese politicians and activists, who have stronger Taiwanese identities, have less interest in ties with China, and aspire for a better democracy.

The movement took the sunflower as its symbol because it is heliotropic. These young people were looking for the sun to rise in politics. And this value is clearly reflected in the movement’s anthem – Island’s Sunrise (島嶼天光).

This week, we’ll learn a few lines from the song, so that you can sing along to this powerful tune.

Names of Sports in Tâi-gí

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0800

What is your favourite sport? Do you like watching sports? With professional leagues like baseball and basketball, Taiwan is an island that is so passionate about sports! In fact, Taiwan even participated in the World Baseball Classic, which just came to an end earlier this week, defeating Czech Republic and Korea. This week, let’s learn some Tâi-gí words related to sports.

●Words to Know:

1. 運動 ūn-tōng (n.) sport

2. 野球 iá-kiû (n.) baseball

3. 籃球 nâ-kiû (n.) basketball

4. 跤球 kha-kiû (n.) football

5. 泅水 siû-tsuí (v.) swim

6. 比賽 pí-sài (n.) sport match

●Idiom of the week:

好額毋值得會食，好命毋值得勇健。

Hó-gia̍h m̄-ta̍t-tit ē tsia̍h, hó-miā m̄-ta̍t-tit ióng-kiānn.

(Being rich is not as valuable as being able to eat; having a good life is not as valuable as being healthy and strong.)

Going to the Movies in Tâi-gí

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0800

Are you a cinephile? As a film critic, watching films is one the things that Wanson loves to do in his free time. This week, let’s learn some Tâi-gí words related to going to the movies.

●Words to Know:

1. 電影 tiān-iánn (n.) film

2. 戲院 hì-īnn (n.) movie theatre

3. 拍電影 phah-tiān-iánn (phr.) shoot a film

4. 主角 tsú-kak (n.) main character

5. 字幕 jī-bōo (n.) subtitles

●Idiom of the week:

人生親像大舞台，苦齣笑詼攏公開。

Jîn-sing tshin-tshiūnn tuā bú-tâi, khóo-tshut tshiò-khue lóng kong-khai.

(Life is like a big stage – sad scenes and comedic scenes are all performed in public.)

Public Transportation Terms in Tâi-gí

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0800

Do you know that public transportation is so important to the cities of Taiwan? We rely on buses, metro, trains, and sometimes even high speed rail to commute to work! This week, let’s learn some Tâi-gí words related to public transportation in Taiwan.

●Words to Know:

1. 公車 kong-tshia (n.) bus

2. 捷運 tsia̍t-ūn (n.) metro

3. 火車 hué-tshia (n.) train

4. 高鐵 ko-thih (n.) high speed rail

5. 買車票 bé tshia-phiò (phr.) buy a ticket

6. 車頭 tshia-thâu (n.) train station

●Idiom of the week:

狗吠火車。

Káu puī hué-tshia.

(A dog barks at a train.)

228 Peace Memorial Day Special: A Foggy Midnight

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0800

2026 marks the 79th anniversary of the February 28th incident.

In 1947, Taiwanese people stood up against the Kuomintang’s nationalist government after a murder committed by the government’s tobacco investigator. This incident led to a wide clash between the Taiwanese locals and the newcomers from China. Soldiers fired upon the protesters and civilians across the island after the incident.

Two years after the incident, Taiwan entered the “White Terror” period, when the society was controlled by martial law. During the White Terror, countless Taiwanese civilians, mostly suspected leftists and intellectuals, were unjustly arrested and executed. The island was under an atmosphere of fear, surveillance, and self-censorship.

Last year, A Foggy Tale (大濛), Taiwanese filmmaker Chen Yu-hsun’s latest feature on the White Terror, took the top prize at the Golden Horse Awards in Taipei. It is a moving take on how people find courage in a foggy, authoritarian era.

This week, we’ll learn a few lines from “A Foggy Midnight” (大濛的暗眠), the film’s theme song, so that you can sing along to this beautiful tune.

A Tâi-gí love song to the future!

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0800

Welcome to the New Year of the Horse! If you are in Taiwan, you might still be enjoying the holidays. However, do you have any plans for the future, or any new year resolutions?

Recently, I found a Tâi-gí song that is so catchy, 寫予未來的情歌 (Love song to the future), by 張語噥 Sammy. It is a letter dedicated to those still grinding through the day, and those who struggle with doubt but refuse to give up. With an upbeat melody, the song reminds us that our hopes for life and our visions for the future belong to us.

This week, we’ll learn a few lines from its lyrics, so that you can sing along to this beautiful tune.

Tâi-gí for the Lunar New Year

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0800

Lunar New Year is just around the corner. Are you ready to meet a bunch of family and friends who reunite with you at this time of year? This week, let’s learn some useful Tâi-gí phrases for greeting people during the Lunar New Year!

●Phrases to Know:

1. 新年快樂 sin-nî khuài-lo̍k (Happy New Year)

2. 恭喜發財 kiong-hí huat-tsâi (Wishing you prosperity and wealth)

3. 食紅棗，年年好 Tsia̍h âng-tsó, nî nî hó (Eat red dates and have a good year every year)

4. 食甜甜，予你好緣規厝邊 Tsia̍h tinn tinn, hōo-lí hó iân kui tshù-pinn (Eat sweets and may you have good relationships with everyone around you)

5. 食龍眼，予你趁錢若海湧 Tsia̍h lîng-gíng, hōo-lí thàn-tsînn nā hái-íng (Eat longan and may your wealth surge like the ocean)

6. 食紅柿，予你事事攏如意⁣ Tsia̍h âng-khī, hōo-lí sū sū lóng lû-ì (Eat persimmons and may everything goes as you wish for)

7. 敬你一杯茶，祝你身體健康無問題⁣ Kìng lí tsi̍t pue tê, tsiok lí sin-thé kiān-khong bô būn-tê (I offer you a cup of tea and wish you good health with no problems)

"Catching a cold" in Tâi-gí

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0800

It's been so cold in Taiwan recently! Do you have a runny nose or sore throat? I hope you are well. This week, let’s learn some Tâi-gí words related to catching a cold.

