AoA Dynamics Language← All translators
AOA DYNAMICS · MANDARIN GRAMMAR

Make sense of Mandarin.

72 lessons, 720 examples, and 720 questions in 12 modules. Open a lesson to read its rule, practice with ten examples, and answer ten questions. This readable version works even when a preview blocks JavaScript.

MODULE 01

最初的句子 — First sentences

Build clear statements without changing verb endings.

1. 基本语序 — Basic word order
subject + verb + object

A neutral statement usually puts the doer first, then the action, then what receives it.

Notice: Time and place can appear before the verb; later lessons show where.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我喝茶。
Wǒ hē chá.
I drink tea.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
她看书。
Tā kàn shū.
She reads a book.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
他们打篮球。
Tā men dǎ lán qiú.
They play basketball.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
爸爸做饭。
Bà ba zuò fàn.
Dad cooks.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
孩子喝水。
Hái zi hē shuǐ.
The child drinks water.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我买水果。
Wǒ mǎi shuǐ guǒ.
I buy fruit.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
老师教中文。
Lǎo shī jiāo zhōng wén.
The teacher teaches Chinese.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我们听音乐。
Wǒ men tīng yīn yuè.
We listen to music.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
朋友开车。
Péng you kāi chē.
My friend drives.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
你写名字。
Nǐ xiě míng zi.
You write your name.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which order makes a neutral statement?
    1. subject, verb, object
    2. verb, subject, object
    3. object, verb, subject
    Show answer · 查看答案subject, verb, object
    A neutral statement usually puts the doer first, then the action, then what receives it.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “She reads a book.”?
    1. 我们听音乐。
    2. 她看书。
    3. 孩子喝水。
    Show answer · 查看答案她看书。
    她看书。 · Tā kàn shū.
  3. In this lesson, what does “他们打篮球。” mean?
    1. I buy fruit.
    2. My friend drives.
    3. They play basketball.
    Show answer · 查看答案They play basketball.
    Tā men dǎ lán qiú. · They play basketball.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Dad cooks.”?
    1. 爸爸做饭。
    2. 老师教中文。
    3. 你写名字。
    Show answer · 查看答案爸爸做饭。
    爸爸做饭。 · Bà ba zuò fàn.
  5. In this lesson, what does “孩子喝水。” mean?
    1. I drink tea.
    2. The child drinks water.
    3. We listen to music.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child drinks water.
    Hái zi hē shuǐ. · The child drinks water.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “I buy fruit.”?
    1. 朋友开车。
    2. 她看书。
    3. 我买水果。
    Show answer · 查看答案我买水果。
    我买水果。 · Wǒ mǎi shuǐ guǒ.
  7. In this lesson, what does “老师教中文。” mean?
    1. The teacher teaches Chinese.
    2. You write your name.
    3. They play basketball.
    Show answer · 查看答案The teacher teaches Chinese.
    Lǎo shī jiāo zhōng wén. · The teacher teaches Chinese.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “We listen to music.”?
    1. 爸爸做饭。
    2. 我们听音乐。
    3. 我喝茶。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们听音乐。
    我们听音乐。 · Wǒ men tīng yīn yuè.
  9. In this lesson, what does “朋友开车。” mean?
    1. She reads a book.
    2. The child drinks water.
    3. My friend drives.
    Show answer · 查看答案My friend drives.
    Péng you kāi chē. · My friend drives.
  10. Which pinyin reads “你写名字。”?
    1. Nǐ xiě míng zi.
    2. Tā men dǎ lán qiú.
    3. Wǒ mǎi shuǐ guǒ.
    Show answer · 查看答案Nǐ xiě míng zi.
    你写名字。 means “You write your name.”
2. 动词不变形 — No verb conjugation
same verb across people and times

Mandarin verbs do not change form for person or tense. Add a time word or aspect marker when needed.

