Give Languages as a Gift in 2025: A Life-Changing Gift

2024 is coming to an end, it has gone by very quickly! Now is the time to look ahead to 2025 with enthusiasm and great resolutions. What a better way to start the new year than by giving your loved ones something unforgettable and useful? Learning a new language is not only a unique detail, but also an investment in your personal and professional future.

What We Offer at Hanyu: Quality and Flexibility

Give Languages as a Gift in 2025: At Hanyu Chinese School, our mission is to transform language learning into an accessible, effective, and exciting experience. For just €67.99 per month, you'll get:

• 4 private lessons per month to make progress at your own pace.
• Up to 32 group classes to practice with other students.
• Access to our interactive platform with recorded classes to study at any time.
• Master-classes and exam preparation designed to ensure success.
• Podcasts and extra mentoring to complement your learning.
• Personalized attention to answer all your questions.

⭐ Why Choose Hanyu?

• We are the best rated academy in Spain.
  • Trustpilot: 4.9 stars
  • Google: 4.9 stars
• We have expert teachers and comprehensive programs designed for all levels.
• We offer a proven methodology that combines interaction, technology and personalized advice.

How to Give This Special Gift?

It's very simple:

• Visit our hanyuchineseschool.com website and request a free trial class.
• Or you can write to us directly on WhatsApp: +34936940081.
• Remember that you can learn the languages you want with us.

Make of this gift something unique and practical that your loved ones will cherish for a lifetime.

The Benefits of Learning a New Language

Give Languages as a Gift in 2025: Learning a language not only allows you to communicate with people from other cultures, but also transforms your life in unexpected ways. Here are some of the most important advantages of mastering a new language:

Personal and Professional Benefits

• It improves your memory and concentration, strengthening your mental capacity.
• Increase your job opportunities, especially in an increasingly globalized world.
• It opens doors to new cultural experiences, from travel to understanding movies and music in their original language.

Personal and Social Enrichment

• Connect with people from all over the world, making international friends and networks.
• Develops problem-solving skills, by thinking more creatively and flexibly.
• It allows you to enjoy the literature and traditions of other countries without language barriers.

Learning a new language is much more than just words, it is a tool to build a brighter future!

Start the Year with a Gift Worth a Lifetime

Give Languages as a gift in 2025: don't miss the opportunity to give something truly meaningful this 2025. A bright future awaits, make it happen with Hanyu and Trainlang!

If you have any questions or concerns, leave us a comment here. We'll be happy to help you choose the perfect gift!

Today, there are more reasons than ever to learn Mandarin Chinese. With all the changes the world has experienced the Chinese language remains an extremely valuable tool that brings benefits to both children and adults. And not to mention the value it has for companies that offer Chinese courses for their employees. Here are five benefits of learning Mandarin Chinese.

1. Improves cognitive development

One of the benefits of learning Mandarin Chinese is that it not only broadens linguistic horizons but also stimulates cognitive development, especially in children. Studies have shown that learning a language as complex and unique as Chinese activates both hemispheres of the brain, which in turn boosts creativity, improves problem-solving skills, and enhances memory.

Because of its visually distinctive characters and tonal system, the process of learning Chinese requires a different mental approach than alphabetic languages. This promotes greater mental acuity and cognitive flexibility. Even for adults, this challenge can keep the brain active and healthy, helping to prevent cognitive decline associated with aging.

2. Makes it easier to learn other languages

Another benefit of learning Chinese is that it can be as a stepping stone to learning other languages. The complexity of Chinese, with its distinctive syntax and grammar, teaches students how to approach language learning in a structured and effective manner. This ability to adapt to the peculiarities of such a unique language prepares students to successfully learn other languages, especially those whose linguistic roots are different.

For example, students who are fluent in Chinese often find it easier to learn other Asian languages such as Japanese or Korean, which share certain cultural and linguistic similarities. In addition, by getting used to learning a non-phonetic language students develop visual memorization and pattern recognition skills, useful for learning other languages in the future.

