Beginners
You can say and understand some words and phrases.
-------It is a good day today;I can tell you it is a 晴天(qing2tian1,sunny day) in Chinese if I still remember the word.
Elementary
You can travel and shop, and talk about familiar subjects.
-------I have basic knowledge of Chinese, what I need is to accumulate more phrases and vocabulary during my learning.
Intermediate
You can function at a basic level at work and in social situations.
-------I know what the latest news in China Radio International; I am quite interested in communicating with others on hot topics. But I need to prepare relative glossary if I am not familiar in that area
Upper-Intermediate
You are quite comfortable in most situations even if you lack full control.
-------Except I can express myself freely, I understand the Chinese culture deeply, and I am quite willing to discuss any topic with local people.