汉语水平考试（HSK） · HSK · HSK 3 级

Use the examples with their context and limits. Recall a sentence before reading the model. Original teaching additions accompany examples adapted from Chinese Grammar Wiki (AllSet Learning, CC BY-NC-SA); see the course reference provenance.

Adjective + 极了 (extremely)

A trip receives an enthusiastic review

• A friend asks whether you enjoyed the holiday.
• 这次旅行棒极了！ — The speaker gives a very strong positive evaluation.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Adjective + 极了 (extremely). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

this这个zhè geidea主意zhǔ yigood好hǎoextremely极了jí le。

Read examples in context

that那个nà geboy男孩nán háiannoying讨厌tǎo yànextremely极了jí le！

• In the opening example, 这次旅行棒极了！: The speaker gives a very strong positive evaluation.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 极了 follows an appropriate descriptive word and includes 了 as part of this frame.
• It can describe unpleasant feelings too, but not every adjective has a natural 极了 combination.

Use the distinction

• The speaker gives a very strong positive evaluation.
• 极了 follows an appropriate descriptive word and includes 了 as part of this frame. It can describe unpleasant feelings too, but not every adjective has a natural 极了 combination.

Try it with help closed

A friend asks whether you enjoyed the holiday. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 这次旅行棒极了！

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 极了 follows an appropriate descriptive word and includes 了 as part of this frame.
• It can describe unpleasant feelings too, but not every adjective has a natural 极了 combination.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Doubling adjectives (AA / AABB)

A room is ready for a guest

• You describe a room that has been thoroughly tidied.
• 房间干干净净的。 — The repeated adjective gives a vivid description of the clean room.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Doubling adjectives (AA / AABB). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

the baby宝宝bǎo bao的deeyes眼睛yǎn jīngbig and round大大的dà dà de。

Read examples in context

I我wǒwant to想xiǎngcomfortably舒舒服服shū shū fú fú地delie躺tǎngon在zàithe sofa沙发上shā fā shàng。

• In the opening example, 房间干干净净的。: The repeated adjective gives a vivid description of the clean room.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 干净 can become 干干净净, but this is a lexical pattern, not a rule for every two-character adjective.
• 雪白 can use 雪白雪白 rather than AABB. Learn attested forms.

Use the distinction

• The repeated adjective gives a vivid description of the clean room.
• 干净 can become 干干净净, but this is a lexical pattern, not a rule for every two-character adjective. 雪白 can use 雪白雪白 rather than AABB. Learn attested forms.

Try it with help closed

You describe a room that has been thoroughly tidied. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 房间干干净净的。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 干净 can become 干干净净, but this is a lexical pattern, not a rule for every two-character adjective.
• 雪白 can use 雪白雪白 rather than AABB. Learn attested forms.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Adjective + 地 + Verb (making an adverb)

A teacher reads with care

• A teacher examines an essay carefully rather than rushing through it.
• 老师认真地看了我的作文。 — 认真地 describes how the teacher read the essay.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Adjective + 地 + Verb (making an adverb). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

he他tāhappy高兴gāo xìng地desmiled笑xiào了le。

Read examples in context

the teacher老师lǎo shīcareful认真rèn zhēn地deread看kàn了lemy我的wǒ deessay作文zuò wén。

• In the opening example, 老师认真地看了我的作文。: 认真地 describes how the teacher read the essay.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The manner phrase comes before 看.
• Compare 认真的老师, where 的 describes the teacher, and 老师看得很认真, where 得 introduces an assessment of the reading.

Use the distinction

• 认真地 describes how the teacher read the essay.
• The manner phrase comes before 看. Compare 认真的老师, where 的 describes the teacher, and 老师看得很认真, where 得 introduces an assessment of the reading.

Try it with help closed

A teacher examines an essay carefully rather than rushing through it. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 老师认真地看了我的作文。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The manner phrase comes before 看.
• Compare 认真的老师, where 的 describes the teacher, and 老师看得很认真, where 得 introduces an assessment of the reading.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

这么 / 那么 + Adjective (so …)

A coat's price surprises a buyer

• You look at a coat's price and find it much higher than expected.
• 这件衣服怎么这么贵？ — The buyer reacts to the surprisingly high price.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 这么 / 那么 + Adjective (so …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

today今天jīn tiānhow come怎么zěn meso这么zhè mecold冷lěng？

Read examples in context

you你nǐso那么nà meclever聪明cōng mingsurely，一定yí dìngcan能néngguess it猜到cāi dào。

• In the opening example, 这件衣服怎么这么贵？: The buyer reacts to the surprisingly high price.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 这么 often points to a degree currently in focus.
• 那么 can refer to a degree already mentioned; the distinction is not a literal distance measurement for every use.

Use the distinction

• The buyer reacts to the surprisingly high price.
• 这么 often points to a degree currently in focus. 那么 can refer to a degree already mentioned; the distinction is not a literal distance measurement for every use.

Try it with help closed

You look at a coat's price and find it much higher than expected. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 这件衣服怎么这么贵？

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 这么 often points to a degree currently in focus.
• 那么 can refer to a degree already mentioned; the distinction is not a literal distance measurement for every use.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

A 跟 / 和 B 一样 (the same as)

Compare the size of two homes

• Two homes have the same size, but their colours and locations differ.
• 你家跟我家一样大。 — The comparison asserts equality of size.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is A 跟 / 和 B 一样 (the same as). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

your home你家nǐ jiāas跟gēnmy home我家wǒ jiāthe same一样yí yàngbig大dà。

Read examples in context

Beijing北京Běi jīng的deweather天气tiān qìand和héShanghai上海Shàng hǎinot不bùthe same一样yí yàng。

• In the opening example, 你家跟我家一样大。: The comparison asserts equality of size.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 一样大 names the compared property.
• It does not claim that the homes are identical in every feature. 跟 and 和 both work in this comparison.

Use the distinction

• The comparison asserts equality of size.
• 一样大 names the compared property. It does not claim that the homes are identical in every feature. 跟 and 和 both work in this comparison.

Try it with help closed

Two homes have the same size, but their colours and locations differ. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 你家跟我家一样大。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 一样大 names the compared property.
• It does not claim that the homes are identical in every feature. 跟 and 和 both work in this comparison.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

又 … 又 … (both … and …)

A product has a benefit and a drawback

• A phone is expensive, but useful and attractive.
• 这部手机又贵又好用。 — The speaker combines two qualities of the same phone.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 又 … 又 … (both … and …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

this这个zhè gehouse房子fáng ziboth又yòubig大dàand又yòubright亮liàng。

Read examples in context

here这里zhè lǐ的decoffee咖啡kā fēiboth又yòuexpensive贵guìand又yòubad-tasting难喝nán hē。

• In the opening example, 这部手机又贵又好用。: The speaker combines two qualities of the same phone.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 又…又… often groups similarly valued qualities, but mixed evaluations such as 又贵又好用 are possible.
• It can also link actions, as in 又唱又跳; use 一边…一边… when ongoing simultaneity is the focus.

Use the distinction

• The speaker combines two qualities of the same phone.
• 又…又… often groups similarly valued qualities, but mixed evaluations such as 又贵又好用 are possible. It can also link actions, as in 又唱又跳; use 一边…一边… when ongoing simultaneity is the focus.

Try it with help closed

A phone is expensive, but useful and attractive. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 这部手机又贵又好用。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 又…又… often groups similarly valued qualities, but mixed evaluations such as 又贵又好用 are possible.
• It can also link actions, as in 又唱又跳; use 一边…一边… when ongoing simultaneity is the focus.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Subject + 比较 + Adjective (fairly, rather)

Choose a relatively easy question

• Compared with the other questions, this one seems fairly easy.
• 这个问题比较简单。 — 比较 gives a relative or qualified evaluation of simplicity.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Subject + 比较 + Adjective (fairly, rather). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

this这个zhè gequestion问题wèn tífairly比较bǐ jiàosimple简单jiǎn dān。

Read examples in context

I我wǒrather比较bǐ jiàoprefer喜欢xǐ huantaking坐zuòthe subway地铁dì tiě。

• In the opening example, 这个问题比较简单。: 比较 gives a relative or qualified evaluation of simplicity.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 比较 can imply a comparison without naming its standard.
• 很 with an adjective can simply make a natural predicate, not always a strong very; do not build a fixed intensity ranking from the English translations.

Use the distinction

• 比较 gives a relative or qualified evaluation of simplicity.
• 比较 can imply a comparison without naming its standard. 很 with an adjective can simply make a natural predicate, not always a strong very; do not build a fixed intensity ranking from the English translations.

Try it with help closed

Compared with the other questions, this one seems fairly easy. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 这个问题比较简单。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 比较 can imply a comparison without naming its standard.
• 很 with an adjective can simply make a natural predicate, not always a strong very; do not build a fixed intensity ranking from the English translations.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

多 + Adjective + 啊! (how …!)

Admire a friend's skill

• A child solves a difficult puzzle quickly and you praise the achievement.
• 你女儿多聪明啊！ — 多聪明啊 expresses admiration rather than asking for a measurement.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 多 + Adjective + 啊! (how …!). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

your你nǐdaughter女儿nǚ érhow多duōclever聪明cōng ming啊a！

Read examples in context

on your own一个人yí ge rénhow多duōnice好hǎo！

• In the opening example, 你女儿多聪明啊！: 多聪明啊 expresses admiration rather than asking for a measurement.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 啊 is common in this exclamation, not compulsory in every exclamatory use of 多.
• 多好！ is possible. Compare 你多大？, which genuinely asks about age.

Use the distinction

• 多聪明啊 expresses admiration rather than asking for a measurement.
• 啊 is common in this exclamation, not compulsory in every exclamatory use of 多. 多好！ is possible. Compare 你多大？, which genuinely asks about age.

Try it with help closed

A child solves a difficult puzzle quickly and you praise the achievement. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 你女儿多聪明啊！

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 啊 is common in this exclamation, not compulsory in every exclamatory use of 多.
• 多好！ is possible. Compare 你多大？, which genuinely asks about age.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Adjective + 的 + Noun (describing a noun)

Ask for the cold drink

• Two drinks are available, one cold and one hot.
• 我要冷的。 — 冷的 selects the cold one from the understood drinks.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Adjective + 的 + Noun (describing a noun). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

beautiful漂亮piào liang的degirl女孩儿nǚ háir

Read examples in context

you你nǐwant要yàocold冷lěng的deor还是hái shìhot热rè的de？

• In the opening example, 我要冷的。: 冷的 selects the cold one from the understood drinks.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The understood noun can be omitted after 的.
• Descriptive modifiers often use 的, but established compounds such as 重要问题 or 新鲜水果 show that syllable count alone does not impose an absolute rule.

Use the distinction

• 冷的 selects the cold one from the understood drinks.
• The understood noun can be omitted after 的. Descriptive modifiers often use 的, but established compounds such as 重要问题 or 新鲜水果 show that syllable count alone does not impose an absolute rule.

Try it with help closed

Two drinks are available, one cold and one hot. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我要冷的。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The understood noun can be omitted after 的.
• Descriptive modifiers often use 的, but established compounds such as 重要问题 or 新鲜水果 show that syllable count alone does not impose an absolute rule.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

越来越 (more and more)

Follow a change through the season

• The weather becomes progressively colder as winter approaches.
• 天气越来越冷了。 — 越来越 describes increasing cold over time.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 越来越 (more and more). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

weather天气tiān qìmore and more越来越yuè lái yuècold冷lěng了le。

Read examples in context

I我wǒmore and more越来越yuè lái yuèlike喜欢xǐ huanChinese中文Zhōng wén了le。

• In the opening example, 天气越来越冷了。: 越来越 describes increasing cold over time.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The same form can describe a decrease in a measured quantity: 价格越来越低 means prices are getting lower.
• It marks change in the following property, not an increase in every numerical value.

Use the distinction

• 越来越 describes increasing cold over time.
• The same form can describe a decrease in a measured quantity: 价格越来越低 means prices are getting lower. It marks change in the following property, not an increase in every numerical value.

