Pinyin (the phonetic romanization of Mandarin) is essential for learning pronunciation and tones, it is the foundation. But to truly function in Mandarin, reading menus, WeChat messages, signs, contracts, characters become necessary. At Targumi, we teach both in parallel from the start: spoken priority in the first 3 months, then progressive ramp-up on characters. Characters are not random: many have a visual logic (the 氵radical tied to water, 木 wood, 火 fire) that makes them easier to memorize.

Are the 4 tones of Mandarin really that difficult?

Honestly: yes in the first few weeks, no after 2 to 3 months of consistent practice. The Western brain isn't used to distinguishing tones as lexical information. The method: expose the ear massively from the start (active listening, dictations, repetitions with immediate feedback), and pair each tone with a visual and physical representation. Our native teachers have been teaching tones to Westerners for years and use proven techniques. After 2 months, the distinction becomes automatic.

What is the difference between Simplified and Traditional Mandarin?

Spoken Mandarin is identical, the distinction concerns writing only. Mainland China uses Simplified characters (1950s-60s reform), which are faster to write. Taiwan, Hong Kong, and historical Chinese diasporas use Traditional characters, which are visually richer and closer to their original etymology. For most learners targeting Mainland China or Sino-French business, Simplified is recommended, and amply sufficient.

Can you prepare for the HSK with Targumi?

Yes. The HSK (Hànyǔ Shuǐpíng Kǎoshì) is the official certification from the Chinese government, ranging from HSK 1 (150 words, beginner) to HSK 6 (5,000+ words, advanced). HSK 4 is generally required for studies in China; HSK 5-6 for professional positions at Sino-French companies. Our preparation tracks cover level-specific vocabulary, targeted grammar, and simulations of real exam conditions. Since 2021, the HSK reform has introduced levels 7-9 for experts.

Why is Mandarin a strategic investment?

China is the world's second-largest economy and is expected to become the largest by 2030-2035. Trade between France and China exceeds 70 billion euros per year. Mandarin-speaking professionals are scarce and in high demand in import-export, logistics, luxury (China = 40% of the global luxury market), agri-food, and technology. An HSK 4-5 on a resume in these sectors represents a significant, and often decisive, differentiator.

Is Mainland Mandarin different from Taiwanese or Singaporean Mandarin?

Standard Mandarin (Putonghua in China, Guoyu in Taiwan, Huayu in Singapore) is mutually intelligible across all three regions. The differences are minor: some vocabulary terms (taxi = 出租车 in China, 計程車 in Taiwan), slightly different pronunciations for certain words, and the writing system (Simplified vs. Traditional). At Targumi, our teachers come from both Mainland China and Taiwan, you choose based on your goal.

How long does it take to learn Mandarin Chinese?

For an English or French speaker, reaching a B1 conversational level in Mandarin takes roughly 18 to 24 months with regular classes. The 4 tones are mastered in 2 to 3 months; the first simple conversations become possible after 4 to 6 months. Chinese grammar is in fact very simple (no conjugation, no gender). With Targumi, progress is accelerated thanks to small groups and speaking practice from the very first lesson.

Can you learn Chinese on your own?

Basic vocabulary and grammar are accessible through self-study. But Mandarin's 4 tones absolutely require real-time human feedback, something an app simply cannot provide. A mispronounced tone completely changes the meaning of a word. Our native Targumi teachers correct your tones from the very first class in small groups, which dramatically accelerates phonetic mastery.

How much do Mandarin Chinese courses cost on Targumi?

Targumi offers 3 plans: monthly, quarterly, and lifetime access. All plans include live small-group classes with native teachers, interactive lessons, and the community. See full pricing on the pricing page.

Are the Mandarin Chinese courses online or in person?

100% online. Live classes happen in small groups via Google Meet. You can join from anywhere in the world. The mobile and web app stay accessible 24/7 for interactive lessons.

Is there a money-back guarantee?

Yes. Targumi offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. If you are not satisfied, just email [email protected] for a full refund.

How do I cancel my subscription?

You can cancel anytime from your profile (“My subscriptions” section) with no hidden fees. Your access stays active until the end of your paid period.

Resources

All Mandarin Chinese resources

Explore our free tools to progress outside of class.

Mandarin Chinese level test

Assess your CEFR level in 5 minutes. 30-day learning plan included.

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Mandarin Chinese survival kit

A hundred words and thirty key phrases as a printable PDF, free.

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Mandarin Chinese cultural quiz

How well do you know Mandarin Chinese culture? Films, music, traditions.

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Mandarin Chinese articles

Guides and articles to learn Mandarin Chinese.

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Mandarin Chinese vocabulary

Essential words and phrases organized by theme.

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Cultural resources

Podcasts, movies, TV shows and music to progress through immersion.

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Guides & articles

Guides to learn Mandarin Chinese

Beginner Guide

How to Learn Mandarin Chinese as a Complete Beginner (2026 Guide)

Mandarin Chinese seems intimidating, but it's more learnable than you think. Here's an honest, practical guide for complete beginners , with timelines, methods, and exactly where to start.

11 min read→Practical Guide

How to Learn Mandarin Chinese Quickly: Complete Beginner Guide (2026)

Mandarin seems impossible. It is not. Discover a structured method to learn Mandarin Chinese fast , tones, characters, grammar, and a 6-month action plan.

15 min read→Beginner Guide

How to Learn Chinese Characters: A Practical Guide for Beginners

Learn Chinese characters (hanzi) efficiently. Covers radicals, stroke order, memorization techniques, and how many characters you actually need.

10 min read→Guide

Best Way to Learn Mandarin Chinese in 2026: What Actually Works

A realistic guide to learning Mandarin Chinese. Tones, characters, immersion strategies, and how native teachers help you avoid the most common pitfalls.

15 min read→

See all articles→

Reviews

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“got transferred to our Shanghai office in jan, had 2 months to not look completely clueless. colleagues said my accent was 'cute' — does that count?”

Idriss B.Verified purchase

“Graphic designer, Mandarin gives me access to this country's creative market. Stimulating collaborations.”

Patrick DupontVerified purchase

“Good Mandarin teacher and pace. Revision PDFs could use some more detail.”

Leila GarciaVerified purchase

“During my recovery, I proved to my kids you're never too busy to learn.”

Laura DupontVerified purchase

“After my divorce, I rediscovered the power of a simple, measurable, weekly goal.”

Bjorn EspositoVerified purchase

“When a native told me "you speak Mandarin well", I went the other way: I said "thanks" in the original language, no hesitation.”

Andrea H.Verified purchase

“Mandarin signup took 3 minutes. Next day I had my first class. Zero administrative friction.”

Celine ZhouVerified purchase

“After 5 months of Mandarin, I can present a project to an audience. Targumi kept its promise.”

Akua DupontVerified purchase

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A complete learning platform: learn to build sentences, listen to audio to pronounce correctly, practice with exercises.
Regular live small-group classes: real practice. Schedule on the platform, everything on replay so you never miss out. Join in or not, no obligation.
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