●Words to Know:

1. 感冒 kám-mōo (phr.) catch a cold

2. 頭疼 thâu-thiànn (n.) headache

3. 咳嗽 ka-sàu (v.) cough

4. 發燒 huat-sio (phr.) have a fever

5. 看醫生 khuànn-i-sing (phr.) see the doctor

●Idiom of the week:

愛媠毋驚流鼻水。

Ài-suí m̄ kiann lâu phīnn-tsuí.

(They’d rather have a runny nose than give up looking good.)

Wanson is on vacation!

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0800

Wanson is in Japan right now, on vacation with his family. This week, let’s learn some related words and wait for his return next week!

●Words to Know:

1. 歇寒 hioh-kuânn (n.) winter vacation

2. 坐飛行機 tsē-hue-lîng-ki (phr.) take a plane

3. 日本 ji̍t-pún (n.) Japan

4. 出國 tshut-kok (v.) go abroad

5. 旅行 lú-hîng (n.) travelling

●Idiom of the week:

一日走拋拋，一暝點燈膋。

Tsi̍t ji̍t tsáu-pha-pha, tsi̍t mê tiám ting-lâ.

(Wandering around all day, then burning the midnight oil to fight through the night.)

How does it feel to fly away from home?

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0800

Last year, in January, I started my journey as an exchange student in Paris. It was the first time I left my family for such a long time. They were worried about me, and I was anxious about leaving them, too.

The same thing happened to the Tâi-gí singer, Justin Su. When his daughter went to France to study there, he wrote a song to her. He expressed his best wishes and his deep love to his daughter.

The song is titled “飛” (Soaring). This week, we’ll learn a few lines from its lyrics, so that you can sing along to this beautiful tune.

Tâi-gí in markets: fruits

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0800

Morning markets are the best places to experience Taiwan’s vibrant food culture. From meat and vegetables to seafood, these ingredients represent the flavours of Taiwan. And, people there usually speak Tâi-gí. We’ll continue learning some useful words to help you go shopping in a Taiwanese market. This week, let’s focus on fruits.

●Words to Know:

1. 果子 kué-tsí / 水果 tsuí-kó (n.) fruit

2. 葡萄 phû-tô (n.) grape

3. 蓮霧 lián-bū (n.) wax apple

4. 柿仔 khī-á (n.) persimmon

5. thoo-má-tooh (n.) tomato

●Idiom of the week:

西瓜倚大爿。

Si-kue uá tuā pîng.

(Lean toward the bigger side of the watermelon.)

Sing as a daughter of Taiwan

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0800

This year, I spent New Year’s Eve watching live broadcasts of celebration concerts all over Taiwan on TV with my family. There was one song that caught my attention — 台灣查某囝 (The Daughter of Taiwan) by 李竺芯 Siri Lee.

The previous host of Tâi-gí Made Easy, Ching-en, has introduced this talented young singer, who performs in Tâi-gí. This week, we’ll focus on this particular song and learn a few lines from the lyrics, so that you can sing along to this beautiful tune.

Tâi-gí in markets: seafood

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0800

Morning markets are the best places to experience Taiwan’s vibrant food culture - and people there usually speak Tâi-gí. We’ll continue learning some useful words to help you navigate the Taiwanese market. This week, we're joined by Allen to explore how to describe seafood.

●Words to Know:

1. 海產 hái-sán (n.) seafood

2. 魚 hî (n.) fish

3. 蝦 hê (n.) shrimp

4. 小管仔 sió-kńg-á (n.) Baby Squid

5. 蚶仔 ham-á (n.) clam

●Idiom of the week:

一日討海，三日曝網。

Tsi̍t ji̍t thó-hái, sann ji̍t pha̍k bāng.

(Catching fish for one day, but spending three days drying the fishing nets.)

Let's celebrate 2025 New Year's Eve in Tâi-gí

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0800

Are you ready for 2026? In Taiwan, people love doing the New Year countdown on December 31. The most famous countdown event takes place at Taipei 101, featuring a fireworks display and a concert. This week, we’ll learn some vocabulary about the New Year, so you can count down with your friends in Taiwan!

●Words to Know:

1. 跨年 khuà-nî (phr.) to celebrate New Year’s Eve

2. 2026 jī-khòng-jī-la̍k (n.) 2026

3. 煙火 ian-hué (v.) fireworks

4. 相挨相𤲍 sio-e-sio-kheh (idiom) very crowded

5. 平安順序 pîng-an sūn-sī (phr.) safe and smooth

●Song of the week:

詹雅雯 Chan Ya-Wen - 今年一定會好過

What to do on Dongzhi in Taiwan?

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0800

In Taiwanese culture, Dongzhi, or the Winter Solstice, is not just the shortest day of the year. In the past, people believed that after Dongzhi, everyone officially became one year older.

One of the most important Dongzhi customs in Taiwan is eating tangyuan (glutinous rice balls). Their round shape symbolises wholeness, reunion, and harmony within the family.

This week, we'll learn some vocabulary about Dongzhi, so that you can celebrate the day with your friends in Taiwan!

●Words to Know:

1. 冬節 tang-tseh (n.) Dongzhi

2. 挲圓仔 so înn-á (phr.) making tangyuan

3. 團圓 (v.) reunion

4. 烏麻仔 oo-muâ-á (n.) sesame

5. 塗豆 thôo-tāu (n.) peanut

●Idiom of the week:

冬節圓仔食落加一歲。Tang-tseh înn-á tsia̍h lo̍h ke tsi̍t huè.

Eating tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) on Dongzhi means you've turned one year older.

