How to pronounce PINYIN "x" in Chinese This is a little tricky. But try to practice with this rule: When you pronouce "shee" as in sheep, you are actually making a circle with your tongue and upper jaw in your mouth in the back of your tongue. And when you pronounce "s" as in serve, you are making a circle with your tongue tip and teeth in your mouth in the front of your mouth. Now, what "x" need is a circle that's between the above two, i.e. in the middle of your tongue. Struggle with it! And master it!