3. Career and educational opportunities

Learning Mandarin Chinese opens numerous doors in the professional field. With the continued growth in many countries of international trade with China, speaking Chinese has become a great advantage for those looking to improve their career prospects. China has one of the largest and fastest-growing economies in the world, and the ability to communicate in Mandarin is seen as a great asset by many global companies.

One of the main benefits of learning Chinese is that, in sectors such as technology, finance, manufacturing, and tourism, Chinese-speaking professionals are highly valued. In addition, learning Chinese can facilitate access to student exchange programs and scholarships, allowing students to live and study in China, experiencing first-hand one of the oldest and richest cultures in the world. These programs not only enrich the academic experience, but also enhance inter-cultural skills and expand international contact networks.

4. Cultural Enrichment and Travel Experiences

Knowing the Chinese language allows you to dive deeper into China's rich and diverse culture. Whether you are traveling to China for business or pleasure, you will see another benefit of learning Chinese, since speaking Mandarin will give you a much more authentic and enriching experience.

You will be able to interact directly with the locals, understand their history and customs, and enjoy Chinese literature, cinema, music and cuisine without language barriers. For example, one of the benefits of learning Chinese culturally is that you can understand restaurant menus or enjoy movies in their original language giving you a deeper perspective. In addition, speaking Chinese will allow you to get to know less touristic cities and regions, allowing for a broader and more meaningful exploration of the country.

5. Expanding Business Opportunities

If you want to work in a company, the benefits of learning Chinese are many, as it represents a golden opportunity. Many Chinese companies are established in Europe, creating a constant demand for Chinese-speaking personnel and products that adapt to the needs of the Chinese market. In addition, Chinese tourism has grown significantly, offering opportunities in sectors such as luxury, gastronomy, catering, and real estate.

For example, hotels and restaurants that have Chinese-trained staff can provide better service to Chinese tourists, improving their experience and increasing customer loyalty. Another benefit of learning Chinese is that companies in sectors such as fashion and luxury can expand their reach into the Chinese market, customizing their products and services to meet the cultural preferences of Chinese consumers.

Finally, among the benefits of learning Chinese is the possibility of participating in international fairs, business events and e-commerce platforms that connect directly with the Asian market, which maximizes the competitiveness of companies in a global environment.

Conclusion

We mentioned just 5 benefits of learning Chinese, but there are many more, now the question is: Are you ready to take the plunge and learn Mandarin Chinese? At Hanyu Chinese School, we offer you a wide variety of courses designed to meet your specific needs. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your goals and immerse yourself in a new culture! Find out more without obligation and discover how Mandarin Chinese can open the doors to a world full of possibilities.

Do you like learning with videos? Subscribe to our channel and don't miss any of our content! Watch the following video.

Do you enjoy podcasts? Our weekly programs will help you to improve your Chinese and discover more about China.

If you're thinking about learning Mandarin Chinese, it's normal to wonder how long it takes to learn the language. The answer to this question depends on multiple factors such as the teaching method, the frequency of classes and the student's personal dedication. However, it is possible to reach the first levels of proficiency in Mandarin Chinese in less time than you might imagine.

Factors that influence language learning time

The time it takes to learn Chinese is not a fixed figure; it varies according to individual and educational circumstances. Some of the most relevant factors include:

• Personal capabilities: each person learns at a different pace. Memory retention capacity, familiarity with other tonal languages, and previous experience in language learning are elements that can speed up or slow down the process.
• Teaching method: the approach an academy decides to take plays a crucial role. An interactive method, with a good balance between theory and practice, can make a big difference in how quickly you become fluent.
• Frequency and quality of classes: the number of classes per week and personalized attention are decisive factors. Frequent classes adapted to the needs of the student allow for faster and more effective learning.