Try it with help closed

The weather becomes progressively colder as winter approaches. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 天气越来越冷了。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The same form can describe a decrease in a measured quantity: 价格越来越低 means prices are getting lower.
• It marks change in the following property, not an increase in every numerical value.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Use the examples with their context and limits. Recall a sentence before reading the model. Original teaching additions accompany examples adapted from Chinese Grammar Wiki (AllSet Learning, CC BY-NC-SA); see the course reference provenance.

又 + Verb + 了 (again, in the past)

A familiar problem happens again

• A classmate arrives late today after being late previously.
• 你又迟到了。 — 又 marks today's lateness as a recurrence.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 又 + Verb + 了 (again, in the past). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

you你nǐagain又yòulate迟到chí dào了le。

Read examples in context

again又yòurain下雨xià yǔ了le！

• In the opening example, 你又迟到了。: 又 marks today's lateness as a recurrence.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• This finished-event example uses 了, but 又 is not confined to past events.
• 明天又是星期一了 anticipates a known recurrence; 我又不知道 uses another meaning. Choose from the whole sentence.

Use the distinction

• 又 marks today's lateness as a recurrence.
• This finished-event example uses 了, but 又 is not confined to past events. 明天又是星期一了 anticipates a known recurrence; 我又不知道 uses another meaning. Choose from the whole sentence.

Try it with help closed

A classmate arrives late today after being late previously. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 你又迟到了。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• This finished-event example uses 了, but 又 is not confined to past events.
• 明天又是星期一了 anticipates a known recurrence; 我又不知道 uses another meaning. Choose from the whole sentence.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

一直 (all along, continuously)

Waiting lasts through a time span

• You wait throughout the morning for news.
• 我一直在等你的消息。 — 一直 describes the continuing wait across that span.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 一直 (all along, continuously). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒall along一直yì zhívery很hěnlike喜欢xǐ huanyou你nǐ。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 我一直在等你的消息。: 一直 describes the continuing wait across that span.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 一直 also describes enduring habits or a spatial direction, such as 一直往前走.
• It need not mean continuous physical activity every second: 我一直喜欢音乐 describes a lasting preference.

Use the distinction

• 一直 describes the continuing wait across that span.
• 一直 also describes enduring habits or a spatial direction, such as 一直往前走. It need not mean continuous physical activity every second: 我一直喜欢音乐 describes a lasting preference.

Try it with help closed

You wait throughout the morning for news. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我一直在等你的消息。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 一直 also describes enduring habits or a spatial direction, such as 一直往前走.
• It need not mean continuous physical activity every second: 我一直喜欢音乐 describes a lasting preference.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

总是 (always — a habit)

A classmate is usually late

• A classmate arrives late often enough for you to describe it as a habit.
• 他总是迟到。 — 总是 generalises a recurring pattern of lateness.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 总是 (always — a habit). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

he他tāalways总是zǒng shìlate迟到chí dào。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 他总是迟到。: 总是 generalises a recurring pattern of lateness.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 总是 can sound critical here; it is not automatically neutral.
• Adjectives often take 很, but 他总是忙 is possible. A recurring habit is a speaker's generalisation, not a measured guarantee of no exception.

Use the distinction

• 总是 generalises a recurring pattern of lateness.
• 总是 can sound critical here; it is not automatically neutral. Adjectives often take 很, but 他总是忙 is possible. A recurring habit is a speaker's generalisation, not a measured guarantee of no exception.

Try it with help closed

A classmate arrives late often enough for you to describe it as a habit. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 他总是迟到。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 总是 can sound critical here; it is not automatically neutral.
• Adjectives often take 很, but 他总是忙 is possible. A recurring habit is a speaker's generalisation, not a measured guarantee of no exception.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

终于 (finally, at last)

A long wait finally ends

• After waiting for a friend, you see the friend arrive.
• 你终于到了！ — 终于 presents arrival as the endpoint of a wait.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 终于 (finally, at last). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

you你nǐfinally终于zhōng yúarrived到dào了le！

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 你终于到了！: 终于 presents arrival as the endpoint of a wait.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Finally need not be a happy result: 他终于还是失败了 can mark an eventual failure.
• 了 often occurs with completed events, but 终于明白了 and 终于能够独立工作 show different predicate shapes.

Use the distinction

• 终于 presents arrival as the endpoint of a wait.
• Finally need not be a happy result: 他终于还是失败了 can mark an eventual failure. 了 often occurs with completed events, but 终于明白了 and 终于能够独立工作 show different predicate shapes.

Try it with help closed

After waiting for a friend, you see the friend arrive. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 你终于到了！

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Finally need not be a happy result: 他终于还是失败了 can mark an eventual failure.
• 了 often occurs with completed events, but 终于明白了 and 终于能够独立工作 show different predicate shapes.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

几乎 (nearly, almost)

Check an almost-full group

• Most of a class have phones, but a few do not.
• 几乎每个人都有手机。 — 几乎 makes the claim almost universal rather than fully universal.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 几乎 (nearly, almost). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

almost几乎jī hūeveryone每个人měi ge rénall都dōuhas有yǒua phone手机shǒu jī。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 几乎每个人都有手机。: 几乎 makes the claim almost universal rather than fully universal.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 几乎 can also precede an event without 都 or a negative, as in 我几乎忘了.
• Keep the scope clear: 几乎都知道 is almost all know, while 几乎不知道 is hardly know.

Use the distinction

• 几乎 makes the claim almost universal rather than fully universal.
• 几乎 can also precede an event without 都 or a negative, as in 我几乎忘了. Keep the scope clear: 几乎都知道 is almost all know, while 几乎不知道 is hardly know.

Try it with help closed

Most of a class have phones, but a few do not. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 几乎每个人都有手机。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 几乎 can also precede an event without 都 or a negative, as in 我几乎忘了.
• Keep the scope clear: 几乎都知道 is almost all know, while 几乎不知道 is hardly know.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

只 (only)

State the limit of a family's size

• You have one older brother and no other older brothers.
• 我只有一个哥哥。 — 只 limits the number of older brothers to one.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 只 (only). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒonly只zhǐhave有yǒuone一个yí geolder brother哥哥gē ge。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 我只有一个哥哥。: 只 limits the number of older brothers to one.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• In this frame 只 precedes 有, but its scope is supplied by the predicate and context.
• 只有他知道 means only he knows; do not turn the common position into a claim that 只 always limits the verb's action alone.

Use the distinction

• 只 limits the number of older brothers to one.
• In this frame 只 precedes 有, but its scope is supplied by the predicate and context. 只有他知道 means only he knows; do not turn the common position into a claim that 只 always limits the verb's action alone.

Try it with help closed

You have one older brother and no other older brothers. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我只有一个哥哥。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• In this frame 只 precedes 有, but its scope is supplied by the predicate and context.
• 只有他知道 means only he knows; do not turn the common position into a claim that 只 always limits the verb's action alone.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Duration + 没 + Verb + 了 (how long you haven't …)

Friends meet after a long gap

• Two friends have not met for ten years and are now greeting each other.
• 我们已经十年没见了。 — 十年 measures the period with no meeting.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Duration + 没 + Verb + 了 (how long you haven't …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

we我们wǒ menalready已经yǐ jīngten years十年shí niánhaven't没méimet见jiàn了le。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 我们已经十年没见了。: 十年 measures the period with no meeting.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Compare 我们见面谈了两个小时, where the duration follows the completed talking.
• Final 了 marks the current relevance of the gap; this greeting does not promise that the gap will continue after the reunion.

Use the distinction

• 十年 measures the period with no meeting.
• Compare 我们见面谈了两个小时, where the duration follows the completed talking. Final 了 marks the current relevance of the gap; this greeting does not promise that the gap will continue after the reunion.

Try it with help closed

Two friends have not met for ten years and are now greeting each other. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我们已经十年没见了。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Compare 我们见面谈了两个小时, where the duration follows the completed talking.
• Final 了 marks the current relevance of the gap; this greeting does not promise that the gap will continue after the reunion.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Time + 才 (not until — lateness)

Arrival feels late against a schedule

• You expected to be home by eight, but arrived at eleven.
• 我十一点才到家。 — 才 evaluates the eleven-o'clock arrival as late in this context.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Time + 才 (not until — lateness). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒyesterday昨天zuó tiāneleven o'clock十一点shí yī diǎnnot until才cáigot home到家dào jiā。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 我十一点才到家。: 才 evaluates the eleven-o'clock arrival as late in this context.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The expectation is essential; eleven is not intrinsically late for every schedule.
• Time+才 often omits 了 in basic examples, but do not extend that tendency to a ban on all constructions with 才 and 了.

Use the distinction

• 才 evaluates the eleven-o'clock arrival as late in this context.
• The expectation is essential; eleven is not intrinsically late for every schedule. Time+才 often omits 了 in basic examples, but do not extend that tendency to a ban on all constructions with 才 and 了.

Try it with help closed

You expected to be home by eight, but arrived at eleven. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我十一点才到家。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The expectation is essential; eleven is not intrinsically late for every schedule.
• Time+才 often omits 了 in basic examples, but do not extend that tendency to a ban on all constructions with 才 and 了.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

先 … ，再 … (first …, then …)

A meal has an order of actions

• Before eating, someone tells you to wash your hands.
• 先洗手，再吃饭。 — The instruction puts washing before eating.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 先 … ，再 … (first …, then …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

first先xiānwash hands洗手xǐ shǒuthen，再zàieat吃chī。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 先洗手，再吃饭。: The instruction puts washing before eating.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 再 links the second step; it does not require a second meal.
• The sentence specifies order but not the exact delay between actions. 然后 can link later steps too.

Use the distinction

• The instruction puts washing before eating.
• 再 links the second step; it does not require a second meal. The sentence specifies order but not the exact delay between actions. 然后 can link later steps too.

Try it with help closed

Before eating, someone tells you to wash your hands. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 先洗手，再吃饭。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 再 links the second step; it does not require a second meal.
• The sentence specifies order but not the exact delay between actions. 然后 can link later steps too.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

一边 … 一边 … (doing two things at once)

Two activities overlap

• You listen to music while preparing a meal.
• 我一边做饭，一边听音乐。 — The two activities overlap in time.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 一边 … 一边 … (doing two things at once). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒoften常常cháng chángwhile一边yì biānshowering洗澡xǐ zǎo，一边yì biānsing唱歌chàng gē。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 我一边做饭，一边听音乐。: The two activities overlap in time.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• This does not mean every small movement occurs at exactly the same instant.
• 一边笑一边哭 can describe overlapping reactions without claiming deliberate control over both; do not impose intention as a universal condition.

Use the distinction

• The two activities overlap in time.
• This does not mean every small movement occurs at exactly the same instant. 一边笑一边哭 can describe overlapping reactions without claiming deliberate control over both; do not impose intention as a universal condition.

Try it with help closed

You listen to music while preparing a meal. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我一边做饭，一边听音乐。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• This does not mean every small movement occurs at exactly the same instant.
• 一边笑一边哭 can describe overlapping reactions without claiming deliberate control over both; do not impose intention as a universal condition.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

老是 (always — a complaint)

A complaint names a recurring interruption

• A friend keeps interrupting you during conversations.
• 你怎么老是打断我？ — 老是 presents the repeated interruption with frustration.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 老是 (always — a complaint). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

you你nǐwhy怎么zěn mealways老是lǎo shìlate迟到chí dào？

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 你怎么老是打断我？: 老是 presents the repeated interruption with frustration.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 老是 often occurs in complaints but is not forbidden with positive predicates: 他老是帮我 can express appreciation in context.
• 总是 can also be used critically.

Use the distinction

• 老是 presents the repeated interruption with frustration.
• 老是 often occurs in complaints but is not forbidden with positive predicates: 他老是帮我 can express appreciation in context. 总是 can also be used critically.

