HSK 5 Vocabulary List
1298 words · B2 · Mandarin Chinese
HSK 5 is an advanced milestone: 1,298 words including sophisticated vocabulary for business, culture, academia, and nuanced expression. At this level you can read newspapers, write formal emails, and follow most native speech.
Study tip
At HSK 5 you need passive recognition and active production. When reviewing, cover the English and try to produce the Mandarin from the hanzi alone. Context sentences become essential - isolated vocabulary is harder to retain at this density.
Practise HSK 5 tones with audio
ToneDeck plays every word with native audio and colours pinyin by tone. Unlock HSK 2-6 with a Pro subscription.
Start freeAll 1298 HSK 5 words
Pinyin colour key: tone 1 (high flat), tone 2 (rising), tone 3 (dipping), tone 4 (falling), neutral/mixed.
Frequently asked questions
What can I do with HSK 5 Mandarin?+
Read mainstream news, watch most TV without subtitles, write business emails, and hold extended conversations on diverse topics. HSK 5 is the threshold most Chinese universities require for foreign students.
How long does it take to reach HSK 5?+
Intensive learners typically reach HSK 5 after 2-3 years of dedicated study. Casual learners may take 4-5 years. Consistent daily practice is the biggest factor.
Are tones still important at HSK 5?+
Absolutely. Incorrect tones become more disruptive at advanced levels because the vocabulary is dense - a tone error in sophisticated conversation causes real confusion, not just a smile.
What is the HSK 5 exam format?+
The HSK 5 exam tests listening, reading, and writing across 100 questions. The exam vocabulary list has 2,500 words, of which ToneDeck's HSK 5 deck covers 1,298.
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 includedGet the tones right first
Vocabulary only sticks if the tones are accurate. These guides cover the tone system behind every word above.
First, second, third, fourth, neutral.
Why nǐ hǎo is said ní hǎo.
Everyday phrases with tone tips.
New to Mandarin tones? Read how to learn the four Mandarin tones or go back to the ToneDeck home page.