What Makes Mandarin Difficult to Learn?

Monday, August 7, 2023

Mandarin Chinese can be difficult to learn for a few reasons:

Tonal and Pronunciation Challenge: 

Mandarin Chinese is a tonal language, and mastering the correct pronunciation and intonation for each tone is a significant challenge for non-native speakers. Mandarin has four tones (plus a neutral tone), and the meaning of words can change based on the tone used to pronounce them. Additionally, the absence of certain sounds in Mandarin, such as the distinction between "l" and "r," can make it difficult to distinguish between similar-sounding words, which can make communication challenging.

Writing Challenge:

The writing system of Mandarin Chinese is another significant challenge for many learners. Unlike languages that use alphabets, Mandarin Chinese uses characters, also known as Chinese characters or Hanzi, to represent words or concepts. Learners need to memorize thousands of characters, each with its own stroke order and meaning, in order to read and write in Chinese.

Different Grammar Structure Challenge: 

Mandarin Chinese has a different grammatical structure compared to many Western languages, and this presents a challenge for learners. For example, Chinese does not have complex verb conjugations or noun declensions, and also there are no articles, or plurals, which can be a relief for some learners. Understanding and applying Chinese grammar rules can take time and practice. It's important to study and familiarize yourself with the basic sentence structures, verb usage, and the use of measure words.

While learning Mandarin Chinese may present challenges for some learners, its simplicity in certain aspects can also be an advantage. However, with dedication, practice, and the right resources, it is possible to overcome these challenges and become proficient in Mandarin.

 

Sign up for a free trial now!

FAQ / Tips

We offer secure and convenient payment options, including PayPal. PayPal is a widely recognized and trusted online payment platform that provides a secure way to make transactions. We also follow industry-standard security protocols to ensure the safety of your personal and financial information.
Before starting any Chinese language course, the teacher will assess your Chinese language proficiency level through a placement test.This helps to determine your current level of understanding and ability in Chinese, and allows the teacher to tailor the course materials and teaching methods to your specific needs and goals. The placement test may include assessments of your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.Based on the results of the test, the teacher will be able to recommend an appropriate course of study for you.
We offer highly flexible class schedules that cater to your needs, with lessons available from 7am to 10pm Beijing time, seven days a week.This allows you to conveniently take lessons at any time and from any location that suits your schedule.
No, the tuition fees you have paid cover all costs.There are no additional fees or hidden charges. We strive to be transparent and upfront with our pricing, ensuring that our clients receive the best value for their investment.
Our Chinese learning method is focused on personalized and interactive one-on-one lessons with a professional teacher. The lessons are conducted live through our online teaching platform, which allows you to see and talk to the teacher. You can schedule the lessons at a time that suits you, and the teacher will tailor the lesson content to your specific needs and goals. During the lesson, you can ask questions and receive feedback from the teacher to ensure you understand and master the knowledge and skills being taught. We also have a student service team and academic coordinator team to assist you with your learning and provide any additional support you may need.Overall, our method is designed to be flexible, personalized, and interactive to help you achieve your language learning goals.
Thank you for choosing Chinese Learning for your language learning needs.If you need to cancel or reschedule a lesson, please do so at least 4 hours ahead of time. To request a cancellation, please send an email to ivy.wang @chineselearning.com or service @chineselearning.com.We appreciate your cooperation and understanding, and we look forward to providing you with the best learning experience possible."