Tâi-gí in markets: meats

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0800

●Words to Know:

1. 豬肉 ti-bah (n.) pork

2. 排骨 pâi-kut (n.) pork ribs

3. 雞肉 ke-bah (n.) chicken

4. 牛肉 gû-bah (n.) beef

5. 羊肉 iûnn-bah (n.) lamb

6. 鴨肉 ah-bah (n.) duck

●Idiom of the week:

看人食肉，毋通看人相拍。Khuànn lâng tsia̍h bah, m̄-thang khuànn lâng sio-phah.

(It's better to watch others eat meat than to watch them fight.)

Tâi-gí in markets: vegetables

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0800

Morning markets are the best places to experience Taiwan’s vibrant food culture, where all the ingredients represent part of Taiwan's flavours. This week, we’ll continue to learn some useful words, specifically vegetables, to help you go shopping in a Taiwanese market.

●Words to Know:

1. 蔥仔 tshang-á (n.) scallion

2. 紅菜頭 âng-tshài-thâu (n.) carrots

3. 莧菜 hīng-tshài (n.) Amaranth Leaves / Chinese spinach

4. 香菇 hiunn-koo (n.) shintake mushrooms

5. 高麗菜 ko-lê-tshài (n.) cabbage

●Idiom of the week:

食魚食肉，也著菜佮。Tsia̍h hî tsia̍h bah, iā tio̍h tshài kah.

(Eating fish and meat is important, but it's also essential to eat vegetables.)

Tâi-gí in markets: cheap, expensive, fresh

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0800

Morning markets are the best places to experience Taiwan’s vibrant food culture. From meat and vegetables to seafood, these ingredients represent the flavours of Taiwan. And, people there usually speak Tâi-gí. This week, we’ll learn some useful words to help you go shopping in a Taiwanese market.

●Words to Know:

1. 菜市仔 tshài-tshī-á (n.) market

2. 頭家 thâu-ke (n.) boss / shop owner

3. 俗 sio̍k (adj.) cheap

4. 貴 kuì (adj.) expensive

5. 鮮 tshinn (adj.) fresh

●Idiom of the week:

無魚，蝦嘛好 Bô hî, hê mā hó.

(If you can’t get fish, buying shrimp is fine too.)

Talking about the weather in Tâi-gí

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0800

Tropical Storm Fung-Wong reached southern Taiwan last week, becoming the first typhoon to make landfall in the past 58 years. With Taiwan’s weather changing so dramatically lately, let’s learn a few words to describe it.

●Words to Know:

1. 落雨 lo̍h-hōo (v.) raining

2. 好天 hó-thinn (n.) a sunny and comfortable day

3. 風真透 hong tsin thàu (phr.) really windy

4. 寒 kuânn (adj.) cold

5. 熱 lua̍h (adj.) hot

●PHRASE of the week:

鳳凰風颱 hòng-hông hong-thai

Fung-Wong (Phoenix) typhoon

Tâi-gí singer Jody Chiang's most popular song

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0800

Today, we’re listening to one of the most beloved Tâi-gí songs in Taiwan of all time — Ke-āu (家後) by Jody Chiang (江蕙).

As the most popular song of the most popular modern Tâi-gí singer, this song tells the story of a woman who has spent her life caring for her husband and family with deep love and devotion.

Let’s learn a few lines from the lyrics, so that you can sing along and get to know the meaning of the song.

Vegetables and fish in November

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0800

As the weather turns cooler in November, Taiwan’s markets is filled with the flavours of early winter. On this week’s Tâi-gí Made Easy, we’ll learn how to say these seasonal foods in Tâi-gí. Let s explore how these foods show the rhythm of Taiwan’s vibrant food scene.

●Words to Know:

1. 菜頭 tshài-thâu (n.) radish

2. 椪柑 phòng-kam (n.) Ponkan

3. 弓蕉 king-tsio (n.) banana

4. 烏魚 oo-hî (n.) mullet

5. 白帶魚 pe̍h-tuà-hî (n.) silverfish

●Idiom of the week:

弓蕉吐囝為囝死 King-tsio thòo kiánn uī kiánn sí.

(The banana gives birth to its child, and dies for its child.)

Loanwords in Tâi-gí: bento, microphone, and bunker

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0800

With the diverse cultures that have influenced Taiwan, there are many Tâi-gí words that originate from other languages! This week, we will continue to learn some new words and explore the influence of English, Japanese, and more on the Taiwanese language.

●Words to Know:

1. ùn-tsiàng (n.) driver

2. mài-kù (n.) microphone

3. 便當 piān-tong (n.) bento / boxed lunch

4. gá-suh (n.) gas stove / gas

5. 磅空 pōng-khang (n.) tunnel / bunker

●Idiom of the week:

Pha-lih-pha-lih.

(Someone is very fashionable.)

Loanwords in Tâi-gí: soap, motorcycle, and lighter

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0800

With the diverse cultures that have influenced Taiwan, there are many Tâi-gí words that originate from other languages! This week, let’s learn some new words and explore the influence of English, Japanese, French, and more on the Taiwanese language.

●Words to Know:

1. oo-tóo-bái (n.) scooter / motorcycle

2. 雪文 sap-bûn (n.) soap

3. 麭 pháng (n.) bread

4. bì-lù (n.) beer

5. lài-tah (n.) lighter

●Idiom of the week:

A-ta-mah khōng-ku-lí.

(Someone is so stupid that their brain is full of concrete.)

You Complete Me: A Tâi-gí Love Song

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0800

Have you met anyone whom you’d like to spend your life with? Today, we are listening to a song in Tâi-gí that touches on the relationship between you and your significant other – 一人一半 You Complete Me by 旺福 Won Fu.

This track is the theme song of the Taiwanese TV drama The Making of an Ordinary Woman. The lyrics are simple yet powerful. People follow different life paths: some succeed, others don’t. But deep down, we all share the same hope to find someone who will always stay by our side.

National Day celebrations in Taiwan

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0800

On 10 October, also known as Double Tenth Day, people in Taiwan celebrate our National Day! Historically, 10 October 1911 marked the day of the Xinhai Revolution, which led to the termination of the Qing Dynasty in China and ultimately resulted in the establishment of the Republic of China, the official name of the ruling government in Taiwan.

