ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Shanghainese language

Shanghainese is a way of talking that people in the city of Shanghai, in China, use to communicate with each other. It's like a special code that is unique to people who live in that area.

Just like how you speak differently from the grown-ups in your life, people who speak Shanghainese talk differently from other Chinese people. They use different words, pronunciations, and even some grammar rules that are different from the standard Chinese language.

This language has been around for a very long time, and it has evolved over time to reflect the culture of the people who speak it. It's a really interesting way of communicating, and if you ever visit Shanghai, you might hear people using it to talk to each other.

Like other languages, Shanghainese has its own unique features. For example, instead of saying "nǐ hǎo" like standard Chinese, people in Shanghai might say "ńii hɔ" to greet each other. They also use different tones and sounds that you might not hear in other Chinese languages.

It might seem tricky to learn a new language, but it can be a lot of fun too! If you're interested in learning Shanghainese, there are plenty of resources available online to help you get started. Just remember to keep practicing and have fun!