Try it with help closed

A friend keeps interrupting you during conversations. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 你怎么老是打断我？

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 老是 often occurs in complaints but is not forbidden with positive predicates: 他老是帮我 can express appreciation in context.
• 总是 can also be used critically.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

才 + Number (only — a small amount)

A fare seems surprisingly small

• You expected a ticket to cost more than twenty yuan.
• 这张票才二十块。 — 才 presents the price as only twenty yuan against that expectation.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 才 + Number (only — a small amount). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

you你nǐonly才cáitwenty二十岁èr shí suì？

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 这张票才二十块。: 才 presents the price as only twenty yuan against that expectation.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The price is a small amount from the speaker's viewpoint.
• 二十块才够 instead means only twenty yuan is sufficient; word position and predicate change the scope.

Use the distinction

• 才 presents the price as only twenty yuan against that expectation.
• The price is a small amount from the speaker's viewpoint. 二十块才够 instead means only twenty yuan is sufficient; word position and predicate change the scope.

Try it with help closed

You expected a ticket to cost more than twenty yuan. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 这张票才二十块。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The price is a small amount from the speaker's viewpoint.
• 二十块才够 instead means only twenty yuan is sufficient; word position and predicate change the scope.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

才 vs 就 (late vs early)

One clock time supports two reactions

• An early worker expects arrival at six; a late worker expects arrival at nine.
• 他八点就到了。她八点才到。 — 就 and 才 present the same arrival time as early or late against different expectations.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 才 vs 就 (late vs early). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

he他tāsix o'clock六点liù diǎnalready就jiùget up起床qǐ chuáng了le。

Read examples in context

he他tānine o'clock九点jiǔ diǎnnot until才cáiget up起床qǐ chuáng。

• In the opening example, 他八点就到了。她八点才到。: 就 and 才 present the same arrival time as early or late against different expectations.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Check the expected time, not only the clock number.
• 了 is common in the completed 就 example; the words themselves do not assign a tense to every sentence.

Use the distinction

• 就 and 才 present the same arrival time as early or late against different expectations.
• Check the expected time, not only the clock number. 了 is common in the completed 就 example; the words themselves do not assign a tense to every sentence.

Try it with help closed

An early worker expects arrival at six; a late worker expects arrival at nine. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 他八点就到了。她八点才到。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Check the expected time, not only the clock number.
• 了 is common in the completed 就 example; the words themselves do not assign a tense to every sentence.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

刚 vs 刚才 (just now: adverb vs time-word)

Place a recent-time expression correctly

• A friend left shortly before you arrived.
• 他刚走。刚才他还在这儿。 — 刚 modifies the leaving; 刚才 names the earlier time when he was here.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 刚 vs 刚才 (just now: adverb vs time-word). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

he他tājust刚gāngleave走zǒu。

Read examples in context

a moment ago刚才gāng cáihe他tābe at在zàihere这儿zhèr。

• In the opening example, 他刚走。刚才他还在这儿。: 刚 modifies the leaving; 刚才 names the earlier time when he was here.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 刚 can describe a short interval relative to a stated event, as in 刚到学校就下雨了.
• 刚才 can occur before or after the subject and in 刚才的电话; it is a time expression, not merely a longer 刚.

Use the distinction

• 刚 modifies the leaving; 刚才 names the earlier time when he was here.
• 刚 can describe a short interval relative to a stated event, as in 刚到学校就下雨了. 刚才 can occur before or after the subject and in 刚才的电话; it is a time expression, not merely a longer 刚.

Try it with help closed

A friend left shortly before you arrived. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 他刚走。刚才他还在这儿。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 刚 can describe a short interval relative to a stated event, as in 刚到学校就下雨了.
• 刚才 can occur before or after the subject and in 刚才的电话; it is a time expression, not merely a longer 刚.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

有点 vs 一点 (a bit too… vs a little …er)

An evaluation becomes a request

• A coat costs more than you want to pay, so you ask for a small reduction.
• 这件衣服有点贵。便宜一点吧。 — 有点贵 evaluates the price; 便宜一点 asks for a lower price.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 有点 vs 一点 (a bit too… vs a little …er). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

this这zhè(measure word)件jiànclothes衣服yī fua bit有点yǒu diǎnexpensive贵guì。

Read examples in context

cheap便宜pián yia little一点yì diǎn吧ba！

• In the opening example, 这件衣服有点贵。便宜一点吧。: 有点贵 evaluates the price; 便宜一点 asks for a lower price.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 有点 precedes the adjective and 一点 follows it here.
• 有点 often expresses an unwanted state but can express mild surprise or feelings such as 有点高兴; negative evaluation is usual, not compulsory.

Use the distinction

• 有点贵 evaluates the price; 便宜一点 asks for a lower price.
• 有点 precedes the adjective and 一点 follows it here. 有点 often expresses an unwanted state but can express mild surprise or feelings such as 有点高兴; negative evaluation is usual, not compulsory.

Try it with help closed

A coat costs more than you want to pay, so you ask for a small reduction. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 这件衣服有点贵。便宜一点吧。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 有点 precedes the adjective and 一点 follows it here.
• 有点 often expresses an unwanted state but can express mild surprise or feelings such as 有点高兴; negative evaluation is usual, not compulsory.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

再 vs 又 (again: future vs past)

Distinguish a new plan from a known recurrence

• A visitor came today and plans another visit tomorrow.
• 今天他又来了，明天再来。 — 又 marks today's recurrence; 再 proposes the next visit.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 再 vs 又 (again: future vs past). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

he他tāagain又yòulate迟到chí dào了le。

Read examples in context

tomorrow明天míng tiānagain再zàicome来lái吧ba！

• In the opening example, 今天他又来了，明天再来。: 又 marks today's recurrence; 再 proposes the next visit.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• This is a useful basic contrast, not a past/future tense system.
• 明天又是星期一 is a known recurrence in the future; 再 also links subsequent steps, as in 先看再说.

Use the distinction

• 又 marks today's recurrence; 再 proposes the next visit.
• This is a useful basic contrast, not a past/future tense system. 明天又是星期一 is a known recurrence in the future; 再 also links subsequent steps, as in 先看再说.

Try it with help closed

A visitor came today and plans another visit tomorrow. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 今天他又来了，明天再来。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• This is a useful basic contrast, not a past/future tense system.
• 明天又是星期一 is a known recurrence in the future; 再 also links subsequent steps, as in 先看再说.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Use the examples with their context and limits. Recall a sentence before reading the model. Original teaching additions accompany examples adapted from Chinese Grammar Wiki (AllSet Learning, CC BY-NC-SA); see the course reference provenance.

看起来 (looks / seems)

An attractive dish has not been tasted

• You judge a dish from its appearance before trying it.
• 这个菜看起来很好吃。 — The speaker offers an impression from appearance.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 看起来 (looks / seems). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

he他tālooks看起来kàn qǐ láivery很hěntired累lèi。

Read examples in context

this这zhè(measure word)个gedish菜càilooks看起来kàn qǐ láivery很hěndelicious好吃hǎo chī。

• In the opening example, 这个菜看起来很好吃。: The speaker offers an impression from appearance.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 看起来 does not prove taste or underlying quality.
• It also does not prove that the person has never tasted the dish; the sentence only chooses appearance as the basis of this comment.

Use the distinction

• The speaker offers an impression from appearance.
• 看起来 does not prove taste or underlying quality. It also does not prove that the person has never tasted the dish; the sentence only chooses appearance as the basis of this comment.

Try it with help closed

You judge a dish from its appearance before trying it. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 这个菜看起来很好吃。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 看起来 does not prove taste or underlying quality.
• It also does not prove that the person has never tasted the dish; the sentence only chooses appearance as the basis of this comment.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

让 / 叫 / 请 / 使 (make / let / ask someone do)

One person asks another to act

• A teacher politely asks a visitor to come inside.
• 老师请他进来。 — The visitor is the person expected to enter.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 让 / 叫 / 请 / 使 (make / let / ask someone do). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

mom妈妈mā malet让ràngme我wǒlearn学xuépiano钢琴gāng qín。

Read examples in context

please请qǐnghim他tācome in进来jìn lái。

• In the opening example, 老师请他进来。: The visitor is the person expected to enter.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The person after 请 is also the understood subject of 进来.
• 让 can allow or cause, while 使 can have a non-human cause, as in 这件事使我高兴; these verbs are not interchangeable in every context.

Use the distinction

• The visitor is the person expected to enter.
• The person after 请 is also the understood subject of 进来. 让 can allow or cause, while 使 can have a non-human cause, as in 这件事使我高兴; these verbs are not interchangeable in every context.

Try it with help closed

A teacher politely asks a visitor to come inside. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 老师请他进来。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The person after 请 is also the understood subject of 进来.
• 让 can allow or cause, while 使 can have a non-human cause, as in 这件事使我高兴; these verbs are not interchangeable in every context.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

经过 (after going through)

A discussion leads to a decision

• A group decides on a plan after discussing alternatives.
• 经过讨论，我们决定采用这个方案。 — 经过 presents the discussion as the process preceding the decision.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 经过 (after going through). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

after经过jīng guòthree三sānyear年nián的deeffort努力nǔ lì，he他tāsucceed成功chéng gōng了le。

Read examples in context

after经过jīng guòdiscussion讨论tǎo lùn，we我们wǒ mendecide决定jué dìng了le。

• In the opening example, 经过讨论，我们决定采用这个方案。: 经过 presents the discussion as the process preceding the decision.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The process can be brief; it need not be years of effort.
• 经过 also means pass through, as in 经过车站. Check whether a process or a physical route is being described.

Use the distinction

• 经过 presents the discussion as the process preceding the decision.
• The process can be brief; it need not be years of effort. 经过 also means pass through, as in 经过车站. Check whether a process or a physical route is being described.

Try it with help closed

A group decides on a plan after discussing alternatives. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 经过讨论，我们决定采用这个方案。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The process can be brief; it need not be years of effort.
• 经过 also means pass through, as in 经过车站. Check whether a process or a physical route is being described.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

应该 / 该 (should, ought to)

Advice differs from a prediction

• A tired friend asks what to do, and you suggest rest.
• 你应该多休息。 — 应该 expresses advice or an obligation in this conversation.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 应该 / 该 (should, ought to). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

you你nǐshould应该yīng gāimore多duōrest休息xiū xi。

Read examples in context

should该gāigo走zǒu了le！

• In the opening example, 你应该多休息。: 应该 expresses advice or an obligation in this conversation.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 应该 can also express expectation: 他应该已经到了 means he should have arrived by now.
• Negate advice with 不应该 or 不该; meaning depends on whether the speaker recommends or predicts.

Use the distinction

• 应该 expresses advice or an obligation in this conversation.
• 应该 can also express expectation: 他应该已经到了 means he should have arrived by now. Negate advice with 不应该 or 不该; meaning depends on whether the speaker recommends or predicts.

Try it with help closed

A tired friend asks what to do, and you suggest rest. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 你应该多休息。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 应该 can also express expectation: 他应该已经到了 means he should have arrived by now.
• Negate advice with 不应该 or 不该; meaning depends on whether the speaker recommends or predicts.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

难 + Verb (unpleasant to …)

Bad taste differs from physical difficulty

• A drink tastes unpleasant although swallowing it is easy.
• 这个药很难喝。 — 难喝 evaluates the unpleasant taste.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 难 + Verb (unpleasant to …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

this这zhè(measure word)个gemedicine药yàovery很hěnbad-tasting难吃nán chī。

Read examples in context

this这zhè(measure word)首shǒusong歌gēvery很hěnnice to hear好听hǎo tīng。

• In the opening example, 这个药很难喝。: 难喝 evaluates the unpleasant taste.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 难喝 is an established word, not a promise that every 难+verb means unpleasant.
• 难学 means difficult to learn; distinguish conventional evaluations such as 难听 from task difficulty.

Use the distinction

• 难喝 evaluates the unpleasant taste.
• 难喝 is an established word, not a promise that every 难+verb means unpleasant. 难学 means difficult to learn; distinguish conventional evaluations such as 难听 from task difficulty.

