HSK 1 Vocabulary List
127 words · A1 · Mandarin Chinese
HSK 1 is the entry point of Mandarin study: 127 high-frequency words covering greetings, numbers, family, food, and everyday objects. These are the words you will hear in your first week in China.
Study tip
Focus on recognising the tones rather than writing the characters. All 127 HSK 1 words are free inside ToneDeck - drill each one with audio until the pinyin feels automatic.
Practise HSK 1 tones with audio
ToneDeck plays every word with native audio and colours pinyin by tone. HSK 1 is free - no account needed.
Start freeAll 127 HSK 1 words
Pinyin colour key: tone 1 (high flat), tone 2 (rising), tone 3 (dipping), tone 4 (falling), neutral/mixed.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to learn HSK 1 vocabulary?+
Most learners cover HSK 1 in 4-8 weeks with 15-20 minutes of daily practice. Spaced repetition cuts that time by surfacing words just before you forget them.
Do I need to learn the characters for HSK 1?+
Not immediately. Mastering the pinyin pronunciation and tones first is more useful for speaking. Add character recognition once the sounds feel solid.
What comes after HSK 1?+
HSK 2 adds 135 words around travel, shopping, and basic conversation. Together, HSK 1 and 2 give you enough Mandarin to handle simple daily situations.
Is HSK 1 enough to have a conversation?+
For very simple exchanges - yes. You can greet people, order food, and ask basic questions. Real conversation opens up at HSK 3 and beyond.
Other HSK vocabulary lists
Ready to train your Mandarin tones?
ToneDeck combines this vocabulary with audio drills, spaced repetition, and an ear-training quiz so you learn the sounds, not just the definitions.
Start free - HSK 1 includedNew to Mandarin tones? Read how to learn the four Mandarin tones or go back to the ToneDeck home page.