The time needed to learn Chinese varies depending on factors such as dedication, immersion in the language, and consistency in daily practice. Taking advantage of additional resources such as apps, conversation exchange and cultural exhibitions can also significantly shorten how long it takes to learn Chinese, allowing you to move more effectively toward fluency.

How long does it take to learn Chinese by reaching HSK 1, HSK 2 and HSK 3 levels?

HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi) exams are a common benchmark for measuring your progress in Mandarin Chinese. Below, we break down how long it might take to reach the first levels of HSK.

HSK 1: Basic level

The HSK level 1 is the first step to learn Mandarin Chinese, equivalent to level A1 of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). In many schools, reaching this level may require a full academic year with one or two group classes per week, which can take several months.

How long does it take to reach HSK 1 level? With an intensive program, it is possible to reach this level in as little as 5 weeks. This is achieved by combining high-quality one-on-one classes, themed group classes and daily exercises using online learning platforms.

HSK 2: Lower Intermediate level

The HSK level 2 allows the student to use approximately 300 words and understand everyday sentences. In traditional schools, this level may require a full year of studying two hours per week in group lessons.

However, how long does it take to achieve an HSK level 2 if you choose a more comprehensive method? With an intensive course, it is possible to achieve this level in just 2-3 months thanks to a program that includes individual lessons, daily exercises, and pedagogical methods directed towards continuous practice.

HSK 3: Intermediate level

The HSK 3 sets the student an intermediate level in learning Chinese, with a vocabulary of 600 words and the ability to understand simple texts. Traditionally, schools require up to two years of group study to reach this level, with two hours per week lesson time.

However how long does it take to reach a HSK level 3 in an intensive and personalized program? In some cases, it is possible to reach this level in as little as 3-6 months through an approach that includes 60-80 individual lessons, accompanied by daily exercises and group lessons.

Conclusion: How long does it take to learn Chinese?

In summary, when it comes to answering how long it takes to learn Chinese the time varies widely since the study approach, the intensity of the course and personal circumstances must be taken into account. However, with serious commitment and the right method it is possible to reach a level of fluency in Mandarin Chinese in less time than traditionally thought. The learning process can be greatly accelerated in intensive programs that combine individual lessons, daily exercises, and constant immersion in the language.

At Hanyu Chinese School, we understand the importance of effective learning. Our courses are designed to adapt to your individual needs and help you achieve your language goals in the shortest possible time. Whether you're looking for an intensive course or a more flexible program, we're here to guide you through every step of your journey to Mandarin Chinese proficiency. So how long does it take to learn Chinese? At Hanyu Chinese School, we offer the fastest way to master Mandarin Chinese and experience the satisfaction of acquiring a new language. Request a free trial today and find out how we can help you achieve fluency in Chinese!

Do you enjoy podcasts? Listen to our weekly episodes to improve your Chinese and continue discovering Chinese culture. Take a look at one of our episodes:

if you enjoy short videos, you can join our channel now. Check out the video below.

Mandarin Chinese is a fascinating and increasingly relevant language in today's globalized world. Although it may seem intimidating at first, there are methods and strategies that can make learning Chinese an accessible and rewarding experience. In this guide, we'll explore the best tips for studying Mandarin Chinese hassle-free, especially aimed at beginners.

Why study Chinese?

Before delving into study methods, it's important to understand the reasons for learning Mandarin Chinese:

• Job opportunities: with China's economic growth, knowing Chinese can open doors to different job opportunities.
• Cultural connections: learning Chinese allows you to understand and appreciate a rich and ancient culture.
• Personal development: studying a language so different from English can be a great intellectual challenge and a way to improve your cognitive skills.

Effective Methods to Study Chinese

Start with pinyin

Pinyin is the romanization system of Mandarin Chinese. Learning pinyin is essential to be able to pronounce Chinese words correctly. It will help you become familiar with the sounds of the language before tackling the characters.

Learn the tones

Mandarin Chinese has four main tones and one neutral tone. These tones can completely change the meaning of a word. Practicing and mastering the tones early on is crucial to being properly understood.