As people in Taiwan celebrate our National Day, there will be flag-raising ceremonies all over the country on 10 October. Plus, you can participate in the fireworks display in Nantou this year. Moreover, there is an exceptional projection mapping show illuminating the facade of the Presidential Office.

This week, we’ll explore some words related to the National Day!

●Words to Know:

1. 國慶 kok-khìng (n.) National Day

2. 國旗 kok-kî (n.) the national flag

3. 煙火 ian-hué (n.) fireworks

4. 鬧熱 lāu-jia̍t (adj.) lively, with lots of activities

5. 放假 pàng-ká (phr.) to have a day off

Talking about Moon Festival in Tâi-gí

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0800

The Moon Festival is one of Taiwan’s most important holidays when families gather. The festival is on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, when the moon is at its fullest. This year, it falls on 6 October. In Taiwan, families and friends gather to watch the moon, eat mooncakes and pomelos, and enjoy outdoor barbecues. This week, we’ll explore some words and idioms related to the festival!

●Words to Know:

1. 中秋節 Tiong-tshiu-tseh (n.) the Moon Festival

2. 月娘 gue̍h-niû (n.) the Moon

3. 月餅 gue̍h-piánn (n.) mooncake

4. 柚仔 iū-á (n.) pomelo

5. 烘肉 hang-bah (v.) to barbecue

●Idiom of the week:

年驚中秋，月驚十九。Nî kiann tiong-tshiu, gue̍h kiann si̍p-kiú.

(People are afraid of Mid-Autumn in a year, and are afraid of the 19th day in a month.)

Biking and Singing in Tâi-gí

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0800

This week, we’ll be listening to a song that brings back a lot of memories for many people in Taiwan: Bike (腳踏車) by Jason Wang (王識賢). This song is all about riding a bike and waiting for the lover. Let’s ride along together with this song.

Let's go to a night market!

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0800

Night markets are one of the most important parts of Taiwanese culture!Whether it is a weekday or a weekend evening, people enjoy strolling through these lively spots where so many food stalls and vendors gather. This week, we’ll learn some essential words related to the night market.

●Words to Know:

1. 踅夜市 se̍h iā-tshī (phr.) to go to the night market

2. 鹹酥雞 kiâm-soo-ke (n.) Taiwanese fried chicken

3. 煙腸 ian-tshiâng (n.) sausage

4. 擔 tànn (n.) a stall

5. 拍珠仔 phah tsu-á (phr.) play pinball

●Idiom of the week:

三跤步一坎店。Sann kha-pōo tsi̍t khám tiàm.

(Every three steps, there’s a small shop.)

Talking about school in Tâi-gí

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0800

If you’re a student — welcome back to school! The semester has just started in Taiwan in September. In today’s episode, we’ll get to know some fun and useful Taiwanese phrases related to campus life and learning. Whether you’re meeting new friends or talking about homework, these expressions will help you get ready for the new semester.

●Words to Know:

1. 開學 khai-ha̍k (n.) the start of school

2. 讀冊 tha̍k-tsheh (v.) to study

3. 老師 lāu-su (n.) teacher

4. 同學 tông-o̍h (n.) classmate

5. 智識 tì-sik (n.) knowledge

●Idiom of the week:

讀冊，讀佇尻脊骿。Tha̍k-tsheh, tha̍k tī kha-tsiah-phiann.

(Studying mechanically without real understanding.)

A Barber's Story in a Tâi-gí Tune

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0800

This week, we'll learn some poetic lines in Tâi-gí from the lyrics of The Usual (同款) by Pei-Yu Hung (洪佩瑜). The track is the theme song of the movie "Day Off," which tells the touching story of a barber and her client. Let's sing a long to the lines together!

It's Qixi Valentine's Day!

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0800

The Qixi Festival, also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, celebrates the legend of the Weaver Girl (織女) and the Cowherd (牛郎). According to the lunar calendar, the festival falls on 29 August this year. This week, we’ll explore some words and an idiom related to the festival!

●Words to Know:

1. 情人節 tsîng-jîn-tseh (n.) Valentine’s Day

2. 織女 Tsit-lú (n.) Weaver Girl

3. 牛郎 Gû-nn̂g (n.) the Cowherd

4. 河溪 hô-khe (n.) Milky Way

5. 客鳥 kheh-tsiáu (n.) magpie

●Idiom of the week:

愛著較慘死 Ài--tio̍h khah tshám sí.

(Once you fall in love, it's more miserable than death.)

Talking about Ghost Month in Tâi-gí

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0800

We're stepping into the Ghost Month in Taiwan... According to the legend, this is a time when the gates of the underworld are open. The highlight is the Ghost Festival (中元節) on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month. On the day, people hold ceremonies offering food to the spirits who don’t have a home (Pudu 普渡). You might also witness the beautiful yet solemn tradition of releasing the lanterns on water to guide lost souls. Tune in to learn the essential Tai-gi words for you to get through the month!

●Words to Know:

1. 鬼月 kuí-gue̍h (n.) Ghost Month

2. 鬼門 kuí-mn̂g (n.) the gates of the underworld

3. 中元節 Tiong-guân-tseh (n.) Ghost Festival

4. 普渡 phóo-tōo (v.) to offer food to the spirits who don’t have a home (Pudu)

5. 放水燈 pàng-tsuí-ting (phr.) to release water lanterns

●Idiom of the week:

七月半鴨仔，毋知死活。 Tshit-gue̍h-puànn ah-á, m̄ tsai sí-ua̍h.

(A duck on the Ghost Festival, unaware of its fate.)

Talking about typhoons in Tâi-gí

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0800

Summer is typhoon season in Taiwan. In fact, the island was struck by a typhoon on August 13. This week, we explore some useful typhoon-related words and phrases, which are perfectly timed for the moment.

