HSK 1 is your gateway to Chinese proficiency, requiring just 150 carefully selected words. Master these, and you'll handle basic greetings, introductions, and simple daily conversations. Here's how to learn them efficiently and effectively.
The HSK 1 Word Categories
HSK 1 vocabulary falls into practical categories designed for immediate use. Pronouns (我, 你, 他, 她) let you talk about people. Numbers (一 through 十, plus 百 for hundred) enable basic math and dates. Time words (今天, 明天, 昨天) help you discuss schedules. Question words (什么, 哪, 几) let you ask for information.
High-Frequency Essential Words
Some HSK 1 words appear constantly in Chinese conversation. 是 (to be), 有 (to have), 在 (to be at/in), and 很 (very) are grammatical building blocks you'll use in almost every sentence. Verbs like 吃 (eat), 喝 (drink), 看 (see/watch), 听 (listen), and 说 (speak) cover basic actions.
Common Learning Challenges
Certain HSK 1 words trip up learners repeatedly. 那 (that) and 哪 (which) look similar but mean different things. 他 (he), 她 (she), and 它 (it) sound identical but use different characters. Understanding these distinctions early prevents confusion at higher levels.
Effective Memorization Strategies
Group words by theme for faster learning: all food words together, all family members together, all location words together. Create simple sentences using multiple new words: 我今天吃米饭 (I eat rice today) practices four HSK 1 words at once. Use character components—月 (moon) appears in 朋 (friend) and helps you remember both.
Building to Fluency
Don't just memorize—use. Practice making simple statements about your day, asking basic questions, and responding to greetings. HSK 1 vocabulary is designed for immediate practical application, so put these words to work from day one.
Learn All 150 Words
Avena's HSK 1 course teaches all 150 words with spaced repetition, pronunciation practice, and context sentences.
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