What Language Do They Speak in China?
China
China, known as the People's Republic of China, is the world's most populous country, situated in East Asia. It boasts a rich history spanning thousands of years and has been a cradle of ancient civilization contributing significantly to the world in areas such as philosophy, art, and literature. Today, China is a global powerhouse in economic, technological, and cultural arenas, continuously shaping global dynamics.
Languages Spoken
China is a tapestry of rich linguistic diversity with several major languages spoken throughout its vast regions. Mandarin Chinese, or Putonghua, dominates as the most widely spoken language, accounting for approximately 71.53% of the population. Yue, commonly known as Cantonese, is spoken by about 4.87%, primarily in the Guangdong province and Hong Kong. The Min languages, which include Hokkien and Taiwanese variants, are used by roughly 6.15%, distinguishing themselves with unique phonetic and lexical features. Wu, including Shanghainese, is another significant linguistic group, representing about 7.16% of China's speakers. Hakka, noted for its distinct tones and vocabulary, is spoken by approximately 3.4% of the people, mainly in the southern regions. Xiang, spoken by around 5.22%, and Gan, used by about 2.15%, contribute to China's linguistic richness with their historical and regional specificities.
Different Languages Spoken in China
Language data last updated 2024 est. from World Population Review - China
| Language | Usage |
|---|---|
| Mandarin Chinese | 71.53% |
| Yue (Cantonese) | 4.87% |
| Min (including Hokkien-Taiwanese) | 6.15% |
| Wu (including Shanghainese) | 7.16% |
| Hakka | 3.4% |
| Xiang | 5.22% |
| Gan | 2.15% |
Useful Mandarin Phrases
你好
Hello
A basic greeting used to say hello to someone.
请问，洗手间在哪里？
Excuse me, where is the restroom?
Use this phrase to ask for directions to the restroom.
多少钱？
How much does it cost?
Useful for inquiring about prices when shopping or dining.
我听不懂
I don't understand
Use this phrase to let someone know you are having trouble understanding.
谢谢
Thank you
A polite expression to show gratitude.
Learn to speak Mandarin
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