Familiarize yourself with basic characters

Although Chinese has thousands of characters, you don't need to learn them all right away. Start with the most common and useful characters in everyday life. Flashcards and mobile apps can be very effective tools to help you memorice characters.

Use on-line resources

Today, there are a plenty of on-line resources for learning Mandarin Chinese. From APPs, like Duolingo, the Hanyu App , and Anki, to websites like Hanyu Chinese School, ChinesePod, and HelloChinese. There are plenty of options to suit different learning styles.

Practice with native speakers

Consistent practice is key to learning any language. Participate in language exchanges, join study groups, or find a conversation partner. Practicing with native speakers will help you improve your fluency and listening comprehension.

Study strategies

Set clear goals

Having clear goals will keep you motivated. Whether it's passing an HSK exam, having a basic conversation, or reading a book in Chinese, your goals should be specific and achievable.

Create a study schedule

Consistency is critical. Set aside a specific amount of time each day to study Chinese. Even 15-30 minutes daily can make a big difference over time.

Use the immersion technique

Surrounding yourself with the language as much as possible will speed up your learning. Listen to Chinese music, watch Chinese movies or TV shows with subtitles, and try to think in Chinese. The more you immerse yourself in the language, the faster you will learn.

Take classes with qualified teachers

A good teacher can guide you and correct your mistakes, which is essential for effective learning. At Hanyu Chinese School, we offer classes with native and specialized teachers who will help you achieve your goals effectively.

Keep a positive attitude

Learning a new language can be challenging, but it's also very rewarding. Keep a positive attitude and don't get discouraged by mistakes. Every mistake is an opportunity to learn and improve.

Recommended resources

1. Learning Apps: Hanyu App, Duolingo, HelloChinese, Anki.
2. Websites: Hanyu Chinese School, ChinesePod, BBC, Hanyu Campus, Chinese Languages.
3. Online dictionaries: Pleco, Trainchinese, MDBG.
4. Videos and podcasts: Hanyu Podcast, Yoyo Chinese, ChineseClass101.

Conclusion

Studying Mandarin Chinese doesn't have to be complicated. With the right resources and methods, anyone can learn this fascinating language. Remember that the key is in consistent practice and maintaining a positive attitude.

Did you know? In Hanyu every week you have podcasts and videos. Here are some of them so you can get to know us:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Sp8GtQGMNAGlLUtjBcv5X?si=MCprmj8ySUGBpdYbhB4DjQ

We wish you the best in your Mandarin Chinese learning journey!

Introduction

Learning how to use interrogative pronouns in Chinese is essential to start conversations. Knowing how to ask questions is one of the first skills you acquire when learning a new language. If you've decided to learn Chinese, you'll want to know how questions are formed.

Ways to use interrogative pronouns in Chinese

One of the most common ways to use interrogative pronouns in Chinese is to ask open-ended questions that are not answered with a simple "yes" or "no."

Use of the particle 吗 (ma)

The particle 吗 (ma) is used in questions whose answer is "yes" or "no" and is placed at the end of the sentence.

Example:

• 你是西班牙人吗?(Nǐ shì xībānyá rén ma?)
  • Are you Spanish? (Answer: yes/no)

To answer yes to questions with 吗 (ma), you can use:

• The same verb of the question:
  • 你会说西班牙语吗? (Nǐ huì shuō xībānyá yǔ ma?)
  • 会 (huì) - Yes (I speak)
• 是的 (shì de):
  • 你在家吗? (Nǐ zàijiā ma?)
  • 是的 (shì de) - Yes (that's right)
• 对 (duì):
  • 你明天上班吗? (Nǐ míngtiān shàngbān ma?)
  • 对 (duì) - Yes (correct)

To deny, we use 不 (bù):

Example:

• 你喜欢看电视吗? (Nǐ xǐhuān kàn diànshì ma?)
  • 我不喜欢 (wǒ bù xǐhuān) - I don't like it

List of Interrogative Pronouns in Chinese

Interrogative pronouns in Chinese:

