The Han people have their own spoken and written languages, namely Chinese. It is the most commonly used language in China, and one of the most commonly used languages in the world. All China's 55 minority peoples have their own languages except the Hui and Manchu who use Chinese; 22 of them have their own scripts, in which 28 languages are written. Nowadays, school classes in predominantly ethnic minority areas are taught in the local language, using local-language textbooks. Meanwhile courses are also set up to popularize Putonghua Chinese - the official national language - which is commonly used throughout the country.
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The official Chinese language is Mandarin (or Putonghua). There are also numerous dialects spoken throughout different parts of China, including Cantonese. The Lonely Planet phrasebook is recommended for those wanting to learn more about Chinese languages. To help you get the most out of your contact with the Chinese, try learning how to say these key phrases:
Mandarin Chinese |
English |
Ni Hao |
Hello (or hi) |
Ni Hao Ma? |
How are you? |
Wo Hen Hao |
I’m fine |
Xie Xie |
Thank you |
Duo Shao Qian? |
How much is …? |
Bu |
No |
Dui |
Yes |
Dui Bu Qi |
Excuse me / I’m sorry |
Mei Guangxi |
No need |
Zai Jian |
Good bye! |
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