Southern Chinese dialects refer to a group of Chinese languages spoken primarily in the southern regions of China, including provinces like Guangdong, Fujian, and Zhejiang. These dialects, such as Cantonese and Hokkien, are distinct from Mandarin, the official language of China. They often have unique phonetic, lexical, and grammatical features, making them difficult for Mandarin speakers to understand. These dialects are not merely variations of Mandarin but are considered separate languages with rich cultural histories. Southern Chinese dialects are also spoken in overseas Chinese communities, particularly in countries like Malaysia and Singapore, where they contribute to the local cultural landscape.