SmartHanzi 2023.10

SmartHanzi is a free, professional-grade application designed for students and individuals interested in engaging with authentic Chinese texts, including those found online and in PDF format, even if their proficiency in Chinese is limited.

The app incorporates comprehensive Chinese dictionaries for English, French, and German speakers, as well as succinct definitions from the Digital Dictionary of Buddhism (DDB) and CJKV-E (Dictionary of Confucian, Daoist, and Intellectual Historical Terms).

PARSE AND LOOKUP

One of SmartHanzi's standout features is its immediate access to unknown vocabulary. While not primarily a learning tool, it provides connections to related words along with detailed character information, such as stroke order and etymology. This additional context facilitates a deeper understanding of words and characters.

SmartHanzi adeptly recognizes both simplified and traditional character variants and can distinguish between multiple traditional forms. For example, inputting the character 真 will yield results for both 真 and 眞 according to the chosen dictionaries. Similarly, it accurately identifies variations such as 為 / 爲 and 眾 / 衆.

TESTS

To aid learners in tracking their progress, SmartHanzi includes assessments based on HSK levels. These tests are compact, with an option to review mistakes first. Users can opt for lengthier tests or focus on reviewing uncertain vocabulary or confirming known words over a 12-month timeline.

ETYMOLOGY

Etymology serves as a vital tool not just for scholars but for anyone engaging with Chinese writing. Over centuries, the evolution of Chinese characters has established numerous reference points that are widely recognized within the language community. Attempting to learn Chinese writing without considering these etymological insights would present significant challenges. The app provides valuable etymological information and character series that highlight these essential reference points.

Dictionaries

While SmartHanzi offers a more limited selection compared to major commercial applications, it is regarded as best in class for its intended use.

USER INTERFACE

The user interface allows for easy customization of lookup preferences, ensuring that users can view only the most relevant details while maintaining clarity in presentation. On tablet devices, SmartHanzi supports landscape mode, enabling full-screen use or multitasking alongside other applications.

MAC VERSION

In addition to its availability on mobile platforms, SmartHanzi can also be downloaded from the Mac App Store.