[PDF] chinese language cantonese vs mandarin

Is Mandarin harder than Cantonese?

Mandarin is easier to learn. Cantonese is seen to be more difficult because it has from 6 to 9 tones, each of which signify different things (while Mandarin only has 4 tones). In addition, because of its greater prevalence, it is easier to find Mandarin study materials than Cantonese study materials.

Does Cantonese have a larger vocabulary than Mandarin?

Cantonese has a more abundant vocabulary than Mandarin, and its expression is more vivid.” Now, though, it was becoming “increasingly marginalized”, he said. “Cantonese is not just a language, but for native speakers it is part of our identity.”

What are the differences between Mandarin and Cantonese?

• Cantonese is older of the two languages being in existence 2000 years ago while Mandarin is just 700-800 years ago. • The characters in Mandarin have been simplified in 1950 while characters in Cantonese are still traditional. • Cantonese has 9 tones while mandarin has just 4 making it easier to learn than Cantonese.