Spanish	Chinese
What?	什么 (shén me)
Who?	谁 (shei)
How?	怎样 (zěn yàng)
Where?	哪里 (nǎ lǐ)
Why?	为什么 (wèi shén me)
Which one?	哪一个 (nǎ yī ge)
When?	什么时候 (shén me shí hòu)
How much?	多少 (duō shao)
How many?	几个 (jǐ ge)

Practical examples:

• 你姐姐在哪里?(Nǐ jiějie zài nǎlǐ?)
  • Where's your sister?
• 这是什么?(Zhè shì shén me?)
  • What is this?
• 你今天做了什么菜?Nǐ jīntiān zuòle shénme cài?
  • What did you cook today? | In the context of Chinese cooking
• 你能帮我吗?(Nǐ néng bāng wǒ ma?)
  • Can you help me?
• 这个多少钱?(Zhè ge duō shǎo qián?)
  • How much does this cost?

Conclusion

At Hanyu Chinese School we will be happy to help you learn more about how to ask questions in Chinese or any topic that interests you. Studying this fascinating language can open many doors for you. Contact us and don't forget to ask for your free class!

Looking for interesting videos to learn? Subscribe to our channel and don't miss any news. Watch the next video right now.

Do you love podcasts? Don't miss our weekly programs that will help you perfect your Chinese and explore Chinese culture.

Learn about our method to learn Chinese without complications. Learning Chinese has never been easier!

Learning Chinese has become one of the most valued skills in today's world. Whether for work, cultural or personal reasons, mastering this language can open many doors for you. If you are in Spain and looking for a quality Chinese language school, you are in the right place. Below, we present the 5 best Chinese language schools in Spain.

1. Hanyu Chinese School

Location: Madrid, Gijón, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville and Zaragoza

Description: Hanyu Chinese School is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious Chinese language schools in Spain. With locations in Madrid, Gijón, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville and Zaragoza, this academy stands out for its innovative methodology and its team of highly qualified native teachers. They offer a wide range of courses to suit all levels, from beginner to advanced. In addition, they have intensive programs, private classes and specialized courses for companies.

What sets Hanyu apart from the rest is its unique online campus, which offers numerous tools for students. These include interactive teaching materials, access to personalized tutorials, discussion forums to practice with other students, and a virtual library with additional resources. Hanyu's Online Campus allows students to learn flexibly and effectively, from anywhere and at any time.

Advantages:

• Native teachers with extensive experience.
• Personalized teaching methodology.
• Flexible courses adapted to the needs of each student.
• High success rate in HSK exams.

Try a free class now

2. Confucius Institute

Location: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia.

Description: The Confucius Institute is a global institution backed by the Chinese government, with the aim of promoting the Chinese language and culture. In Spain, they have offices in several cities, offering comprehensive and high-quality training.

Advantages:

• Presence in several cities in Spain.
• Wide range of courses and cultural activities.
• International recognition and support.

3. Enforex

Location: Madrid and Barcelona

Description: Enforex is mainly known for its Spanish courses, but it also offers excellent Chinese language programs. With modern facilities and a focus on cultural immersion, Enforex provides a complete learning experience.

Advantages:

• Modern and well-equipped facilities.
• Focus on cultural immersion.
• Qualified and native teachers.

4. LTL Mandarin School

Location: Madrid

Description: LTL Mandarin School is an academy with a strong international presence and an excellent reputation. They offer intensive courses and immersion programs in both Spain and China, allowing students to experience true language immersion.

Advantages:

• Immersion programs in China.
• Intensive and personalized courses.
• Native teachers with great experience.

5. Speak & Fun Languages

Location: Barcelona

Description: Speak & Fun Idiomas specializes in teaching several languages, including Chinese. Its approach is flexible and adapts to the needs of each student, offering everything from private lessons to courses for companies.

