Learn a little Chinese every day
Grammar Point:As you may already know, comparisons in Chinese are typically expressed using 比 bǐ. However, in this article, we’ll explore how to express preferences in Chinese—similar to saying “would rather… than…” in English. Additionally, we’ll introduce three more formal ways to construct comparison sentences in Chinese. Structure – Showing Preference 與与其 + Option A，(S) +…
Grammar Point:To express “even if” in Chinese, we need to use 就算 jiùsuàn or 就是 jiùshì and usually followed by the second clause 也 yě. In this pattern, the first clause is a supposition, which is then struck down as impossible by the statement’s second clause. Structure 就算 + ···，也 + ··· It is an…
Grammar Point:Chinese indicates the existence of something in a particular place by adding the verb 在 zài. In this function, 在 zài can be translated as ‘be in’ or ‘be at’ in English. Structure S + 在 zài + location 我wǒ在zài家jiā我wǒ在zài家jiāI am at home. 老師lǎoshī在zài美國měiguó老师lǎoshī在zài美国měiguóThe teacher is in the U.S. 圖書館túshūguǎn在zài學校xuéxiào的de3 樓lóu图书馆túshūguǎn在zài学校xuéxiào的de3 楼lóuThe library is…
In this article, we are going to talk about some phases to make a good conclusion in Chinese. A clear conclusion can change a reader’s or listener’s mind when they reach the end of your speech. Especially in Chinese, we tend to save the most important information in our last sentence. Now let’s learn some…
The grammar of 東/东 V 西 V has 3 different meanings, depending on whether the order and two verbs you use are the same or not. And notice that all the verbs must be one-syllable verbs. Structure 東/东 + V + 西 + V This structure can be used if want to say you are…
Grammar Point:The word 憑凭 píng in Chinese is a preposition or verb used to indicate “relying on,” “based on,” or “depending on.” It can also express “by means of” or “according to.” It’s versatile and commonly used in formal or semi-formal contexts. Structure 憑凭 píng + N / Noun Phrase + V It indicates using something as…
Grammar Point:In Chinese, the phrase 越 yuè…越 yuè… is commonly used to express that the degree of something increases with another situation. Structure – 越 + Adj. + 越 S + 越 yuè + Adj + 越 yuè + Adj or V It is important to note that 越 yuè…越 yuè… should not be followed…
Grammar Point:There are 3 functions of 把 bǎ in Chinese. Determination, command, and doing a movement on something that makes a change to it. If you’re not familiar with the basic foundation of 把 structure, I suggest reading the following articles first. Structure (S) + 把 + O + Verb + 了 This structure may…
A field guide for learners Chinese Verbs Chinese verbs, like English ones, fall into three broad categories: the verb 是是 shì (“to be”), the verb 有有 yǒu (“to have”), and the broad remaining set of action verbs. Some teachers argue for a fourth category, treating Chinese adjectives as stative verbs. The baseline The Verb Does…
If you are not familiar with how to use passive sentences in Chinese, I suggest you read the following articles first. This will help you understand the usage of advanced passive sentences. Structure S + 被 + O + 所 + V Phrase This is a highly formal expression of the passive voice, typically used…