Phrases
59 of 62 communication situations
You need help but don't know how to ask
Start with a polite opener, state the need briefly, show the problem, then thank them.
A polite opener changes everything.
What you'll see
If you need help but freeze on how to begin, a simple script unlocks it:
You need help but cannot start the conversation.
你需要帮助，却开不了口。
Severity: L3 (scenario). This is a communication situation, not an app error code.
Why it happens
Strangers are usually willing to help; the hard part is the first polite sentence in Chinese.
Fastest fix, free:
Show “打扰一下，我需要帮助。谢谢。” to open the conversation politely.
Last verified: 2026-09-20 ·
Confidence:
Multiple sources (pending first-hand verification)
The full fix sequence (free)
- Open politely with “打扰一下” to get attention.
- State the need briefly — “我需要帮助” or “我迷路了”.
- Show the specific problem — point at a map, photo, or gesture.
- Always end with “谢谢” (thank you).
When phrases alone aren't enough
In the kit
When you freeze on how to ask, the kit gives the opener-to-thanks script in clear Chinese.
1. The lookup table
The polite opener and help phrases, with when to use each.
2. The trigger matrix
Which situation needs which phrase.
3. Offline printable version
The whole phrase kit as a printable card.
If nothing works
If they still seem unsure:
- Show the same request in a translation app.
- Approach another person or a uniformed staff member.
- Write the key words on your phone and show them.
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