Advantages:

• Flexibility in timetables and types of courses.
• Private lessons available.
• Focus on the specific needs of students.

Chinese Language Academies: Conclusion

Choosing a Chinese language school in Spain can be a challenging task due to the large number of options available. However, academies like Hanyu Chinese School stand out for their academic excellence and personalized approach, making them an ideal choice for anyone who wants to learn Chinese effectively.

What else does Hanyu offer you?

Our academy has native and non-native teachers who will be able to better tailor the classes to your particular needs while putting you in direct contact with Chinese culture and commerce.

Take advantage of studying Chinese in Spain, without having to make major modifications to your routine. That is, close to your home or better yet! in your home or office.

Benefits of studying at Hanyu Chinese School:

• Flexibility: We offer both online and face-to-face classes, adapting to your pace and needs.
• Qualified teachers: We have a team of native and non-native teachers with extensive experience.
• Culture and commerce: In addition to learning the language, you will connect directly with Chinese culture and commerce.
• Guaranteed success: High success rate in HSK exams.

Do you enjoy podcasts? Listen to our weekly episodes to improve your Chinese and discover more about Chinese culture.

Some comments from our students

• "Hanyu Chinese School has exceeded my expectations. The professors are incredibly patient and experts in their field." - Laura G.
• "Thanks to Hanyu, I have been able to improve my Chinese significantly while working. The flexibility of their online classes is unmatched." - Carlos M.
• "Studying in Hanyu has allowed me not only to learn the language, but also to better understand Chinese culture. An enriching experience!" - Ana P.

See more reviews here

Studying Chinese at Hanyu Chinese School will allow you to achieve your language and cultural goals effectively and tailored to your needs. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of our learning community and take the first step towards a future full of possibilities.

No doubt you've noted how, when it comes to China and the Chinese culture, pictures and representations of dragons are a must. So much so, that the China's nickname is "The Red Dragon".

From the stunning imperial palaces at the Forbidden City in Beijing to the amusing Mushu in the Disney movie Mulan, dragons are a key element in the Chinese history and culture.

龙: Lóng, the Chinese dragon

First we must identify the differences between Eastern and Western dragons. Why? Are not dragons just dragons? Well, given they are mythological creatures, different cultures assign different characteristics and appearances.

In Europe, for instance, both in old legends and modern motion pictures portray dragons are portrayed as evil, fire spitting creatures that move around flying with bat's wings.

That's not the case with Asian dragons. In many dynasties on ancient China, yellow or golden dragons were a symbol of emperors. That connection can be seen in the design of imperial palaces and graves, monuments, decorative pieces and even garments.

A bit of history

The most important emperor of the history of China was Huang Di (黃 帝; Huángdì), the "Yellow Emperor". According to tradition, he ruled from 2698 to 2598 BC.

Among his countless achievements are the creation of the Chinese medicine principles, the invention of the bow and arrow, the compass, garments, government institutions and the use of currency.

Tradition and legends have attributed Huang Di so many achievements and accomplishments that his considered a semi-god.

Not only that, he is thought to be the common ancestor of the Chinese people. Therefor the Chinese are called the "descendants of the dragon". Why?

According to the legends, when Huang Di died, a yellow dragon came to carry him away, a dragon who looked very much alike the ones he used in his royal emblems. The dragon tool him away to heaven, when the emperor became immortal.

This story of the mighty and powerful yellow dragon and the wise, virtuous, kind and fair emperor constitutes par of the Chinese culture and even religion. And that is why Western dragons don't have anything in common with the Chinese dragon.

Today, the mysticism and religious veneration is not as strong as it was centuries ago. However, the dragon has a strong presence in Chinese culture. For instance, it is one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. And to have a baby born in the year of the dragon is considered a sign of good luck.

How does the dragon look like?

Within Chinese mythology there are different types of dragons. The "traditional" has parts of nine different animals, such as snake tail, deer horns, fish scales, eagle claws, catfish whiskers. . . Honestly, not the prettiest thing to look at if you ask me!