Try it with help closed

A drink tastes unpleasant although swallowing it is easy. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 这个药很难喝。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 难喝 is an established word, not a promise that every 难+verb means unpleasant.
• 难学 means difficult to learn; distinguish conventional evaluations such as 难听 from task difficulty.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Verb + 了 + Duration (did for a length of time)

A duration differs from a clock time

• You describe the length of yesterday's sleep.
• 我睡了八个小时。 — 八个小时 measures how long the sleeping lasted.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Verb + 了 + Duration (did for a length of time). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒstudy学xué了lethree三sānyear年niánChinese中文Zhōng wén。

Read examples in context

he他tāsleep睡shuì了leeight八bā(measure word)个gehour小时xiǎo shí。

• In the opening example, 我睡了八个小时。: 八个小时 measures how long the sleeping lasted.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 八点 names a clock time instead.
• A completed duration alone does not determine whether a longer habit continues: 我学了三年中文 reports three years without automatically proving that study has ended forever.

Use the distinction

• 八个小时 measures how long the sleeping lasted.
• 八点 names a clock time instead. A completed duration alone does not determine whether a longer habit continues: 我学了三年中文 reports three years without automatically proving that study has ended forever.

Try it with help closed

You describe the length of yesterday's sleep. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我睡了八个小时。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 八点 names a clock time instead.
• A completed duration alone does not determine whether a longer habit continues: 我学了三年中文 reports three years without automatically proving that study has ended forever.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Verb + 了 + Duration + 了 (have been …-ing)

A duration is relevant up to now

• You have studied Chinese for three years and are still studying.
• 我学了三年中文了。 — The final 了 makes the elapsed three-year period relevant now; continued study is natural here.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Verb + 了 + Duration + 了 (have been …-ing). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒstudy学xué了lethree三sānyear年niánChinese中文Zhōng wén了le。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 我学了三年中文了。: The final 了 makes the elapsed three-year period relevant now; continued study is natural here.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The context supplies continuation.
• Compare 我等了一个小时了，现在终于等到了: the wait can end at the reference point. Two 了 do not guarantee that an action continues indefinitely afterward.

Use the distinction

• The final 了 makes the elapsed three-year period relevant now; continued study is natural here.
• The context supplies continuation. Compare 我等了一个小时了，现在终于等到了: the wait can end at the reference point. Two 了 do not guarantee that an action continues indefinitely afterward.

Try it with help closed

You have studied Chinese for three years and are still studying. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我学了三年中文了。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The context supplies continuation.
• Compare 我等了一个小时了，现在终于等到了: the wait can end at the reference point. Two 了 do not guarantee that an action continues indefinitely afterward.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

没办法 + Verb (no way to / can't)

A refusal names a practical constraint

• You would like to help but cannot leave work today.
• 今天我没办法帮你。 — The speaker presents helping today as unavailable under the circumstances.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 没办法 + Verb (no way to / can't). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒno way没办法méi bàn fǎhelp帮bāngyou你nǐ。

Read examples in context

nothing to be done没办法méi bàn fǎ，can only只能zhǐ néngwait等děng。

• In the opening example, 今天我没办法帮你。: The speaker presents helping today as unavailable under the circumstances.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 没办法 does not necessarily describe permanent inability.
• 没办法，我只好等 may accept a current constraint; explain the obstacle where the listener needs it.

Use the distinction

• The speaker presents helping today as unavailable under the circumstances.
• 没办法 does not necessarily describe permanent inability. 没办法，我只好等 may accept a current constraint; explain the obstacle where the listener needs it.

Try it with help closed

You would like to help but cannot leave work today. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 今天我没办法帮你。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 没办法 does not necessarily describe permanent inability.
• 没办法，我只好等 may accept a current constraint; explain the obstacle where the listener needs it.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Verb reduplication (do a bit / give it a try)

A short trial is offered politely

• You ask a friend to look briefly at a draft.
• 你看看这个吧。 — Reduplication presents looking as a brief, lighter action.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Verb reduplication (do a bit / give it a try). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

you你nǐhave a look看看kàn kanthis这zhè(measure word)个ge。

Read examples in context

we我们wǒ menrest休息xiū xirest休息xiū xi吧ba。

• In the opening example, 你看看这个吧。: Reduplication presents looking as a brief, lighter action.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Use 看看 or 看一看 for this single-syllable verb, and 休息休息 for 休息.
• Not every verb naturally reduplicates; completed trials can use 看了看 rather than adding 了 anywhere.

Use the distinction

• Reduplication presents looking as a brief, lighter action.
• Use 看看 or 看一看 for this single-syllable verb, and 休息休息 for 休息. Not every verb naturally reduplicates; completed trials can use 看了看 rather than adding 了 anywhere.

Try it with help closed

You ask a friend to look briefly at a draft. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 你看看这个吧。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Use 看看 or 看一看 for this single-syllable verb, and 休息休息 for 休息.
• Not every verb naturally reduplicates; completed trials can use 看了看 rather than adding 了 anywhere.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

很 + Verb (feeling verbs with 很)

A feeling can take a degree word

• You express how much you like a new subject.
• 我很喜欢中文。 — 很 modifies the degree of liking, not the number of lessons taken.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 很 + Verb (feeling verbs with 很). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒreally很hěnlike喜欢xǐ huanyou你nǐ。

Read examples in context

I我wǒreally很hěnmiss想xiǎnghome家jiā。

• In the opening example, 我很喜欢中文。: 很 modifies the degree of liking, not the number of lessons taken.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Some mental or evaluative verbs take degree words, including 了解 as well as 喜欢.
• A plain physical action such as 吃 does not take 很 in the same degree pattern.

Use the distinction

• 很 modifies the degree of liking, not the number of lessons taken.
• Some mental or evaluative verbs take degree words, including 了解 as well as 喜欢. A plain physical action such as 吃 does not take 很 in the same degree pattern.

Try it with help closed

You express how much you like a new subject. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我很喜欢中文。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Some mental or evaluative verbs take degree words, including 了解 as well as 喜欢.
• A plain physical action such as 吃 does not take 很 in the same degree pattern.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Direction complement 来 / 去 (toward / away)

Choose direction from a viewpoint

• You stand inside a room and invite a visitor at the door to enter.
• 请进来。 — 来 directs the movement toward the viewpoint inside the room.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Direction complement 来 / 去 (toward / away). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

please请qǐngcome in进来jìn lái！

Read examples in context

(把)把bǎbook书shūbring here拿来ná lái。

• In the opening example, 请进来。: 来 directs the movement toward the viewpoint inside the room.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Choose the speaker's or established narrative viewpoint.
• 进去 is natural from outside when describing movement into a different space; it is not intrinsically wrong for entering a room.

Use the distinction

• 来 directs the movement toward the viewpoint inside the room.
• Choose the speaker's or established narrative viewpoint. 进去 is natural from outside when describing movement into a different space; it is not intrinsically wrong for entering a room.

Try it with help closed

You stand inside a room and invite a visitor at the door to enter. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 请进来。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Choose the speaker's or established narrative viewpoint.
• 进去 is natural from outside when describing movement into a different space; it is not intrinsically wrong for entering a room.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Potential complement 得 / 不 (can / can't do it)

Understanding is a possible result

• The recording is clear, but its language is too difficult for you.
• 我听不懂。 — Listening does not achieve understanding.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Potential complement 得 / 不 (can / can't do it). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒlisten听tīng(can)得deunderstand懂dǒng。

Read examples in context

too太tàifar远yuǎn了le，I我wǒcan't see看不见kàn bú jiàn。

• In the opening example, 我听不懂。: Listening does not achieve understanding.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 听不懂 is about the achievable result, not a ban on listening.
• 能 also expresses ability as well as permission, so do not gloss 能 as permission only.

Use the distinction

• Listening does not achieve understanding.
• 听不懂 is about the achievable result, not a ban on listening. 能 also expresses ability as well as permission, so do not gloss 能 as permission only.

Try it with help closed

The recording is clear, but its language is too difficult for you. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我听不懂。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 听不懂 is about the achievable result, not a ban on listening.
• 能 also expresses ability as well as permission, so do not gloss 能 as permission only.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Verb + 下去 (keep …-ing)

An unfinished explanation should continue

• A speaker pauses before finishing a story, and you ask for the rest.
• 请说下去。 — 下去 asks the already started speaking to continue.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Verb + 下去 (keep …-ing). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

please请qǐngspeak说shuōcarry on下去xià qù。

Read examples in context

definitely一定yí dìngmust要yàopersist坚持jiān chíkeep on下去xià qù！

• In the opening example, 请说下去。: 下去 asks the already started speaking to continue.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 说下去 is a continuation use; 走下去 can describe physical movement downwards in another context.
• The complement's meaning depends on the verb and scene.

Use the distinction

• 下去 asks the already started speaking to continue.
• 说下去 is a continuation use; 走下去 can describe physical movement downwards in another context. The complement's meaning depends on the verb and scene.

Try it with help closed

A speaker pauses before finishing a story, and you ask for the rest. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 请说下去。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 说下去 is a continuation use; 走下去 can describe physical movement downwards in another context.
• The complement's meaning depends on the verb and scene.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Result complements 好 / 完 / 错 (how it turned out)

Finishing does not prove correctness

• A student finishes all the homework but writes one answer incorrectly.
• 作业做完了，可是有一道题写错了。 — 完 marks completion, while 错 marks an incorrect result.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Result complements 好 / 完 / 错 (how it turned out). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

homework作业zuò yèdo做zuòfinish完wán了le。

Read examples in context

I我wǒwrite写xiěwrongly错cuò了le。

• In the opening example, 作业做完了，可是有一道题写错了。: 完 marks completion, while 错 marks an incorrect result.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 做完 does not imply 做对.
• 做好 may mean properly completed or ready, depending on the activity. Select the result that answers the intended question.

Use the distinction

• 完 marks completion, while 错 marks an incorrect result.
• 做完 does not imply 做对. 做好 may mean properly completed or ready, depending on the activity. Select the result that answers the intended question.

Try it with help closed

A student finishes all the homework but writes one answer incorrectly. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 作业做完了，可是有一道题写错了。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 做完 does not imply 做对.
• 做好 may mean properly completed or ready, depending on the activity. Select the result that answers the intended question.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Use the examples with their context and limits. Recall a sentence before reading the model. Original teaching additions accompany examples adapted from Chinese Grammar Wiki (AllSet Learning, CC BY-NC-SA); see the course reference provenance.

没(有) comparisons (not as … as)

A shorter person does not reach a height

• One friend is 170 cm tall and another is 180 cm tall.
• 我没有他高。 — The speaker's height falls below the other person's height.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 没(有) comparisons (not as … as). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒnot as没有méi yǒuhim他tātall高gāo。

Read examples in context

today今天jīn tiānnot as没有méi yǒuyesterday昨天zuó tiāncold冷lěng。

• In the opening example, 我没有他高。: The speaker's height falls below the other person's height.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 不比他高 means not taller, which permits equality; 没有他高 expresses a lower level.
• Both are grammatical, with different meanings. Do not call 不比 an invalid negative of 比.

Use the distinction

• The speaker's height falls below the other person's height.
• 不比他高 means not taller, which permits equality; 没有他高 expresses a lower level. Both are grammatical, with different meanings. Do not call 不比 an invalid negative of 比.

Try it with help closed

One friend is 170 cm tall and another is 180 cm tall. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我没有他高。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 不比他高 means not taller, which permits equality; 没有他高 expresses a lower level.
• Both are grammatical, with different meanings. Do not call 不比 an invalid negative of 比.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

跟 … 比(起来) (compared with …)

A comparison needs a named baseline

• You compare this year's summer with last year's.
• 跟去年比，今年更热。 — 去年 is the baseline; 今年 is the period being evaluated.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 跟 … 比(起来) (compared with …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

with跟gēnlast year去年qù niáncompare比bǐ，this year今年jīn niáneven more更gènghot热rè。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 跟去年比，今年更热。: 去年 is the baseline; 今年 is the period being evaluated.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 跟去年比起来 also works.
• A changed baseline can change the claim; hotter than last year does not mean hotter than every year on record.

Use the distinction

• 去年 is the baseline; 今年 is the period being evaluated.
• 跟去年比起来 also works. A changed baseline can change the claim; hotter than last year does not mean hotter than every year on record.

