ChinaIntermediate
Getting a taxi in China with a friend in English
Everyday English for getting a taxi in China with a friend. Key line: “Hi, is it *easy* to *get* a *taxi* around *here*?”
Full script
Lin
Hi, is it easy to get a taxi around here?
Them
Usually, yes, but rush hour can be a little rough.
Lin
We're with a friend, and he's already waving like crazy.
Them
Tell him to watch for the green light on top.
Lin
Got it. Should we just wait here or walk up?
Them
Walk to the main road; taxis slow down there.
Lin
Thanks. If he waves any harder, he'll flag a bus.
Them
Then your friend might get a tour of the whole city.
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
in this area
✓ around herein this area
Useful for asking about this area
peak traffic time
✓ rush hourpeak traffic time
Used for morning or evening traffic
green light
✓ watch for the green lightlook for the green top light
Often means the taxi is free
main road
✓ Walk to the main road.Walk to the main road.
Better place to catch a taxi
Quick answers
in this area: what to say in English
Say “around here” — in this area. Useful for asking about this area.
peak traffic time: what to say in English
Say “rush hour” — peak traffic time. Used for morning or evening traffic.
green light: what to say in English
Say “watch for the green light” — look for the green top light. Often means the taxi is free.
main road: what to say in English
Say “Walk to the main road.” — walk to the main road. Better place to catch a taxi.