●Words to Know:

1. 風颱 hong-thai (n.) typhoon

2. 風颱天 hong-thai-thinn (n.) typhoon day

3. 做風颱 tsò-hong-thai (phr.) a typhoon is hitting

4. 火燒雲 hué-sio-hûn (n.) red clouds (before a typhoon)

5. 做大水 tsò-tuā-tsuí (phr.) flooding

●Idiom of the week:

掃著風颱尾 sàu-tio̍h hong-thai-bué

(Get caught in the crossfire.)

Saying goodbye in Tai-gi: Parting words and best wishes

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this special farewell episode of Taigi Made Easy, we learn how to say goodbye and express well wishes in Taigi. Phrases like tsài-huē and tsiok-hok lí hīng-hok bí-buán offer warm, meaningful ways to part. The episode also features the classic song Tsiok-hok by Jody Chiang — a touching ballad about letting go with grace. Though this chapter closes, the journey of learning Taigi and exploring Taiwanese culture continues.

Siri Lee: A bold new voice in Taiwanese music

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode of Tai-gi Made Easy, we spotlight rising Tai-gi singer Siri Lee, whose album Suí swept the 2024 Golden Melody Awards. Learn how she blends modern sounds with her native Taiwanese language to create fresh, meaningful music — including her viral hit “puānn puānn leh.” Discover how her work is reshaping the future of Taiwanese pop culture, one heartfelt lyric at a time.

Talking about pain in Tai-gi: Headaches, toothaches & More

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode of Tai-gi Made Easy, we build on last week’s body parts vocabulary and learn how to describe common types of pain in Tai-gi — like “headache” (thâu thiànn) and “toothache” (tshuì-khí thiànn). We also explore fun idioms and cultural insights, including the summer treat bí-thai-ba̍k and the expression ngē-phīnn for describing a stubborn person. A perfect mix of language learning and culture!

Tai-gi body parts: From shoulders to toes

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode of Tai-gi Made Easy, we continue our exploration of body parts — this time focusing on everything below the neck. Learn how to say “shoulders,” “chest,” “arms,” “feet,” and more in Tai-gi, plus hear a fun idiom that uses the word for “nose”! Don’t forget to review last week’s lesson on facial features as we build your vocabulary step by step.

Head first: Exploring English expressions with body parts above the neck

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, we're diving into the world of body-related vocabulary—starting from the neck up. We'll explore common English phrases and expressions that involve the head, face, eyes, ears, and more. From "off the top of your head" to "lend me your ears," you'll discover how these everyday body parts shape the way we speak. Stay tuned for future episodes where we’ll continue the journey down to the toes!

Thirsty? Let's order something to drink in Tâi-gí!

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 22:00:00 +0800

Last time, we got a taste of how to talk about drinks in Tâi-gí— from basic words to common favorites. You learned how to say what you're drinking and got comfortable using key vocabulary in everyday situations.

In this episode, we're building on that foundation. You'll learn how to put those words into natural, full sentences so you can order a drink or chat about your beverage preferences with ease.

Let's go grab a drink!

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, you’ll learn basic Tâi-gí phrases for drinking different kinds of beverages — from water to tea and beyond!

Ordering food

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, we’ll learn how to order food in Tâi-gí.

Tâi-gí Voices: Chiā Bêng-iū

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 22:00:00 +0800

The 38th Golden Melody Awards ceremony will take place at Taipei Arena on June 28th. This event brings together Taiwan’s music lovers and top artists to celebrate the country’s outstanding musical achievements.

Among this year’s nominees is Chiā Bêng-iū, who has earned recognition in several major categories: Best Lyricist, Best Male Singer, and Best Tai-gi Album for his latest release, Pian-lâm. Additionally, one of the album’s tracks, “Pian-lâm-hong,” is nominated for Song of the Year.

Tune in to listen to this captivating song and discover more about this iconic singer!

Colors

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 22:00:00 +0800

Let’s learn the names of colors in Tâi-gí!

Getting there: Talking about transportation in everyday conversations

Fri, 30 May 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, you'll learn how to talk about the ways you get from place to place. Discover how to express the use of different modes of transportation—like cars, trains, or vessels—when describing how you reach a destination or accomplish an activity.

Understanding Henry Hsu's song "Mî-tsioh-phuē"

Fri, 23 May 2025 00:50:00 +0800

The host explains Henry Hsu's beloved Tâi-gí song 'Mî-tsioh-phuē' (meaning 'blanket') to help listeners learn vocabulary and appreciate his music.

Where are you from? Country names in Tâi-gí!

Fri, 16 May 2025 22:00:00 +0800

Do you know what your country is called in Tâi-gí? In this week's program, we'll learn the names of several countries in Tâi-gí, along with useful collocations to help expand your vocabulary.

A Tâi-gí song for mom: Celebrating love and dedication

Fri, 09 May 2025 22:00:00 +0800

On the occasion of Mother's Day, we're celebrating the love and dedication of mothers with a heartfelt song by Taiwanese singer Henry Hsu.

Talking about media in Tâi-gí

Fri, 02 May 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, you'll learn how to talk about media in Tâi-gí (Taiwanese)!

Jacky Chen: bridging Taiwan’s musical past and present

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, we explore the music of Jacky Chen (Tân Kiàn-úi), a singer-songwriter and producer who’s redefining Taiwanese pop by blending traditional Tai-gi sounds with modern soul.

From his roots in rural Taiwan to his award-winning albums, you’ll hear how Jacky honors the past while creating something entirely new.

Sngception: feeling beyond pain in Tâi-gí

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, the audience is introduced to Tâi-gí adjectives related to pain and soreness.

The host also shares a recently coined term, "sgnception," which highlights the medical and semantic distinctions between pain and soreness in Tâi-gí.

To learn more about the study, please read this open-access article: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.abc5219

Essential Tâi-gí Verbs for Beginners

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 22:00:00 +0800

Picking up where we left off last week, this episode dives deeper into Tâi-gí verbs and introduces more practical vocabulary to boost your language skills.

Useful Tâi-gí verbs

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 22:00:00 +0800

The audience are introduced to a few Tâi-gí verbs. They will learn to express certain actions in Tâi-gí, and pick up some useful vocabulary along the way.

