Tones

To speak Mandarin, the first thing is to learn Chinese pronunciation of words using the system known as pinyin.Mandarin Chinese has four pitched tones and a "toneless" tone.Each Chinese word (character) carries a tone. Different tones carry different meanings.





First tone: This is the highest tone you can pronounce in a simple and normal way. It is pronounced with a steady pitch.

Second tone: Rising pitch from low to high.

Third tone: First sinking pitch at the same time as the voice is lowered, followed by a rising pitch and stronger voice.

Forth tone: fast sinking pitch with a sharp end.

Toneless: Relax in your mouth and let the tone fall where it is natural.

Here is a link to practice the tones.