Try it with help closed

You compare this year's summer with last year's. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 跟去年比，今年更热。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 跟去年比起来 also works.
• A changed baseline can change the claim; hotter than last year does not mean hotter than every year on record.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

比 … 更 / 还 (even more than)

A comparison does not set an absolute height

• Two short children differ in height.
• 他比我更高。 — The other child is taller relative to the speaker.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 比 … 更 / 还 (even more than). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

he他tāthan比bǐme我wǒeven more更gèngtall高gāo。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 他比我更高。: The other child is taller relative to the speaker.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 更 can strengthen the comparison without proving that either child is tall against an adult standard.
• An ordinary 比 comparison uses 高, 更高 or 还高 rather than 比我很高.

Use the distinction

• The other child is taller relative to the speaker.
• 更 can strengthen the comparison without proving that either child is tall against an adult standard. An ordinary 比 comparison uses 高, 更高 or 还高 rather than 比我很高.

Try it with help closed

Two short children differ in height. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 他比我更高。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 更 can strengthen the comparison without proving that either child is tall against an adult standard.
• An ordinary 比 comparison uses 高, 更高 or 还高 rather than 比我很高.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

比 … Adj + 多了 (much more than)

A large gap differs from a precise measurement

• An older child is much taller than a younger child.
• 他比我高多了。 — 多了 presents the height difference as large.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 比 … Adj + 多了 (much more than). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

he他tāthan比bǐme我wǒtall高gāomuch more多了duō le。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 他比我高多了。: 多了 presents the height difference as large.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 高多了 does not state a precise number of centimetres.
• 高一点 describes a smaller gap; 高十厘米 supplies a numerical difference.

Use the distinction

• 多了 presents the height difference as large.
• 高多了 does not state a precise number of centimetres. 高一点 describes a smaller gap; 高十厘米 supplies a numerical difference.

Try it with help closed

An older child is much taller than a younger child. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 他比我高多了。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 高多了 does not state a precise number of centimetres.
• 高一点 describes a smaller gap; 高十厘米 supplies a numerical difference.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

N1 + 有 + N2 + Adj (as … as)

Ask whether a level is reached

• You want to know whether a child's height reaches an older sibling's height.
• 你有他高吗？ — The question asks about reaching the comparison level.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is N1 + 有 + N2 + Adj (as … as). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

you你nǐas … as有yǒuhim他tātall高gāo吗ma？

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 你有他高吗？: The question asks about reaching the comparison level.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The question itself does not assert equality.
• An answer such as 没有 confirms a lower height; 有 in this comparison differs from 有一本书, where it expresses possession.

Use the distinction

• The question asks about reaching the comparison level.
• The question itself does not assert equality. An answer such as 没有 confirms a lower height; 有 in this comparison differs from 有一本书, where it expresses possession.

Try it with help closed

You want to know whether a child's height reaches an older sibling's height. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 你有他高吗？

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The question itself does not assert equality.
• An answer such as 没有 confirms a lower height; 有 in this comparison differs from 有一本书, where it expresses possession.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Use the examples with their context and limits. Recall a sentence before reading the model. Original teaching additions accompany examples adapted from Chinese Grammar Wiki (AllSet Learning, CC BY-NC-SA); see the course reference provenance.

Time / Verb + 以前 (before …)

A deadline comes before a named time

• You ask a friend to return before three o'clock.
• 三点以前回来。 — The return should happen before the stated three-o'clock boundary.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Time / Verb + 以前 (before …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

three o'clock三点sān diǎnbefore以前yǐ qiáncome back回来huí lái。

Read examples in context

sleep睡觉shuì jiàobefore以前yǐ qiánbrush teeth刷牙shuā yá。

• In the opening example, 三点以前回来。: The return should happen before the stated three-o'clock boundary.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 以前 follows its reference time or action.
• 睡觉以前刷牙 places brushing before sleeping, not after it; separate a deadline from a duration.

Use the distinction

• The return should happen before the stated three-o'clock boundary.
• 以前 follows its reference time or action. 睡觉以前刷牙 places brushing before sleeping, not after it; separate a deadline from a duration.

Try it with help closed

You ask a friend to return before three o'clock. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 三点以前回来。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 以前 follows its reference time or action.
• 睡觉以前刷牙 places brushing before sleeping, not after it; separate a deadline from a duration.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

以前，… (in the past, …)

An earlier home differs from a current one

• You explain that you used to live in Beijing but now live elsewhere.
• 以前我住在北京。 — 以前 introduces an earlier period of residence.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 以前，… (in the past, …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

in the past以前yǐ qián，I我wǒlive住zhùin在zàiBeijing北京Běi jīng。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 以前我住在北京。: 以前 introduces an earlier period of residence.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The current contrast comes from context.
• The sentence alone need not tell us the exact dates or all later homes. Compare 三点以前, where 以前 follows a specific reference point.

Use the distinction

• 以前 introduces an earlier period of residence.
• The current contrast comes from context. The sentence alone need not tell us the exact dates or all later homes. Compare 三点以前, where 以前 follows a specific reference point.

Try it with help closed

You explain that you used to live in Beijing but now live elsewhere. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 以前我住在北京。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The current contrast comes from context.
• The sentence alone need not tell us the exact dates or all later homes. Compare 三点以前, where 以前 follows a specific reference point.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

刚才 (a moment ago)

A friend asks you to repeat the earlier news

• You did not hear a friend's last sentence clearly.
• 你刚才说什么？ — 刚才 asks about speech in the recent past.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 刚才 (a moment ago). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

a moment ago刚才gāng cáihe他tācome来lái了le。

Read examples in context

you你nǐa moment ago刚才gāng cáisay说shuōwhat什么shén me？

• In the opening example, 你刚才说什么？: 刚才 asks about speech in the recent past.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 刚才 is a time expression: 刚才他在这儿 and 他刚才在这儿 both work.
• It can describe a state or a negated action, as in 刚才没听见; 了 is not compulsory.

Use the distinction

• 刚才 asks about speech in the recent past.
• 刚才 is a time expression: 刚才他在这儿 and 他刚才在这儿 both work. It can describe a state or a negated action, as in 刚才没听见; 了 is not compulsory.

Try it with help closed

You did not hear a friend's last sentence clearly. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 你刚才说什么？

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 刚才 is a time expression: 刚才他在这儿 and 他刚才在这儿 both work.
• It can describe a state or a negated action, as in 刚才没听见; 了 is not compulsory.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Time / Verb + 时 (when …)

Attach an event to a time

• You reached a friend's home when the friend was out.
• 我来时，他不在。 — 时 ties the absence to the time of your arrival.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Time / Verb + 时 (when …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒcome来láiwhen时shí，he他tānot不bùbe in在zài。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 我来时，他不在。: 时 ties the absence to the time of your arrival.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 时 is a shorter, often more formal version of 的时候.
• It can also occur in a future instruction, as in 你来时告诉我; it does not itself supply past tense.

Use the distinction

• 时 ties the absence to the time of your arrival.
• 时 is a shorter, often more formal version of 的时候. It can also occur in a future instruction, as in 你来时告诉我; it does not itself supply past tense.

Try it with help closed

You reached a friend's home when the friend was out. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我来时，他不在。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 时 is a shorter, often more formal version of 的时候.
• It can also occur in a future instruction, as in 你来时告诉我; it does not itself supply past tense.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

以后 (after / in the future)

Class ends before the trip home

• You plan to go home after class.
• 下课以后回家。 — Class ending is the reference point before going home.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 以后 (after / in the future). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

in the future以后yǐ hòu，I我wǒwant想xiǎngbe当dāngteacher老师lǎo shī。

Read examples in context

finish class下课xià kèafter以后yǐ hòugo home回家huí jiā。

• In the opening example, 下课以后回家。: Class ending is the reference point before going home.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 以后 may relate two past events too: 毕业以后，我去了上海.
• Alone, 以后 often means in the future; after a reference event it means after that event.

Use the distinction

• Class ending is the reference point before going home.
• 以后 may relate two past events too: 毕业以后，我去了上海. Alone, 以后 often means in the future; after a reference event it means after that event.

Try it with help closed

You plan to go home after class. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 下课以后回家。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 以后 may relate two past events too: 毕业以后，我去了上海.
• Alone, 以后 often means in the future; after a reference event it means after that event.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

… ，后来 … (afterwards / later — past)

A past story has a later turn

• You tell someone that you visited Beijing and later visited Shanghai.
• 先去了北京，后来去了上海。 — 后来 links the later part of the past story to the earlier visit.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is … ，后来 … (afterwards / later — past). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒfirst先xiāngo去qù了leBeijing北京Běi jīng，later后来hòu láigo去qù了leShanghai上海Shàng hǎi。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 先去了北京，后来去了上海。: 后来 links the later part of the past story to the earlier visit.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• For a future plan prefer 然后 or 以后.
• Later does not require immediate succession; 后来 can cover a gap whose length the sentence leaves unspecified.

Use the distinction

• 后来 links the later part of the past story to the earlier visit.
• For a future plan prefer 然后 or 以后. Later does not require immediate succession; 后来 can cover a gap whose length the sentence leaves unspecified.

Try it with help closed

You tell someone that you visited Beijing and later visited Shanghai. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 先去了北京，后来去了上海。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• For a future plan prefer 然后 or 以后.
• Later does not require immediate succession; 后来 can cover a gap whose length the sentence leaves unspecified.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Approximating with sequential numbers

An estimate differs from a sum

• You did not count the visitors exactly but saw roughly five or six.
• 来了五六个人。 — 五六 estimates about five or six people.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Approximating with sequential numbers. Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

come来lái了lefive or six五六wǔ liù(measure word)个gepeople人rén。

Read examples in context

here这儿zhèrhave有yǒuten-something十几shí jǐ(measure word)本běnbook书shū。

• In the opening example, 来了五六个人。: 五六 estimates about five or six people.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Adjacent-number estimates are not addition: 五六 is not eleven.
• The common estimate 两三个 uses 两. Learn established forms instead of concatenating any pair of numerals.

Use the distinction

• 五六 estimates about five or six people.
• Adjacent-number estimates are not addition: 五六 is not eleven. The common estimate 两三个 uses 两. Learn established forms instead of concatenating any pair of numerals.

Try it with help closed

You did not count the visitors exactly but saw roughly five or six. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 来了五六个人。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Adjacent-number estimates are not addition: 五六 is not eleven.
• The common estimate 两三个 uses 两. Learn established forms instead of concatenating any pair of numerals.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Big numbers: 万 / 亿

Convert a large population by groups of four digits

• A city has ten million residents in this invented example.
• 这个城市有一千万人。 — 一千万 equals 1,000 groups of 10,000, or 10,000,000.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Big numbers: 万 / 亿. Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

this这zhè(measure word)个gecity城市chéng shìhave有yǒuten million一千万yì qiān wànpeople人rén。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 这个城市有一千万人。: 一千万 equals 1,000 groups of 10,000, or 10,000,000.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 万 is 10,000 and 亿 is 100,000,000.
• 一百万 is 1,000,000; read the multiplier and unit together instead of importing English three-digit grouping.

Use the distinction

• 一千万 equals 1,000 groups of 10,000, or 10,000,000.
• 万 is 10,000 and 亿 is 100,000,000. 一百万 is 1,000,000; read the multiplier and unit together instead of importing English three-digit grouping.

Try it with help closed

A city has ten million residents in this invented example. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 这个城市有一千万人。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 万 is 10,000 and 亿 is 100,000,000.
• 一百万 is 1,000,000; read the multiplier and unit together instead of importing English three-digit grouping.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Times to the minute (点 … 分)

A meeting starts halfway through the hour

• A meeting begins at 2:30 rather than lasting for half an hour.
• 会议两点半开始。 — 两点半 names the clock time 2:30.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Times to the minute (点 … 分). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

now现在xiàn zàithree o'clock三点sān diǎnfifteen minutes十五分shí wǔ fēn。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 会议两点半开始。: 两点半 names the clock time 2:30.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 半 after 点 means half past the hour.
• 半个小时 is a duration of thirty minutes; 三点十五分 is 3:15. Do not confuse a clock time with elapsed time.