Celebrating Tân It-lông's Legacy at the Megaport Festival

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 22:00:00 +0800

This weekend, the 7th Megaport Festival honors Tân It-lông, a pioneer of Taiwanese Taigi music. Award-winning artists will perform his timeless songs, including "Red Light Harbor," blending live music with AI and archival footage in tribute to blue-collar workers of 1980s Taiwan.

Taiwanese idioms to describe negative personality and behavior

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 22:00:00 +0800

We've got an email from our listener Maria, asking about Tâi-gí curse words. While we can’t dive into indecent language, today we’ll explore idioms that subtly describe negative personality traits and behavior, offering a deeper look into Tâi-gí and Taiwanese culture. Stay tuned!

Siri Lee's artistic career and her music

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 22:00:00 +0800

This episode provides a deeper look into the Taiwanese singer Siri Lee's artistic career, and introduces one of her songs "Taiwal Gal" to the audience.

Counting from 1 to 10

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, you'll learn how to count from 1 to 10 in Tâi-gí!

Tracing Taiwan's dark past: a journey through history

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 22:00:00 +0800

This episode offers a background on the 228 Incident and the White Terror, exploring their impact on Taiwanese language and identity. It also introduces the Tâi-gí song Lîm Siù Bī Tâi-gí by the indie band Tsng-kha-lâng.

Siri Lee's viral T-pop hit celebrates cooking and Taiwanese cuisine

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 22:00:00 +0800

The emerging singer-songwriter Siri Lee recently went viral on social media with her song "Je prend, je prend. Je vais voi."

The song captures the inner thoughts of someone who truly enjoys the art of cooking, all while incorporating a French accent to add intrigue and blur the boundaries of language.

In this episode, the host analyzes the lyrics and introduces some commonly used Tâi-gí vocabulary and phrases related to Taiwanese food and cooking. Stay tuned to discover more about this T-pop hit and unlock the secrets of Taiwanese cuisine!

Expressing love on Valentine's Day

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0800

In this episode, you'll learn how to say a few words and phrases about Valentine's Day in Tâi-gí!

Sports and other activities

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, the host introduces some useful Tai-gi words and phrases related to sports and activities.

Celebrating the Lunar New Year!

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0800

In this special Lunar New Year episode of Taigi Made Easy, the host celebrates Taiwanese cultural traditions, including family reunions and festive preparations for the new year. The episode also features the iconic Taiwanese pop song "Bobee" by Lotus Wang, spreading joy and festive cheer.

How to say "I like" and "I don’t like" to eat in Tâi-gí

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0800

In this episode, we’ll learn how to say 'I like to eat' and 'I don’t like to eat' in Tai-gí—perfect for chatting with friends in Taiwan or deciding what to have for dinner!

What would you like to drink?

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 22:00:00 +0800

Curious about how to ask someone what they'd like to drink, and want to learn the names of beverages in Tâi-gí? Tune in to find out!

Exploring Chiam Ngá-bûn's "This Year Will Definitely Be Better": A deep dive into the lyrics and language

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0800

Continuing from last week's episode, the host delves into the lyrics of "This Year Will Definitely Be Better" by Taiwanese singer Chiam Ngá-bûn. Along the way, listeners will pick up a range of useful phrases and idioms, enriching their understanding of the song and its cultural context.

Looking forward to a better year!

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0800

In this episode, the host introduces the song "This year will definitely be better" performed by the Taiwanese singer Chiam Ngá-bûn.

What are your plans for New Year's Eve?

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0800

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Energy

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0800

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Living spaces

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0800

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Ivy's journey: from Tai-gi at home to the classroom

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Ivy, a recent university graduate from Taoyuan City, reflects on her experiences growing up speaking Tai-gi with her family in a predominantly Hakka area. She also shares insights from her time studying in central Taiwan, where she interacted with classmates from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Continuing the journey: Han-wei's deeper dive into Tâi-gí

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0800

This week, we continue my conversation with Han-wei about his journey learning Tâi-gí. If you missed the first part, be sure to check out the previous episode on the Rti website. Let’s pick up where we left off.

Bridging worlds: a waishengren’s path to learning Tâi-gí feat. Han-wei

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0800

This week, I’m joined by my friend Han-wei to discuss his journey of learning Tai-gi as a descendant of waishengren—mainland immigrants who fled to Taiwan after 1949. We explore what it means for him to reconnect with Taiwan’s local language and culture. Let’s hear his story.

How do you say this in Tâi-gí?

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0800

This episode introduces several phrases for asking how to say certain words in Tâi-gí—one of the most common questions non-native speakers ask when learning a new language.

Let's speak and sing "A-bú ê Uē"

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0800

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Reimagining gender roles and Tâi-gí pop music with Lilium

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0800

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Talking about weather in Tâi-gí

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0800

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Tâi-gí Tunes: A Rainy Night at the Port

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, we introduce the Tâi-gí song "A Rainy Night at the Port." This song emerged as an early representative work of Keelung, notable for its music being composed before the lyrics. It has been covered by various artists, including Ang It Hong (洪一峰), Chris Hung (洪榮宏), and Jody Chiang (江蕙). Today, it is a beloved Taiwanese ballad, cherished and sung widely across Taiwanese society.

Let's go shopping in Taiwan's traditional markets!

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0800

In this episode, we’ll explore essential vocabulary for visiting a traditional market in Taiwan.

Learning how to count in Tâi-gí

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0800

In this episode, we will learn numbers (from 1 to 10) in Tâi-gí. When shopping at a supermarket, especially a local Taiwanese market, knowing how to say numbers is essential for effective bargaining. If the vendors speak Mandarin, using Tai-gi can help you build a closer relationship with them.

Home appliances and furniture

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Let's learn the names of home appliances and furniture in Tâi-g!