Notice: 昨天 gives a past time; it does not change 吃.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
昨天我吃米饭。
Zuótiān wǒ chī mǐfàn.
Yesterday I ate rice.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
今天我吃米饭。
Jīn tiān wǒ chī mǐ fàn.
Today I eat rice.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
明天我吃米饭。
Míng tiān wǒ chī mǐ fàn.
Tomorrow I will eat rice.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
她昨天工作。
Tā zuó tiān gōng zuò.
She worked yesterday.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
她明天工作。
Tā míng tiān gōng zuò.
She will work tomorrow.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我们每天走路。
Wǒ men měi tiān zǒu lù.
We walk every day.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
他上周学习中文。
Tā shàng zhōu xué xí zhōng wén.
He studied Chinese last week.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我现在喝水。
Wǒ xiàn zài hē shuǐ.
I am drinking water now.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
你明年住在北京。
Nǐ míng nián zhù zài běi jīng.
You will live in Beijing next year.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
他们以前住在这里。
Tā men yǐ qián zhù zài zhè lǐ.
They used to live here.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What signals past time here?
    1. 昨天
    2. a past-tense ending on 吃
    3. the pronoun 我
    Show answer · 查看答案昨天
    Mandarin verbs do not change form for person or tense. Add a time word or aspect marker when needed.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Today I eat rice.”?
    1. 我现在喝水。
    2. 今天我吃米饭。
    3. 她明天工作。
    Show answer · 查看答案今天我吃米饭。
    今天我吃米饭。 · Jīn tiān wǒ chī mǐ fàn.
  3. In this lesson, what does “明天我吃米饭。” mean?
    1. We walk every day.
    2. You will live in Beijing next year.
    3. Tomorrow I will eat rice.
    Show answer · 查看答案Tomorrow I will eat rice.
    Míng tiān wǒ chī mǐ fàn. · Tomorrow I will eat rice.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “She worked yesterday.”?
    1. 她昨天工作。
    2. 他上周学习中文。
    3. 他们以前住在这里。
    Show answer · 查看答案她昨天工作。
    她昨天工作。 · Tā zuó tiān gōng zuò.
  5. In this lesson, what does “她明天工作。” mean?
    1. Yesterday I ate rice.
    2. She will work tomorrow.
    3. I am drinking water now.
    Show answer · 查看答案She will work tomorrow.
    Tā míng tiān gōng zuò. · She will work tomorrow.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “We walk every day.”?
    1. 你明年住在北京。
    2. 今天我吃米饭。
    3. 我们每天走路。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们每天走路。
    我们每天走路。 · Wǒ men měi tiān zǒu lù.
  7. In this lesson, what does “他上周学习中文。” mean?
    1. He studied Chinese last week.
    2. They used to live here.
    3. Tomorrow I will eat rice.
    Show answer · 查看答案He studied Chinese last week.
    Tā shàng zhōu xué xí zhōng wén. · He studied Chinese last week.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “I am drinking water now.”?
    1. 她昨天工作。
    2. 我现在喝水。
    3. 昨天我吃米饭。
    Show answer · 查看答案我现在喝水。
    我现在喝水。 · Wǒ xiàn zài hē shuǐ.
  9. In this lesson, what does “你明年住在北京。” mean?
    1. Today I eat rice.
    2. She will work tomorrow.
    3. You will live in Beijing next year.
    Show answer · 查看答案You will live in Beijing next year.
    Nǐ míng nián zhù zài běi jīng. · You will live in Beijing next year.
  10. Which pinyin reads “他们以前住在这里。”?
    1. Tā men yǐ qián zhù zài zhè lǐ.
    2. Míng tiān wǒ chī mǐ fàn.
    3. Wǒ men měi tiān zǒu lù.
    Show answer · 查看答案Tā men yǐ qián zhù zài zhè lǐ.
    他们以前住在这里。 means “They used to live here.”
3. 用“是”说明身份 — Identity with shì (“to be”)
A 是 B

Use 是 when identifying or classifying a noun: a person is a teacher, a thing is a book.

Notice: An ordinary adjective normally does not need 是.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
她是老师。
Tā shì lǎoshī.
She is a teacher.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
他是医生。
Tā shì yī shēng.
He is a doctor.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
这是我的手机。
Zhè shì wǒ de shǒu jī.
This is my phone.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
北京是中国的首都。
Běi jīng shì zhōng guó de shǒudū.
Beijing is China's capital.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
今天是星期五。
Jīn tiān shì xīng qī wǔ.
Today is Friday.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我们是朋友。
Wǒ men shì péng you.
We are friends.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
那是地铁站。
Nà shì dì tiě zhàn.
That is the subway station.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
这本是词典。
Zhè běn shì cí diǎn.
This one is a dictionary.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
她不是学生。
Tā bú shì xué sheng.
She is not a student.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
你是这里的经理吗？
Nǐ shì zhè lǐ de jīng lǐ ma?
Are you the manager here?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. When is 是 natural?
    1. before a noun identity
    2. before every adjective
    3. before every verb
    Show answer · 查看答案before a noun identity
    Use 是 when identifying or classifying a noun: a person is a teacher, a thing is a book.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “He is a doctor.”?
    1. 这本是词典。
    2. 他是医生。
    3. 今天是星期五。
    Show answer · 查看答案他是医生。
    他是医生。 · Tā shì yī shēng.
  3. In this lesson, what does “这是我的手机。” mean?
    1. We are friends.
    2. She is not a student.
    3. This is my phone.
    Show answer · 查看答案This is my phone.
    Zhè shì wǒ de shǒu jī. · This is my phone.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Beijing is China's capital.”?
    1. 北京是中国的首都。
    2. 那是地铁站。
    3. 你是这里的经理吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案北京是中国的首都。
    北京是中国的首都。 · Běi jīng shì zhōng guó de shǒudū.
  5. In this lesson, what does “今天是星期五。” mean?
    1. She is a teacher.
    2. Today is Friday.
    3. This one is a dictionary.
    Show answer · 查看答案Today is Friday.
    Jīn tiān shì xīng qī wǔ. · Today is Friday.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “We are friends.”?
    1. 她不是学生。
    2. 他是医生。
    3. 我们是朋友。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们是朋友。
    我们是朋友。 · Wǒ men shì péng you.
  7. In this lesson, what does “那是地铁站。” mean?
    1. That is the subway station.
    2. Are you the manager here?
    3. This is my phone.
    Show answer · 查看答案That is the subway station.
    Nà shì dì tiě zhàn. · That is the subway station.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “This one is a dictionary.”?
    1. 北京是中国的首都。
    2. 这本是词典。
    3. 她是老师。
    Show answer · 查看答案这本是词典。
    这本是词典。 · Zhè běn shì cí diǎn.
  9. In this lesson, what does “她不是学生。” mean?
    1. He is a doctor.
    2. Today is Friday.
    3. She is not a student.
    Show answer · 查看答案She is not a student.
    Tā bú shì xué sheng. · She is not a student.
  10. Which pinyin reads “你是这里的经理吗？”?
    1. Nǐ shì zhè lǐ de jīng lǐ ma?
    2. Zhè shì wǒ de shǒu jī.
    3. Wǒ men shì péng you.
    Show answer · 查看答案Nǐ shì zhè lǐ de jīng lǐ ma?
    你是这里的经理吗？ means “Are you the manager here?”
4. 形容词作谓语 — Adjective predicates
subject + 很 + adjective