Use the distinction

• 两点半 names the clock time 2:30.
• 半 after 点 means half past the hour. 半个小时 is a duration of thirty minutes; 三点十五分 is 3:15. Do not confuse a clock time with elapsed time.

Try it with help closed

A meeting begins at 2:30 rather than lasting for half an hour. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 会议两点半开始。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 半 after 点 means half past the hour.
• 半个小时 is a duration of thirty minutes; 三点十五分 is 3:15. Do not confuse a clock time with elapsed time.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Telling the hour (Number + 点)

Read the hour in a natural spoken form

• You tell a friend that class finishes at three o'clock.
• 三点下课。 — 三点 gives the clock hour, not the duration of class.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Telling the hour (Number + 点). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒthree o'clock三点sān diǎnfinish class下课xià kè。

Read examples in context

now现在xiàn zàitwo o'clock两点liǎng diǎn。

• In the opening example, 三点下课。: 三点 gives the clock hour, not the duration of class.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Use 两点 as the usual spoken form for two o'clock and 三点钟 as a full form for three.
• Numbers read as digits in codes are a different task from ordinary clock speech.

Use the distinction

• 三点 gives the clock hour, not the duration of class.
• Use 两点 as the usual spoken form for two o'clock and 三点钟 as a full form for three. Numbers read as digits in codes are a different task from ordinary clock speech.

Try it with help closed

You tell a friend that class finishes at three o'clock. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 三点下课。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Use 两点 as the usual spoken form for two o'clock and 三点钟 as a full form for three.
• Numbers read as digits in codes are a different task from ordinary clock speech.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Verb + 着 (ongoing state)

A door remains in a state

• You describe a door that is standing open, without saying who opened it.
• 门开着。 — 着 presents the continuing open state.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Verb + 着 (ongoing state). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

door门ménopen开kāi(state)着zhe。

Read examples in context

he他tāsit坐zuò(state)着zheread看书kàn shū。

• In the opening example, 门开着。: 着 presents the continuing open state.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Compare 他正在开门, which focuses on the opening action.
• 着 is not restricted to still positions: 他笑着说 describes speaking while smiling. Its neutral-tone reading zhe differs from 睡着的 zháo.

Use the distinction

• 着 presents the continuing open state.
• Compare 他正在开门, which focuses on the opening action. 着 is not restricted to still positions: 他笑着说 describes speaking while smiling. Its neutral-tone reading zhe differs from 睡着的 zháo.

Try it with help closed

You describe a door that is standing open, without saying who opened it. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 门开着。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Compare 他正在开门, which focuses on the opening action.
• 着 is not restricted to still positions: 他笑着说 describes speaking while smiling. Its neutral-tone reading zhe differs from 睡着的 zháo.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Sentence-final 了 (change of state)

Hunger becomes a new situation

• You were not hungry before, but now want food.
• 我饿了。 — Final 了 marks hunger as a new relevant state.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Sentence-final 了 (change of state). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

rain下雨xià yǔ了le。

Read examples in context

I我wǒhungry饿è了le。

• In the opening example, 我饿了。: Final 了 marks hunger as a new relevant state.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• This 了 does not mean finished being hungry.
• Verb-了 marks perfective aspect in other uses; do not translate every 了 as a past-tense or completed-action ending.

Use the distinction

• Final 了 marks hunger as a new relevant state.
• This 了 does not mean finished being hungry. Verb-了 marks perfective aspect in other uses; do not translate every 了 as a past-tense or completed-action ending.

Try it with help closed

You were not hungry before, but now want food. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我饿了。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• This 了 does not mean finished being hungry.
• Verb-了 marks perfective aspect in other uses; do not translate every 了 as a past-tense or completed-action ending.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Questions with 呢 (and you? / where?)

A short follow-up relies on context

• A friend says where they live and then asks about you.
• 我住在上海，你呢？ — 你呢 asks where you live, borrowing the topic from the preceding clause.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Questions with 呢 (and you? / where?). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒfine很好hěn hǎo，you你nǐ呢ne？

Read examples in context

my我wǒ的dekeys钥匙yào shi呢ne？

• In the opening example, 我住在上海，你呢？: 你呢 asks where you live, borrowing the topic from the preceding clause.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The same 你呢 can ask about your health after 我很好.
• 我的钥匙呢 can ask where the keys are. The noun and 呢 do not determine the full question without context.

Use the distinction

• 你呢 asks where you live, borrowing the topic from the preceding clause.
• The same 你呢 can ask about your health after 我很好. 我的钥匙呢 can ask where the keys are. The noun and 呢 do not determine the full question without context.

Try it with help closed

A friend says where they live and then asks about you. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我住在上海，你呢？

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The same 你呢 can ask about your health after 我很好.
• 我的钥匙呢 can ask where the keys are. The noun and 呢 do not determine the full question without context.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

的 / 得 / 地 (the three “de”)

One pronunciation fills three different roles

• You describe a careful student's careful reading.
• 认真的学生认真地读书，读得很清楚。 — 的 modifies 学生; 地 marks the manner of 读; 得 introduces the quality of reading.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 的 / 得 / 地 (the three “de”). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

my我wǒ('s)的debook书shū。

Read examples in context

he他tārun跑pǎo(degree)得devery很hěnfast快kuài。

• In the opening example, 认真的学生认真地读书，读得很清楚。: 的 modifies 学生; 地 marks the manner of 读; 得 introduces the quality of reading.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Find the grammatical role rather than relying only on the next character.
• 我说的是实话 contains 的 before 是, because 的 closes a noun-like phrase; the simple before-noun rule is a beginner guide.

Use the distinction

• 的 modifies 学生; 地 marks the manner of 读; 得 introduces the quality of reading.
• Find the grammatical role rather than relying only on the next character. 我说的是实话 contains 的 before 是, because 的 closes a noun-like phrase; the simple before-noun rule is a beginner guide.

Try it with help closed

You describe a careful student's careful reading. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 认真的学生认真地读书，读得很清楚。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Find the grammatical role rather than relying only on the next character.
• 我说的是实话 contains 的 before 是, because 的 closes a noun-like phrase; the simple before-noun rule is a beginner guide.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

有的 (some / some…, others…)

A group contains different preferences

• Several classmates prefer tea while other classmates prefer coffee.
• 有的同学喜欢茶，有的喜欢咖啡。 — 有的 divides the understood group into subsets.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 有的 (some / some…, others…). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

some有的yǒu depeople人rénlike喜欢xǐ huantea茶chá。

Read examples in context

some有的yǒu deexpensive贵guì，some有的yǒu decheap便宜pián yi。

• In the opening example, 有的同学喜欢茶，有的喜欢咖啡。: 有的 divides the understood group into subsets.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• It does not give their sizes, and more than two groups are possible: 有的看书，有的聊天，有的听音乐.
• Do not infer that each group is half the class.

Use the distinction

• 有的 divides the understood group into subsets.
• It does not give their sizes, and more than two groups are possible: 有的看书，有的聊天，有的听音乐. Do not infer that each group is half the class.

Try it with help closed

Several classmates prefer tea while other classmates prefer coffee. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 有的同学喜欢茶，有的喜欢咖啡。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• It does not give their sizes, and more than two groups are possible: 有的看书，有的聊天，有的听音乐.
• Do not infer that each group is half the class.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

半 (half / and a half)

A duration adds half an hour

• You studied for ninety minutes.
• 我学习了一个半小时。 — 一个半小时 measures one and a half hours.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 半 (half / and a half). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

half半bàn(measure word)个geapple苹果píng guǒ。

Read examples in context

one一yī(measure word)个geand a half半bànhour小时xiǎo shí。

• In the opening example, 我学习了一个半小时。: 一个半小时 measures one and a half hours.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 半个小时 is half an hour.
• Compare 两点半, a clock time, with 两个半小时, a duration. Keep the measure word position: 一个半小时, not 一半个小时.

Use the distinction

• 一个半小时 measures one and a half hours.
• 半个小时 is half an hour. Compare 两点半, a clock time, with 两个半小时, a duration. Keep the measure word position: 一个半小时, not 一半个小时.

Try it with help closed

You studied for ninety minutes. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我学习了一个半小时。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 半个小时 is half an hour.
• Compare 两点半, a clock time, with 两个半小时, a duration. Keep the measure word position: 一个半小时, not 一半个小时.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

以后 vs 然后 vs 后来 (then / after)

A plan's next step differs from a later story

• You first eat and then plan to study; later you describe what actually happened.
• 先吃饭，然后学习。后来我们又复习了一遍。 — 然后 gives the next step, while 后来 introduces the later part of the account.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 以后 vs 然后 vs 后来 (then / after). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

first先xiāneat吃饭chī fàn，then然后rán hòusleep睡觉shuì jiào。

Read examples in context

later后来hòu láiwe我们wǒ mennot没méigo去qù。

• In the opening example, 先吃饭，然后学习。后来我们又复习了一遍。: 然后 gives the next step, while 后来 introduces the later part of the account.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 以后 can follow a reference event: 吃饭以后学习.
• A future plan does not normally use 后来 to mean next; choose from temporal relationship, not the shared English word then.

Use the distinction

• 然后 gives the next step, while 后来 introduces the later part of the account.
• 以后 can follow a reference event: 吃饭以后学习. A future plan does not normally use 后来 to mean next; choose from temporal relationship, not the shared English word then.

Try it with help closed

You first eat and then plan to study; later you describe what actually happened. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 先吃饭，然后学习。后来我们又复习了一遍。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 以后 can follow a reference event: 吃饭以后学习.
• A future plan does not normally use 后来 to mean next; choose from temporal relationship, not the shared English word then.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Use the examples with their context and limits. Recall a sentence before reading the model. Original teaching additions accompany examples adapted from Chinese Grammar Wiki (AllSet Learning, CC BY-NC-SA); see the course reference provenance.

一 … 也 / 都 … 不 / 没 (not even one)

A complete zero differs from a small number

• You opened the room and found no one inside.
• 一个人也没有。 — The 一…也没有 frame emphasises zero people.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 一 … 也 / 都 … 不 / 没 (not even one). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

one一yī(measure word)个geperson人réneven也yěthere isn't没有méi yǒu。

Read examples in context

I我wǒa bit一点yì diǎneven也yěnot不bùtired累lèi。

• In the opening example, 一个人也没有。: The 一…也没有 frame emphasises zero people.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Compare 只有一个人, which is one person rather than zero.
• In 一点也不累, the frame negates any degree of tiredness; keep the negative word in the construction.

Use the distinction

• The 一…也没有 frame emphasises zero people.
• Compare 只有一个人, which is one person rather than zero. In 一点也不累, the frame negates any degree of tiredness; keep the negative word in the construction.

Try it with help closed

You opened the room and found no one inside. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 一个人也没有。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Compare 只有一个人, which is one person rather than zero.
• In 一点也不累, the frame negates any degree of tiredness; keep the negative word in the construction.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

越 … 越 … (the more …, the more …)

One changing quantity is linked to another

• A larger group needs more chairs.
• 人越多，需要的椅子越多。 — The number of chairs needed rises with the number of people.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 越 … 越 … (the more …, the more …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒthe more越yuèthink想xiǎngthe more越yuèangry生气shēng qì。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 人越多，需要的椅子越多。: The number of chairs needed rises with the number of people.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 越…越… expresses a linked change, not necessarily a scientific causal proof.
• 越便宜越好 links lower price with greater preference, so both numerical quantities need not rise.

Use the distinction

• The number of chairs needed rises with the number of people.
• 越…越… expresses a linked change, not necessarily a scientific causal proof. 越便宜越好 links lower price with greater preference, so both numerical quantities need not rise.

