FAQ

• How do you pronounce Cheng Man-ch’ing’s name?
Cheng Man-ch’ing’s name is properly pronounced “djung mahn ching,” however, it is commonly pronounced “ch’eng mahn ch’ing.” The pinyin spelling is Zheng Manqing. Regardless of the spelling system used, his name is 鄭曼青 (simplified characters: 郑曼青).
This website uses pinyin spelling throughout, with the exception of familiar names such as Cheng’s.  Taijiquan 太極拳 (also written as “t’ai chi ch’uan”) is pronounced “tie-gee-chwan.”

• When was Cheng Man-ch’ing born?
According to his memorial book, Cheng Man-ch’ing was born in the 28th year of the Guangxu Emperor’s reign, Sixth Month, on the 25th day. This corresponds to July 29, 1902. This is corroborated by his being a “Tiger,” following the Chinese zodiac.

• What other names did Cheng Man-ch’ing go by?
Like many Chinese artists, Cheng Man-ch’ing used a variety of names and pen names. His given name was Yueh (pinyin: Yue 岳); he later took the name Man-ch’ing (Manqing 曼青), which means “luxuriant and verdant.” In his fifties, he took the name Man-jan (Manran 曼髯, pronounced “mahn-rahn”), which means “luxuriant whiskers.” He often signed his paintings with his moniker “Hermit of the Jade Well” (Yü-ching shan-jen / Yujing shanren 玉井山人).

• What other resources are available about Cheng Man-ch’ing?
For a list of Cheng Man-ch’ing’s books, videos, and movies, as well as works by his students, visit our Writings page.

• When will the Cheng Man-ch’ing biography be published?
A biography requires a great amount of time for research, analysis, and writing. This project has been in progress for a number of years. A publication date will be announced when closer to completion. Meanwhile, you can follow our News page.

• Where can I find a Cheng Man-ch’ing lineage taijiquan (t’ai chi ch’uan) class?
You can check our Links page for 
online resources, or, ask around for recommendations. Numbers of his direct students do not have websites.