Some Chinese consonants are rather similar to English consonants, but it's important to hear the differences and get all details as accurate as possible!

How to read: x
'x' is analogous to the sound of 'sh' in the English word 'sheep', but with the lip corners tightened up backwards. It is similar to 'sh' in the English 'sheep' - tongue is positioned below lower teeth. 

Phrases:
西瓜xī ɡuā:watermelon
xiào:smile