"Holding you tightly" by Jody Chiang

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 12:00:00 +0800

We are learning Tâi-gí through the song "Holding You Tightly" by Jody Chiang, the legendary Taiwanese diva who is making a comeback to the stage after a 9-year hiatus.

我欲甲你攬牢牢因為驚你半暝啊爬起來哭

guá beh kā lí lám tiâu-tiâu, in-uī kiann lí puànn-mî-á peh khí-lâi khàu

I want to hold you tight so you don’t wake up crying in the middle of the night.

甲你攬塊心肝頭乎你對人生袂擱茫渺渺

kā lí lám teh sim-kuann-thâu, hōo-lí tuì jîn-sing buē koh bông biáu-biáu

I’ll hold you close to my heart so you no longer feel lost in your life.

我欲甲你攬牢牢不免驚驚驚見笑

guá beh kā lí lám tiâu-tiâu, m̄-bián kiann-kiann, kiann-kiàn-siàu

I want to hold you tight. There’s no need for you to be afraid or shy.

世事乎人想袂曉你需要一個肩甲頭

sè-sū hōo-lâng siūnn buē-hiáu, lí su-iàu tsi̍t-ê king-kah-thâu

Destiny is unpredictable. You need a shoulder to lean on.

我欲甲你攬牢牢乎我陪你唱同調

guá beh kā lí lám tiâu-tiâu, hōo guá puê lí tshiùnn kāng tiāu

I want to hold you tight and sing in harmony with you.

分擔你的憂你的愁甲你的哭哭完心事著無了了

hun-tam lí ê iu, lí ê tshiû, kah lí ê khàu, khàu uân sim-sū tiō bô liáu-liáu

I want to share your worries, your troubles, and your tears. Your heartache will ease after you’ve cried.

我欲甲你攬牢牢乎你袂驚袂擱號

guá beh kā lí lám tiâu-tiâu, hōo-lí buē kiann, buē koh háu

I want to hold you tight so you won’t cry anymore.

往事放乎空人生啊才有望乎我陪你渡難關

óng-sū pàng hōo khang, jîn-sing--ah tsiah ū bāng, hōo guá puê lí tōo lân-kuan

Let go of the past, so that life holds hope. Let me be with you through the tough times.

Leisure activities 2

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Building on what is covered in the previous episode, the program dives deeper into how Taiwanese people talk about leisure and recreational activities in Tai-gi.

Leisure activities

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0800

This week, we're exploring the world of leisure and recreational activities.

Whether you enjoy socializing with friends or prefer a peaceful evening at home, there are endless ways to relax and have fun.

Join us as we discover how to express words related to leisure and recreation in Tâi-gí with Ching-en!

1. tshit-thô 𨑨迌 (to hang out)

2. tshiùnn-kua 唱歌 (to sing songs)

3. khuànn tiān-iánn 看電影 (to watch movies)

4. se̍h iā-tshī 踅夜市 (to visit the night market)

Flavor your life with Tâi-gí!

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0800

This week, we'll continue our journey into the world of Tâi-gí, exploring how to describe different tastes.

Today, we’ll introduce even more words you can use in everyday conversations with locals.

Tastes

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Food and gastronomy are essential parts of life, and culinary traditions vary greatly from place to place. When you visit a new country, one of the first cultural shocks and challenges you might face is adapting to the local cuisine and learning how to communicate your preferences in a restaurant. In this episode, Ching-en will introduce you to various ways to describe different tastes in Tai-gi.

Animals

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Do you love animals or have a pet at home? If so, you might be curious about how some animals are named in Tâi-gí.

In this week's lesson, we'll explore the names of various animals in Tai-gi.

This episode also introduces the Amis singer Panai Kusui’s song "lâ-lí" (meaning pangolin) from her latest album "iā-pô."

Taiwan's "soul-guiding arrays" makes world debut in Paris Cultural Olympiad

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0800

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Let's talk about sports in Tâi-gí!

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 22:00:00 +0800

As the Olympic Games draw near, let's learn the names of some sports in Tâi-gí.

Let's cheer for all the athletes competing this summer in Paris!

To capture the spirit of Taiwanese athletes, listen to Richie Jen's popular song "Set Out Again." It perfectly embodies their determination and passion.

Speaking Tâi-gí with grandma feat. Jenny Chen

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 22:00:00 +0800

Hello dear listeners! Exciting news—starting in July, Tâi-gí Made Easy will be extended from five to eight minutes!

I'll be bringing you even more information about the language and related topics.

This week, I’m thrilled to welcome my former colleague Jenny, who will share her lifelong experiences with Tâi-gí. To top it off, Jenny will introduce us to a timeless Taiwanese song at the end of the show.

Stay tuned and enjoy the journey with us!

Where to hang out in Tainan City: a guide for culture enthusiasts

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, the audience are introduced to a few fascinating destinations worth visiting in Tainan.

It is a guide designed for those who are interested in history and culture.

Tune in to discover more about the city!

Let's embark on a culinary tour in Tainan!

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 22:00:00 +0800

Tainan is renowned for its traditional delicacies. In this episode, the host takes the audience on a gastronomic journey!

Tainan: the ancient capital of Taiwan

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0800

Tainan is the ancient capital of Taiwan, offering a wealth of history and culture for you to explore.

In the upcoming episode, the host will share a series of stories and fun facts about Tainan.

Along the way, we'll also learn some Tai-gi together.

Speak Tai-gi at the clinic: essential medical terms

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, the host introduces Tâi-gí healthcare related terms and phrases.

The audience will learn to describe their body conditions and symptoms in Tâi-gí when they visit a medical institution in Taiwan.

Here's a list of terms and phrases mentioned in the program:

1. Hospital: pēnn-īnn

2. Clinic: tsín-sóo

3. Doctor: i-sing

4. Nurse: hōo-sū

5. Wearing a mask: kuà tshuì-am

6. I have a cold: guá kám-mōo

7. I have a fever: guá huat-sio

8. I have a runny nose: guá lâu phīnn-tsuí

9. I have a stomach ache: guá pak-tóo thiànn

10. I have a headache: guá thâu thiànn

Popular Shaved Ice Toppings

Fri, 24 May 2024 22:00:00 +0800

During the humid summertime, it is a good idea to treat yourself to a bowl of shaved ice to stay hydrated. In addition to the popular mango topping, let's explore other delicious options you can add to your shaved ice!

