Common English Mistakes in Journal Entries by Mandarin Chinese Speakers

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

Mistake Example #1

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

TodayI went to the night market with myfriends. It is always so much fun to try different foods and see all the colorful stalls. FI feel very lucky to have such avibrant culture in Taiwan.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"I added the subject to the beginning of some of the sentences and made a few additional changes. Nice job!"

Today I went to the night market with my friends. It is always so much fun to try different foods and see all the colorful stalls. I feel very lucky to have such a vibrant culture in Taiwan.

Today went to the night market with friends. Is always so much fun to try different foods and see all the colorful stalls. Feel very lucky to have such vibrant culture in Taiwan.

Mistake Example #2

Using overly formal or direct language

Today, Ia'm feeling vrerally happygood because I finishave completed my work tasks with greatefficienctly. I believe it isimportant to mayintain high productiveisthe keylevels to reachieveng success in life. I will nNow, prI’m gocing to takesomedtime to enjoy asomething leisfuren activitys toa rewardmyself for my hard work.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to sound a bit more native and natural."

Today, I'm feeling really good because I finished my work tasks efficiently. I believe staying productive is the key to reaching success in life. Now, I’m going to take some time to enjoy something fun as a reward for my hard work.

Today, I am feeling very happy because I have completed my work tasks with great efficiency. I believe it is important to maintain high productivity levels to achieve success in life. I will now proceed to enjoy a leisure activity to reward myself for my hard work.

Mistake Example #3

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

Today I went to the night market, and there are so many interesting things to see. There isare a lot of food stalls, and each one haves a different delicious snack. I also met some friends there, and we had a great time exploring together.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking for proper usage of singular vs. plural nouns, among other fixes."

Today I went to the night market and there are so many interesting things to see. There are a lot of food stalls and each one has a different delicious snack. I also met some friends there and we had a great time exploring together.

Today I went to the night market, and there are so many interesting thing to see. There is a lot of food stalls, and each one have different delicious snack. I also met some friend there, and we had a great time exploring together.