Common English Mistakes in Creative Nonfictions by Mandarin Chinese Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Mandarin Chinese speakers from Taiwan when writing a Creative Nonfiction in English.

Mistake Example #1

Using overly formal or direct language

IEarly in thequiet of the early morning, I took apeaceful walk through the park, and really nobsticervingd the treeswith great attention. The air wasfimelled wlith thkefragrance of flowers, and I felt a ptrofounde sense of trcanquilitym. It is mreally beliefve that nature progivides us the mobest excellenwaytform of relaxation, and I stronhighly recommend eveit foranyone who wantsto engagimprove thein such activities for mental hstatealth improvement.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to be less formal and more natural."

Early in the morning, I took a peaceful walk through the park and really noticed the trees. The air smelled like flowers, and I felt a true sense of calm. I really believe that nature gives us the best way to relax, and I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to improve their mental state.

In the quiet of the early morning, I took a walk through the park, observing the trees with great attention. The air was filled with the fragrance of flowers, and I felt a profound sense of tranquility. It is my belief that nature provides the most excellent form of relaxation, and I strongly recommend everyone to engage in such activities for mental health improvement.

Mistake Example #2

Omitting the subject in sentences ('Is important to learn English' instead of 'It is important to learn English')

Walking through the night market in Taipei, youfeel the vibrant energy all around. It is like stepping into a world full of colors and sounds, where every corner offers something new to discover. SThe smell of stinky tofu fills the air, andyou hear the chatter of people enjoying their evening.

Text corrected by:
Camille, Maryland, USA

"I've added subjects and articles where they were missing."

Walking through the night market in Taipei, you feel the vibrant energy all around. It is like stepping into a world full of colors and sounds, where every corner offers something new to discover. The smell of stinky tofu fills the air, and you hear the chatter of people enjoying their evening.

Walking through the night market in Taipei, feel the vibrant energy all around. Is like stepping into a world full of colors and sounds, where every corner offers something new to discover. Smell of stinky tofu fills the air, and hear the chatter of people enjoying their evening.

Mistake Example #3

Misuse of singular/plural nouns ('There are much people here' instead of 'There are many people here')

In the bustling night market of Taipei, there isare muchany vendors selling delicious street food. The aroma of stinky tofu and bubble tea fills the air, and there aremany people are enjoying the lively atmosphere. As I walk through the crowd, I feel the vibrant energy of the city, where every corner has its own story to tell.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to correct misuse of singular/plural nouns."

In the bustling night market of Taipei, there are many vendors selling delicious street food. The aroma of stinky tofu and bubble tea fills the air, and many people are enjoying the lively atmosphere. As I walk through the crowd, I feel the vibrant energy of the city, where every corner has its own story to tell.

In the bustling night market of Taipei, there is much vendor selling delicious street food. The aroma of stinky tofu and bubble tea fill the air, and there are many people enjoying the lively atmosphere. As I walk through the crowd, I feel the vibrant energy of the city, where every corner has its own story to tell.