Surely you have seen it in some monuments or decorations. And if you've been in China or in the Chinatown of any big city, you may have seen it "live" in festivities such as the Chinese New Year, the Dragon Boat Festival or the Dragon Dance.

Chinese culture is so rich and interesting that it seems never-ending. Besides, China is gaining its own place in Western society at a fast pace. That is why more and more people have realized of all the benefits of learning Chinese. Not only for economic reasons but also as part of the education of children.

At Hanyu Chinese School we offer you everything you or your kids need to study this amazing language. Our classes with native speaker accommodate to your needs, pace and interests. Contact us, we are happy to answer all your questions. And don't forget to ask for your free class!

Hanyu Pinyin (汉语拼音; pinyin: hànyǔ pīnyīn), or simply, pinyin, is a phonetic transcription system to "romanize" Chinese. That is, it uses the Latin alphabet to transliterate Chinese characters to make them easier to learn. Simply put, when asked "What is pinyin?", you can say it's a tool to study Chinese.

Why is it so useful?

Think about this: to read English, you had to learn what to do when to vowels appeared next to each other in one syllable, or the doubling rule for spelling rules, and even in some cases you might have had to simply memorize the spelling and pronunciation of certain words... Not easy, to be fair.

Chinese, however and for obvious reasons, is more complicated. As many other languages, there's nothing in its writing that can give you a clue on how to pronounce the words. As you might know, Chinese writing consists of ideograms, that is, characters that represent concepts instead of sounds.

So here it is where pinyin comes to the rescue. Do you remember when you learned to ride a bike with a stabilizer? It made it so much easier!

Well, imagine that pinyin is like that stabilizer wheel. Once you gain confidence and experience you will no longer need it.

What is pinyin's origin?

When the Communist Party came into power in China, illiteracy rate was very high. Therefore, teaching how to read and write to those in disadvantaged circumstances became one of the Party's priority.

The goal was not only to promote and implement inclusion and equality, but also to spread the ideology of Communism throughout the nation.

During the 1950's, the People's Republic of China created a project addressed to the Chinese writing system. On one hand, it was created a committee to simplify characters. This meant reducing the number of strokes each had. That's how "simplified Chinese" was born.

On the other hand, a committee of linguists, leaded by Zhou Youguang (who was actually an economist) developed a phonetic system to represent Chinese sounds with the Latin alphabet.

The good news for us is that they used English pronunciation, instead of French or Spanish ones, which is a great advantage for an English speaker.

Before Pinyin, other systems, like Wade Giles, had been tried to facilitate foreigners to learn to Mandarin Chinese. But Hanyu Pinyin was the one adopted as the official and international romanization system of Mandarin Chinese.

In fact, even the writing of names and surnames uses pinyin, without the tones, and it is the way yo type Chinese characters in computer software and programs.

How does it work?

Pinyin is a phonetic guide. Each letter in the alphabet was assigned a Chinese sound. In essence, it is what happens in languages that use the Latin alphabet, each assigns a particular sound to a letter.

To put an example, the way the letter "R" sounds in English is quite different in Spanish or French despite being the same alphabet. As mentioned before, the good news is that pinyin uses the English pronunciation of the alphabet to reproduce Chinese sounds. Of course, there are sounds that don't exist in English, then is when certain combinations take place.

Does it sound complicated? Not really, on the contrary, pinyin is a invaluable tool. It even helps small kids that learn Chinese language.

Do you remember the day when you realized you no longer needed the stabilizer in your bike? Well, the day will also come when you will be able to reply emails from co-workers in Shanghai, or you will be able to read signs without getting lost!

Now that you know what is pinyin, at Hanyu Chinese School, we are happy to help you master your Chinese skills. With our Chinese teachers who are native speakers, online campus and master classes, you can have your lessons tailored to your needs and circumstances. Contact us, ask for your free class and follow us on social media!