Try it with help closed

A larger group needs more chairs. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 人越多，需要的椅子越多。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 越…越… expresses a linked change, not necessarily a scientific causal proof.
• 越便宜越好 links lower price with greater preference, so both numerical quantities need not rise.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

把 sentences (do something to the object)

A book is moved to a known place

• You put a particular book on the table.
• 我把书放在桌子上。 — 把 introduces the affected book before the action and its location.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 把 sentences (do something to the object). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒ(把)把bǎbook书shūput放fàngon在zàitable桌子zhuō zion top上shàng。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 我把书放在桌子上。: 把 introduces the affected book before the action and its location.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• An ordinary 把 construction needs an appropriately elaborated verb phrase, not merely 把书放.
• Put negation or an auxiliary before 把: 我没把书拿走. The book should be identifiable in context.

Use the distinction

• 把 introduces the affected book before the action and its location.
• An ordinary 把 construction needs an appropriately elaborated verb phrase, not merely 把书放. Put negation or an auxiliary before 把: 我没把书拿走. The book should be identifiable in context.

Try it with help closed

You put a particular book on the table. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我把书放在桌子上。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• An ordinary 把 construction needs an appropriately elaborated verb phrase, not merely 把书放.
• Put negation or an auxiliary before 把: 我没把书拿走. The book should be identifiable in context.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

被 sentences (the passive)

A passive names the affected item

• Someone took the book away, and you describe what happened to the book.
• 书被他拿走了。 — The book receives the action, while 他 names the doer.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 被 sentences (the passive). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

book书shūby被bèihim他tātake away拿走ná zǒu了le。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 书被他拿走了。: The book receives the action, while 他 names the doer.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 书被拿走了 omits the doer when unnecessary or unknown.
• 被 is not limited to bad outcomes: 他被选为队长 is a positive example. Use a complete verb phrase for the intended event.

Use the distinction

• The book receives the action, while 他 names the doer.
• 书被拿走了 omits the doer when unnecessary or unknown. 被 is not limited to bad outcomes: 他被选为队长 is a positive example. Use a complete verb phrase for the intended event.

Try it with help closed

Someone took the book away, and you describe what happened to the book. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 书被他拿走了。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 书被拿走了 omits the doer when unnecessary or unknown.
• 被 is not limited to bad outcomes: 他被选为队长 is a positive example. Use a complete verb phrase for the intended event.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Place + Verb + 着 + Noun (existential)

Describe a room from its location

• A painting hangs on the wall, and you tell someone what is there.
• 墙上挂着一幅画。 — The place comes first and introduces the painting found there.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Place + Verb + 着 + Noun (existential). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

wall墙qiángon上shànghang挂guà(state)着zhea一yì(measure word)幅fúpainting画huà。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 墙上挂着一幅画。: The place comes first and introduces the painting found there.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• This is an existential description.
• 一幅画挂在墙上 is also grammatical and starts with the known painting instead. Do not reject the second order merely because this lesson teaches place-first presentation.

Use the distinction

• The place comes first and introduces the painting found there.
• This is an existential description. 一幅画挂在墙上 is also grammatical and starts with the known painting instead. Do not reject the second order merely because this lesson teaches place-first presentation.

Try it with help closed

A painting hangs on the wall, and you tell someone what is there. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 墙上挂着一幅画。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• This is an existential description.
• 一幅画挂在墙上 is also grammatical and starts with the known painting instead. Do not reject the second order merely because this lesson teaches place-first presentation.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

想 + QW + 就 + QW (whatever you like)

A choice can be carried into an action

• A friend lets you pick any available dish.
• 你想吃什么就吃什么。 — The repeated 什么 makes the action follow your choice of food.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 想 + QW + 就 + QW (whatever you like). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

you你nǐwant想xiǎngeat吃chīwhat什么shén methen就jiùeat吃chīwhat什么shén me。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 你想吃什么就吃什么。: The repeated 什么 makes the action follow your choice of food.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Match the repeated question word: 想去哪儿就去哪儿.
• Freedom remains subject to the real situation; the grammar does not create food that is unavailable or remove rules mentioned elsewhere.

Use the distinction

• The repeated 什么 makes the action follow your choice of food.
• Match the repeated question word: 想去哪儿就去哪儿. Freedom remains subject to the real situation; the grammar does not create food that is unavailable or remove rules mentioned elsewhere.

Try it with help closed

A friend lets you pick any available dish. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 你想吃什么就吃什么。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Match the repeated question word: 想去哪儿就去哪儿.
• Freedom remains subject to the real situation; the grammar does not create food that is unavailable or remove rules mentioned elsewhere.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Question Word + 都 (every / all)

Negation changes a whole-set claim

• Everyone in the relevant group knows the answer.
• 谁都知道。 — 谁都 covers every person in the understood group.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Question Word + 都 (every / all). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

who谁shéiall都dōuknow知道zhī dào。

Read examples in context

I我wǒanything什么shén meall都dōunot不bùwant想xiǎngeat吃chī。

• In the opening example, 谁都知道。: 谁都 covers every person in the understood group.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 谁都不知道 negates knowing for everyone and means nobody knows.
• 不是什么都知道 means not knowing everything; the negative's position changes the scope.

Use the distinction

• 谁都 covers every person in the understood group.
• 谁都不知道 negates knowing for everyone and means nobody knows. 不是什么都知道 means not knowing everything; the negative's position changes the scope.

Try it with help closed

Everyone in the relevant group knows the answer. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 谁都知道。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 谁都不知道 negates knowing for everyone and means nobody knows.
• 不是什么都知道 means not knowing everything; the negative's position changes the scope.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Question words as “some- / any-”

An indefinite choice is deliberately unnamed

• You feel hungry but have not chosen a specific food.
• 我想吃点什么。 — 什么 leaves the food unspecified: something to eat.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is Question words as “some- / any-”. Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒwant想xiǎngeat吃chīa bit点diǎnsomething什么shén me。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 我想吃点什么。: 什么 leaves the food unspecified: something to eat.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Context and sentence form decide whether a question word asks a question or is indefinite.
• 我不知道他要吃什么 is an embedded question, not automatically a statement that he wants any food.

Use the distinction

• 什么 leaves the food unspecified: something to eat.
• Context and sentence form decide whether a question word asks a question or is indefinite. 我不知道他要吃什么 is an embedded question, not automatically a statement that he wants any food.

Try it with help closed

You feel hungry but have not chosen a specific food. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我想吃点什么。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Context and sentence form decide whether a question word asks a question or is indefinite.
• 我不知道他要吃什么 is an embedded question, not automatically a statement that he wants any food.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

为了 (in order to / for the sake of)

A purpose need not have been achieved

• A person runs regularly to improve health.
• 为了健康，他每天跑步。 — 为了 names health as the purpose of running.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 为了 (in order to / for the sake of). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

in order to为了wèi lehealth健康jiàn kāng，he他tāevery day每天měi tiānrun跑步pǎo bù。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 为了健康，他每天跑步。: 为了 names health as the purpose of running.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 他每天为了健康而跑步 also places the purpose after the subject.
• A purpose is a goal, not evidence that it has been achieved; 因为 explains a cause instead.

Use the distinction

• 为了 names health as the purpose of running.
• 他每天为了健康而跑步 also places the purpose after the subject. A purpose is a goal, not evidence that it has been achieved; 因为 explains a cause instead.

Try it with help closed

A person runs regularly to improve health. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 为了健康，他每天跑步。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 他每天为了健康而跑步 also places the purpose after the subject.
• A purpose is a goal, not evidence that it has been achieved; 因为 explains a cause instead.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

Use the examples with their context and limits. Recall a sentence before reading the model. Original teaching additions accompany examples adapted from Chinese Grammar Wiki (AllSet Learning, CC BY-NC-SA); see the course reference provenance.

A 或者 B (or — in statements)

A statement offers two acceptable drinks

• You say either tea or coffee is acceptable.
• 茶或者咖啡都行。 — 或者 presents alternatives in a statement.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is A 或者 B (or — in statements). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒdrink喝hētea茶cháor或者huò zhěcoffee咖啡kā fēi。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 茶或者咖啡都行。: 或者 presents alternatives in a statement.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• For a direct alternative question use 还是: 你喝茶还是咖啡？.
• A yes-or-no question can contain 或者, as in 茶或者咖啡都可以吗？; questions are not all the same type.

Use the distinction

• 或者 presents alternatives in a statement.
• For a direct alternative question use 还是: 你喝茶还是咖啡？. A yes-or-no question can contain 或者, as in 茶或者咖啡都可以吗？; questions are not all the same type.

Try it with help closed

You say either tea or coffee is acceptable. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 茶或者咖啡都行。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• For a direct alternative question use 还是: 你喝茶还是咖啡？.
• A yes-or-no question can contain 或者, as in 茶或者咖啡都可以吗？; questions are not all the same type.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

那么 … (then / in that case)

A reply follows a new piece of information

• A friend says everything is ready, so you suggest leaving.
• 那么我们走吧。 — 那么 introduces a response based on what was just said.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 那么 … (then / in that case). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

then那么nà mewe我们wǒ mengo走zǒu吧ba。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 那么我们走吧。: 那么 introduces a response based on what was just said.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• This use means in that case, not degree as in 那么高.
• It does not itself indicate an exact future time; 那我们走吧 is a common shorter reply.

Use the distinction

• 那么 introduces a response based on what was just said.
• This use means in that case, not degree as in 那么高. It does not itself indicate an exact future time; 那我们走吧 is a common shorter reply.

Try it with help closed

A friend says everything is ready, so you suggest leaving. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 那么我们走吧。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• This use means in that case, not degree as in 那么高.
• It does not itself indicate an exact future time; 那我们走吧 is a common shorter reply.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

跟 + Person + Verb (with someone)

A conversation has a partner

• You talk with a friend rather than talk only about the friend.
• 我跟朋友聊天。 — 跟朋友 identifies the conversation partner.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 跟 + Person + Verb (with someone). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

I我wǒwith跟gēnfriends朋友péng youchat聊天liáo tiān。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 我跟朋友聊天。: 跟朋友 identifies the conversation partner.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 关于朋友的话题 means a topic about friends.
• 跟 in this use can often be replaced by 和; another 跟 in 跟着他走 means follow him, a different construction.

Use the distinction

• 跟朋友 identifies the conversation partner.
• 关于朋友的话题 means a topic about friends. 跟 in this use can often be replaced by 和; another 跟 in 跟着他走 means follow him, a different construction.

Try it with help closed

You talk with a friend rather than talk only about the friend. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我跟朋友聊天。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 关于朋友的话题 means a topic about friends.
• 跟 in this use can often be replaced by 和; another 跟 in 跟着他走 means follow him, a different construction.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

A 还是 B? (or — in questions)

A direct choice question asks for an option

• You ask a guest which of two drinks they prefer.
• 你喝茶还是咖啡？ — 还是 connects the alternatives the guest should choose between.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is A 还是 B? (or — in questions). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

you你nǐdrink喝hētea茶cháor还是hái shìcoffee咖啡kā fēi？

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 你喝茶还是咖啡？: 还是 connects the alternatives the guest should choose between.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• This is an alternative question, so no final 吗 is needed in the basic frame.
• 还是 also means still or had better in other uses; punctuation alone cannot determine every meaning.

Use the distinction

• 还是 connects the alternatives the guest should choose between.
• This is an alternative question, so no final 吗 is needed in the basic frame. 还是 also means still or had better in other uses; punctuation alone cannot determine every meaning.

Try it with help closed

You ask a guest which of two drinks they prefer. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 你喝茶还是咖啡？

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• This is an alternative question, so no final 吗 is needed in the basic frame.
• 还是 also means still or had better in other uses; punctuation alone cannot determine every meaning.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

关于 + Topic (about / regarding)

A topic phrase can describe a book

• You identify a book whose subject is Chinese history.
• 这是一本关于中国历史的书。 — 关于中国历史 describes what the book is about.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 关于 + Topic (about / regarding). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

about关于guān yúthis这zhè(measure word)件jiànmatter事shì，I我wǒnot不bùknow知道zhī dào。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 这是一本关于中国历史的书。: 关于中国历史 describes what the book is about.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 关于 can introduce a sentence topic or appear inside a noun modifier with 的.
• It is not restricted to sentence-initial position. Identify the noun or clause whose topic it supplies.

