Putting it all together, the literal translation is something like “The Middle-Splendor People's Shared-Harmony State,” which is formally translated as the People's Republic of China. The combination of 中华 (Zhōnghuá) provides a culturally rich name for “China,” while 人民共和国 (Rénmín Gònghéguó) defines its modern political structure.
The name 中华人民共和国 is intrinsically linked to the modern history of China. It was proclaimed by Mao Zedong on October 1, 1949, in Tiananmen Square, marking the end of the Chinese Civil War and the founding of the Communist state. The inclusion of 人民 (rénmín - the people) is the most significant political statement within the name. It distinguishes the PRC from the previous government, the 中华民国 (Zhōnghuá Mínguó - the Republic of China). The term 人民 is a cornerstone of socialist ideology, framing the nation as a state governed by and for the working class. A useful comparison for a Western learner is the difference between “America” and “The United States of America.” We use “America” in 99% of daily situations. We only use the full name in highly formal contexts like the pledge of allegiance, on official documents, or in political speeches. Similarly, Chinese people use 中国 (Zhōngguó) for “China” in daily life. Using 中华人民共和国 in a casual chat would sound as strange as a friend saying, “I'm going on vacation to the United States of America.” The name carries the full weight of national identity, law, and political authority.
The use of this term is strictly determined by formality and context.