Huayu

Huayu, written 華語/华语, is a term used in Chinese-speaking communities to refer to the Chinese language, particularly Mandarin, as distinct from other Chinese languages such as Cantonese or Hokkien. The term is common in Taiwan and in Singapore and Malaysia, where it is often used in education and media to denote Mandarin-language programs and content. It may also be used in broader international contexts to denote Chinese-language studies.

Etymology and scope: 华 means "China" or "Chinese," and 语 means "language." The compound emphasizes the language of Chinese-speaking communities rather than regional dialects. While Huayu is widely understood as referring to Mandarin in many contexts, its exact sense can vary by region and institution.

Usage: In Taiwan, 华语 is standard terminology for Mandarin Chinese in education and public discourse. In Singapore and Malaysia, 华语 refers to Mandarin as the Chinese language taught in schools and used in media, with other varieties often labeled as "dialects." In Mainland China, 汉语 or 普通话 are more commonly used terms, though 华语 remains recognizable in certain contexts, especially in cultural or international settings.

Institutions and programs: The term appears in language-education branding and media. The Taiwan Ministry of Education runs the Huayu Enrichment Scholarship (HES) to attract international students to study Mandarin in Taiwan. Universities around the world also offer Chinese-language programs branded as Huayu courses or study pathways.

See also: Chinese language, Mandarin Chinese, Putonghua, Hanyu.