Use the distinction

• 关于中国历史 describes what the book is about.
• 关于 can introduce a sentence topic or appear inside a noun modifier with 的. It is not restricted to sentence-initial position. Identify the noun or clause whose topic it supplies.

Try it with help closed

You identify a book whose subject is Chinese history. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 这是一本关于中国历史的书。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 关于 can introduce a sentence topic or appear inside a noun modifier with 的.
• It is not restricted to sentence-initial position. Identify the noun or clause whose topic it supplies.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

直到 … ，… 才 … (all the way until)

A late understanding begins at a boundary

• An explanation becomes clear to you only now.
• 直到现在，我才明白。 — 直到 gives the boundary and 才 emphasises that understanding did not occur earlier.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 直到 … ，… 才 … (all the way until). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

until直到zhí dàonow现在xiàn zài，I我wǒonly then才cáiunderstand明白míng bai。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 直到现在，我才明白。: 直到 gives the boundary and 才 emphasises that understanding did not occur earlier.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 直到 can also mark a continuing action's endpoint without 才: 我们一直等到十点.
• Avoid adding 才 mechanically when there is no delayed onset to emphasise.

Use the distinction

• 直到 gives the boundary and 才 emphasises that understanding did not occur earlier.
• 直到 can also mark a continuing action's endpoint without 才: 我们一直等到十点. Avoid adding 才 mechanically when there is no delayed onset to emphasise.

Try it with help closed

An explanation becomes clear to you only now. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 直到现在，我才明白。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 直到 can also mark a continuing action's endpoint without 才: 我们一直等到十点.
• Avoid adding 才 mechanically when there is no delayed onset to emphasise.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

向 + Direction / Person + Verb (towards)

An apology has a recipient

• You apologise to a friend rather than travel toward the friend.
• 我向他道歉。 — 向他 identifies the person to whom the apology is directed.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 向 + Direction / Person + Verb (towards). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

towards向xiàngleft左zuǒturn转zhuǎn。

Read examples in context

we我们wǒ mentowards向xiànghim他tālearn学习xué xí。

• In the opening example, 我向他道歉。: 向他 identifies the person to whom the apology is directed.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 向 works with physical directions and abstract targets.
• 向他学习 names a model to learn from; it does not mean physically walking toward him.

Use the distinction

• 向他 identifies the person to whom the apology is directed.
• 向 works with physical directions and abstract targets. 向他学习 names a model to learn from; it does not mean physically walking toward him.

Try it with help closed

You apologise to a friend rather than travel toward the friend. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我向他道歉。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 向 works with physical directions and abstract targets.
• 向他学习 names a model to learn from; it does not mean physically walking toward him.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

只要 … ，就 … (as long as)

A sufficient condition permits entry

• A venue says a valid ticket is enough to enter.
• 只要有票，就能进去。 — The rule presents having a ticket as sufficient for entry.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 只要 … ，就 … (as long as). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

as long as只要zhǐ yàowork hard努力nǔ lì，then就jiùcan能néngsucceed成功chéng gōng。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 只要有票，就能进去。: The rule presents having a ticket as sufficient for entry.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The statement claims sufficiency within the stated rule; it does not assert that nobody can enter by any other authorised method.
• Contrast 只有有票，才能进去, which makes a ticket necessary.

Use the distinction

• The rule presents having a ticket as sufficient for entry.
• The statement claims sufficiency within the stated rule; it does not assert that nobody can enter by any other authorised method. Contrast 只有有票，才能进去, which makes a ticket necessary.

Try it with help closed

A venue says a valid ticket is enough to enter. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 只要有票，就能进去。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The statement claims sufficiency within the stated rule; it does not assert that nobody can enter by any other authorised method.
• Contrast 只有有票，才能进去, which makes a ticket necessary.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

… ，才 … (only then / only after)

A required action comes before access

• You must finish registration before using an account.
• 完成注册，才能使用账号。 — Registration is presented as a required condition before use.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is … ，才 … (only then / only after). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

you你nǐwork hard努力nǔ lì，only then才cáican能néngsucceed成功chéng gōng。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 完成注册，才能使用账号。: Registration is presented as a required condition before use.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The requirement does not promise that registration alone solves every obstacle.
• An account could still need approval; distinguish necessary conditions from sufficient ones.

Use the distinction

• Registration is presented as a required condition before use.
• The requirement does not promise that registration alone solves every obstacle. An account could still need approval; distinguish necessary conditions from sufficient ones.

Try it with help closed

You must finish registration before using an account. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 完成注册，才能使用账号。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The requirement does not promise that registration alone solves every obstacle.
• An account could still need approval; distinguish necessary conditions from sufficient ones.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

只有 … ，才 … (only if)

A necessary condition is not a complete recipe

• A venue permits entry only to people with tickets.
• 只有有票，才能进去。 — Having a ticket is presented as necessary for entry.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 只有 … ，才 … (only if). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

only if只有zhǐ yǒuwork hard努力nǔ lì，only then才cáican能néngsucceed成功chéng gōng。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 只有有票，才能进去。: Having a ticket is presented as necessary for entry.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• The rule need not say that a ticket alone is sufficient; identity checks may also be required.
• 只要有票，就能进去 instead presents a ticket as enough under that stated rule.

Use the distinction

• Having a ticket is presented as necessary for entry.
• The rule need not say that a ticket alone is sufficient; identity checks may also be required. 只要有票，就能进去 instead presents a ticket as enough under that stated rule.

Try it with help closed

A venue permits entry only to people with tickets. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 只有有票，才能进去。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• The rule need not say that a ticket alone is sufficient; identity checks may also be required.
• 只要有票，就能进去 instead presents a ticket as enough under that stated rule.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

除了 … 都 / 还 (except / besides)

An exception differs from an addition

• All classmates arrived except one, and a multilingual student speaks English as well as Chinese.
• 除了他，大家都来了。除了中文，她还会英文。 — 都 helps mark the exception; 还 helps mark the additional skill.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 除了 … 都 / 还 (except / besides). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

except除了chú lehim他tā，everyone大家dà jiāall都dōucome来lái了le。

Read examples in context

besides除了chú leChinese中文Zhōng wén，he他tāalso还háican会huìEnglish英文Yīng wén。

• In the opening example, 除了他，大家都来了。除了中文，她还会英文。: 都 helps mark the exception; 还 helps mark the additional skill.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Read the whole predicate and context instead of treating a single partner word as an infallible switch.
• The first sentence excludes him from the arrival claim; the second includes both skills.

Use the distinction

• 都 helps mark the exception; 还 helps mark the additional skill.
• Read the whole predicate and context instead of treating a single partner word as an infallible switch. The first sentence excludes him from the arrival claim; the second includes both skills.

Try it with help closed

All classmates arrived except one, and a multilingual student speaks English as well as Chinese. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 除了他，大家都来了。除了中文，她还会英文。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Read the whole predicate and context instead of treating a single partner word as an infallible switch.
• The first sentence excludes him from the arrival claim; the second includes both skills.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

如果 … 的话 (if …)

An invitation depends on free time

• A friend invites you to come if you are available.
• 如果有时间的话，就来吧。 — 的话 closes the stated condition before the invitation.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 如果 … 的话 (if …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

if如果rú guǒhave有yǒutime时间shí jiān(if)的话de huà，then就jiùcome来lái吧ba。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 如果有时间的话，就来吧。: 的话 closes the stated condition before the invitation.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 如果有时间，就来吧 is also natural.
• 的话 is optional in this frame; it does not guarantee a polite tone regardless of the rest of the sentence.

Use the distinction

• 的话 closes the stated condition before the invitation.
• 如果有时间，就来吧 is also natural. 的话 is optional in this frame; it does not guarantee a polite tone regardless of the rest of the sentence.

Try it with help closed

A friend invites you to come if you are available. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 如果有时间的话，就来吧。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 如果有时间，就来吧 is also natural.
• 的话 is optional in this frame; it does not guarantee a polite tone regardless of the rest of the sentence.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

如果 … ，就 … (if …, then …)

A backup plan depends on rain

• The group plans not to go outside if it rains.
• 如果下雨，我们就不去。 — Rain is the condition; not going is the planned consequence.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 如果 … ，就 … (if …, then …). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

if如果rú guǒrain下雨xià yǔ，then就jiùnot不bùgo去qù。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 如果下雨，我们就不去。: Rain is the condition; not going is the planned consequence.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• 如果下雨，我们不去 is also possible.
• 就 often makes the condition-result link explicit, but is not compulsory in every 如果 sentence. No rain has been asserted yet.

Use the distinction

• Rain is the condition; not going is the planned consequence.
• 如果下雨，我们不去 is also possible. 就 often makes the condition-result link explicit, but is not compulsory in every 如果 sentence. No rain has been asserted yet.

Try it with help closed

The group plans not to go outside if it rains. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 如果下雨，我们就不去。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• 如果下雨，我们不去 is also possible.
• 就 often makes the condition-result link explicit, but is not compulsory in every 如果 sentence. No rain has been asserted yet.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

不但 … ，而且 … (not only … but also)

Two points can concern different people

• You describe a household in which both siblings can speak Chinese.
• 不但哥哥会中文，而且妹妹也会。 — The second clause adds the sister's ability to the brother's.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 不但 … ，而且 … (not only … but also). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

this这zhè(measure word)个gedish菜càinot only不但bú dàncheap便宜pián yi，but also而且ér qiětasty好吃hǎo chī。

Read examples in context

• In the opening example, 不但哥哥会中文，而且妹妹也会。: The second clause adds the sister's ability to the brother's.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Place 不但 before the first subject when the subjects differ.
• With a shared subject, 他不但会中文，而且会英文 is natural. The frame need not always describe only one subject.

Use the distinction

• The second clause adds the sister's ability to the brother's.
• Place 不但 before the first subject when the subjects differ. With a shared subject, 他不但会中文，而且会英文 is natural. The frame need not always describe only one subject.

Try it with help closed

You describe a household in which both siblings can speak Chinese. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 不但哥哥会中文，而且妹妹也会。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Place 不但 before the first subject when the subjects differ.
• With a shared subject, 他不但会中文，而且会英文 is natural. The frame need not always describe only one subject.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.

还是 vs 或者 (or: question vs statement)

An embedded question still asks for a choice

• You do not know which drink a guest prefers.
• 我不知道他喝茶还是咖啡。 — 还是 keeps the alternative choice inside the statement of uncertainty.

Build the form

• The pattern in this lesson is 还是 vs 或者 (or: question vs statement). Locate it in the original interlinear examples below.
• Keep the words in their demonstrated positions; the pattern must fit the intended situation as well as the sentence form.

you你nǐdrink喝hētea茶cháor还是hái shìcoffee咖啡kā fēi？

Read examples in context

tea茶cháor或者huò zhěcoffee咖啡kā fēiboth都dōufine行xíng。

• In the opening example, 我不知道他喝茶还是咖啡。: 还是 keeps the alternative choice inside the statement of uncertainty.
• Explain who acts, what is described and which time or group is relevant before choosing an English paraphrase.

Know the boundary

• Compare 茶或者咖啡都行, a statement offering acceptable options.
• Choose 还是 for an alternative question, including an embedded one, rather than using the whole sentence's final punctuation alone.

Use the distinction

• 还是 keeps the alternative choice inside the statement of uncertainty.
• Compare 茶或者咖啡都行, a statement offering acceptable options. Choose 还是 for an alternative question, including an embedded one, rather than using the whole sentence's final punctuation alone.

Try it with help closed

You do not know which drink a guest prefers. Close the examples. Say a Mandarin response, then write it in Chinese. Explain briefly in English what the lesson’s pattern adds. Compare with the model, then change one detail and try again.

One possible response: 我不知道他喝茶还是咖啡。

• My response conveys a message that fits the opening situation.
• I can explain the meaning of the pattern, rather than only naming it.
• Compare 茶或者咖啡都行, a statement offering acceptable options.
• Choose 还是 for an alternative question, including an embedded one, rather than using the whole sentence's final punctuation alone.
• I tried a second response with a name, time, place, or description changed.

Practise this pattern step by step.