This new edition of Chinese: An Essential Grammar is an up-to-date & concise reference guide to modern Chinese grammar. Jargon free it presents an accessible description of the language focusing on the real patterns of use today. This Grammar aims to serve as a reference source for the learner & user of Chinese irrespective of level setting out the complexities of the language in short readable sections. It is ideal either for independent study or for students in schools colleges universities & adult classes of all types. Features include: a new chapter on paragraph development Chinese characters as well as the pinyin romanization alongside all examples literal & colloquial translations in English to illustrate language points detailed contents list & index for easy access to information a glossary of grammatical terms.