Common English Mistakes in Feature Stories by Mandarin Chinese Speakers

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

Mistake Example #1

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 who selling delicious street food, and—the aroma fills the air with excitement.! Many tourists come to experience the vibrant atmosphere, and there is mucha lot of activity happening all aeveroundywhere. As you walk through the narrow lanes, you can see how the culture and traditions blend with modern life, creating a unique experience that attracts people from all over the world.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some adjusting for proper use of singular and plural nouns."

In the bustling night market of Taipei, there are many vendors who sell delicious street food—the aroma fills the air with excitement! Many tourists come to experience the vibrant atmosphere, and there is a lot of activity happening everywhere. As you walk through the narrow lanes, you can see how the culture and traditions blend with modern life, creating a unique experience that attracts people from all over the world.

In the bustling night market of Taipei, there is much vendor selling delicious street food, and the aroma fills the air with excitement. Many tourist come to experience the vibrant atmosphere, and there is much activity happening all around. As you walk through the narrow lanes, you can see how the culture and tradition blend with modern life, creating a unique experience that attract people from all over the world.

Mistake Example #2

Using overly formal or direct language

In the bustling city of Taipei, the night market is a place of great excitement and joy. It is imperativOne musthat one visits this vibrant location to experience the authentic Taiwanese culture. The market offers a plethora of food options, and it is highly recommended to try the stinky tofu, which is a delicacy of significant importance.

Text corrected by:
Michele A., Boston, Massachusetts; United States

"I changed some of the phrasing to make it sound more straightforward. Otherwise, the ideas in this text are clearly expressed."

In the bustling city of Taipei, the night market is a place of great excitement and joy. One must visit this vibrant location to experience the authentic Taiwanese culture. The market offers a plethora of food options, and it is highly recommended to try the stinky tofu, which is a delicacy of significant importance.

In the bustling city of Taipei, the night market is a place of great excitement and joy. It is imperative that one visits this vibrant location to experience the authentic Taiwanese culture. The market offers a plethora of food options, and it is highly recommended to try the stinky tofu, which is a delicacy of significant importance.

Mistake Example #3

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

In the bustling streets of Taipei,it is common to see people practicing English in cafes and parks. Learning English opens many doors, especially for young professionals who want to work in international companies. It is not just about language skills, but also about understanding different cultures and perspectives.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Good work! I just added the word "it" a couple of times to make the sentences grammatically correct."

In the bustling streets of Taipei, it is common to see people practicing English in cafes and parks. Learning English opens many doors, especially for young professionals who want to work in international companies. It is not just about language skills, but also about understanding different cultures and perspectives.

In the bustling streets of Taipei, is common to see people practicing English in cafes and parks. Learning English opens many doors, especially for young professionals who want to work in international companies. Is not just about language skills, but also about understanding different cultures and perspectives.