Yue Chinese

Yue Chinese, also known as Cantonese, is a major Chinese language spoken mainly in Guangdong province, Hong Kong, Macau, and overseas Chinese communities. It has its own unique pronunciation, vocabulary, and tones—typically six to nine—that distinguish it from Mandarin. Unlike Mandarin, which uses simplified characters and is more widely spoken in mainland China, Yue Chinese preserves more traditional characters and has rich cultural expressions through music, opera, and cuisine. It is a vital part of Chinese cultural identity, with a complex tonal system and historical significance, making it a distinct and influential branch of Chinese languages.