Emotions & Feelings

Fri, 17 May 2024 22:00:00 +0800

In this week's program, you will learn the fundamentals of expressing your emotions and feelings in Tai-gi.

Travel & Transport in Taiwan

Fri, 10 May 2024 22:00:00 +0800

In this week's program, you'll learn how to say various modes of transportation in Tâi-gí and discover efficient ways to travel around Taiwan.

Plan a trip to Taiwan!

Fri, 03 May 2024 22:00:00 +0800

This week's program offers some useful Taigi sentences and vocabulary to enhance your journey and make traveling in Taiwan more enjoyable and convenient.

Tâi-gí as a collective dream feat. Lai Yu-chen

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 22:00:00 +0800

In this week's show, we continue our conversation with Yu-chen, delving deeper into his insights and observations on the flourishing Tai-gi cultural scenes in Taiwan.

Towards the end of our discussion, he introduces a captivating musical that has taken Taiwan by storm - "Don't Cry, Dancing Girls."

This remarkable production weaves together elements ranging from the traditional Taiwanese "soul guiding array rap songs" (khan-bông-kua, 牽亡歌) to narrate a poignant family saga of love, conflict, and reconciliation.

Learn more about this sensational musical in the Taipei Times report "Musical about funeral rituals opens in Taipei."

Cultural revival of Tâi-gí in contemporary Taiwan feat. Lai Yu-chen

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 22:00:00 +0800

This week I talked to my friend Yu-chen to learn about his personal stories with Tâi-gí.

In our conversation, he makes sense of the role it plays in his life and contemporary Taiwan.

Kingdom of Fruits!

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 22:00:00 +0800

I was joined by Mary Anne in the last episode to learn the names of fruits in Tai-gi. I believe this will give you some idea of what to expect when traveling to Taiwan!

Continuing with the topic, I'm sharing the song "Kingdom of Fruits" with our listeners.

"Kingdom of Fruits" is a collaboration between the Tai-gi singer Michael Shih (施文彬) and the Neighborhood Children's Choir (厝邊隔壁兒童合唱團) on the 2011 album "Open Taiwan."

The lyrics mention a variety of Taiwanese fruits, which are embedded in the history and social memories of the people living on this island nation. Please tune in to learn more, and I hope you like it.

What Taiwanese fruits do you like? feat. Mary Anne

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 22:00:00 +0800

This week we're going to learn some fruits' names in Tâi-gí! Join me and my dear colleague Mary Anne to embark on this delightful linguistic journey!

Following are the words mentioned in this episode:

1. pua̍t-á (guava)

2. lián-bū (wax apple)

3 ông-lâi (pineapples)

4. si-kue (watermelon)

5. suāinn-á (mangoes)

6. pho-lô-bi̍t (jackfruit)

God loves stupid people?!

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, the host picked cool Tai-gi proverbs to share with you. Tai-gi is packed with these little gems that tell us a lot about Taiwanese culture and how folks see the world.

We can't go through all of them today, but I've picked two awesome ones . So, let's jump right in!

“Tsia̍h-pn̄g hông-tè tuā” (食飯皇帝大)
“Thinn-kong thiànn gōng-lâng” (天公疼戇人)

Professions & occupations: farmers & fishermen

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 22:00:00 +0800

Professions & occupations: farmers & fishermen

Professions & occupations: engineers, lawyers & other professionals

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 22:00:00 +0800

Last week, we covered terms like "tsa-poo" for male and "tsa-bóo" for female. We also learned how to say "I am a man" or "I am a woman" in Tâi-gí. This week, we'll continue with the sentence structure "guá sī," which means "I am," and explore more practical vocabulary. In this session, you'll learn new words related to various professions. I hope this lesson will assist you in introducing yourself by your occupation.

Whether you are male or female, we are all humans. Everyone is equal.

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 22:00:00 +0800

In this episode, we delve into Tâi-gí gender terms. Marking International Women's Day, the host discusses Taiwan's progress in gender equality, urging listeners to advocate for respect and equality across languages genders. Closing the show, Enno Cheng's empowering song "Daughters" inspires all women to pursue their dreams and break through gender barriers.

Introducing yourself in Tâi-gí

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 22:00:00 +0800

Introducing yourself in Tâi-gí

"Language means culture" feat. Tân Î-an

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 22:00:00 +0800

Have you ever wondered who speaks Tâi-gí and how frequently it's used? What is Tâi-gí's standing in contemporary Taiwanese society?

"Tâi-gí Made Easy" not only introduces you to useful Tâi-gí terms and phrases but also provides insight into the Taiwanese people's relationship with and perception of the language.

On the occasion of the United Nations' International Mother Language Day, commonly known as "World Mother Language Day," I had a conversation with Tân Î-an (陳怡安) about her personal experience with Tâi-gí.

Towards the end of our discussion, she shares with us the beautiful Tâi-gí poem "Love Letter" (情批) by Animo Chen.

Please stay tuned and embrace the native tongue.

Greeting people in Tâi-gí

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 22:00:00 +0800

1. To greet people/ greetings

"phah-tsio-hoo" or "sio-tsioh-mn̄g"

2. Hello! / Hi!

"lí hó" or "tsia̍h-pá--buē"

3. Good morning!

"gâu-tsá"

4. Good night! / Good evening!

"àm-an"

An invitation to learn Tâi-gí

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 22:00:00 +0800

In this introductory episode, the host explains the significance of Tâi-gí in Taiwanese culture and society, distinguishing it from Mandarin and other languages spoken in Taiwan. The episode offers insights into the origins of Tâi-gí and its spread across different regions due to Chinese migration. As the Lunar New Year approaches, the host shares traditional greetings for this festive occasion.