There are numerous subdialects of Hakka due to its geographical distribution and local influences on its speakers. Hakkas are spread in almost 180 prefectures in one-third of the provinces in China. The Meixian subdialect is considered to be the standard Hakka dialect. Not all Hakkas are able to speak the Hakka dialect today. In spite of this, the Hakka identity is still strong.
Hakka women are well-known for being independent, strong and sacrificial.
They are also much praised for their physical prowess and sturdiness. As most Hakkas are poor mountain-dwellers, many of the men have to find work away from home to support their families. In the past, the men had to plan for migratory routes and to defend their homes against intruders. Consequently, the women had to shoulder all the heavy work in addition to the household chores. Decision-making was often left to the most elderly woman in the family.