The Mandarin writing system was different from hieroglyphics or cuneiform in that it -Select-

The Mandarin writing system, also known as Chinese characters, differs from hieroglyphics or cuneiform in several ways:

1. Type of Writing System: Hieroglyphics and cuneiform are both logographic systems, where each symbol represents a word or a concept. Mandarin, on the other hand, is a logographic system as well, but it also incorporates phonetic elements. This means that some characters not only represent a concept but also give an indication of the sound.

2. Complexity: Chinese characters are generally more complex than hieroglyphics or cuneiform symbols. Each character can be composed of several strokes, and there are thousands of characters to learn.

3. Evolution: The Mandarin writing system has evolved over thousands of years and is still in use today, while hieroglyphics and cuneiform are ancient writing systems that are no longer used.

4. Contextual Meaning: In Mandarin, the meaning of a character can change based on the characters around it, which is not the case with hieroglyphics or cuneiform.

5. Radicals: Mandarin uses radicals, or building blocks, to form characters. These radicals can provide hints to a character's meaning or pronunciation. This system is not present in hieroglyphics or cuneiform.

6. Writing Direction: Hieroglyphics can be written in any direction: left to right, right to left, or top to bottom. Cuneiform is typically written from left to right. Mandarin is traditionally written from top to bottom, right to left, but in modern times it is also commonly written from left to right.

So, the Mandarin writing system is different from hieroglyphics or cuneiform in its complexity, evolution, use of contextual meaning, use of radicals, and writing direction.