An adjective can be the predicate on its own. 很 often links it naturally without strongly meaning “very.”

Notice: For a contrast, bare adjectives are possible: 他高，我矮.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
这杯茶很热。
Zhè bēi chá hěn rè.
This tea is hot.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
房间很安静。
Fáng jiān hěn ān jìng.
The room is quiet.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
今天很冷。
Jīn tiān hěn lěng.
It is cold today.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
这个问题很难。
Zhè ge wèn tí hěn nán.
This question is hard.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
他的声音很小。
Tā de shēngyīn hěn xiǎo.
His voice is quiet.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这条路很长。
Zhè tiáo lù hěn cháng.
This road is long.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
这里不贵。
Zhè lǐ bú guì.
It is not expensive here.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我很累。
Wǒ hěn lèi.
I am tired.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
这碗汤太咸了。
Zhè wǎn tāng tài xián le.
This soup is too salty.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
你忙吗？
Nǐ máng ma?
Are you busy?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which is the ordinary neutral statement?
    1. 茶很热。
    2. 茶是热。
    3. 茶有热。
    Show answer · 查看答案茶很热。
    An adjective can be the predicate on its own. 很 often links it naturally without strongly meaning “very.”
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “The room is quiet.”?
    1. 我很累。
    2. 房间很安静。
    3. 他的声音很小。
    Show answer · 查看答案房间很安静。
    房间很安静。 · Fáng jiān hěn ān jìng.
  3. In this lesson, what does “今天很冷。” mean?
    1. This road is long.
    2. This soup is too salty.
    3. It is cold today.
    Show answer · 查看答案It is cold today.
    Jīn tiān hěn lěng. · It is cold today.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “This question is hard.”?
    1. 这个问题很难。
    2. 这里不贵。
    3. 你忙吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案这个问题很难。
    这个问题很难。 · Zhè ge wèn tí hěn nán.
  5. In this lesson, what does “他的声音很小。” mean?
    1. This tea is hot.
    2. His voice is quiet.
    3. I am tired.
    Show answer · 查看答案His voice is quiet.
    Tā de shēngyīn hěn xiǎo. · His voice is quiet.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “This road is long.”?
    1. 这碗汤太咸了。
    2. 房间很安静。
    3. 这条路很长。
    Show answer · 查看答案这条路很长。
    这条路很长。 · Zhè tiáo lù hěn cháng.
  7. In this lesson, what does “这里不贵。” mean?
    1. It is not expensive here.
    2. Are you busy?
    3. It is cold today.
    Show answer · 查看答案It is not expensive here.
    Zhè lǐ bú guì. · It is not expensive here.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “I am tired.”?
    1. 这个问题很难。
    2. 我很累。
    3. 这杯茶很热。
    Show answer · 查看答案我很累。
    我很累。 · Wǒ hěn lèi.
  9. In this lesson, what does “这碗汤太咸了。” mean?
    1. The room is quiet.
    2. His voice is quiet.
    3. This soup is too salty.
    Show answer · 查看答案This soup is too salty.
    Zhè wǎn tāng tài xián le. · This soup is too salty.
  10. Which pinyin reads “你忙吗？”?
    1. Nǐ máng ma?
    2. Jīn tiān hěn lěng.
    3. Zhè tiáo lù hěn cháng.
    Show answer · 查看答案Nǐ máng ma?
    你忙吗？ means “Are you busy?”
5. “有”表示拥有和存在 — Having and existing
有 / 没有

Use 有 for possession or existence. Its ordinary negative is 没有, not 不有.

Notice: To say where someone is, use 在 rather than 有.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
这里有一家店。
Zhèlǐ yǒu yì jiā diàn.
There is a shop here.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我有一张地图。
Wǒ yǒu yì zhāng dì tú.
I have a map.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
桌子上有两杯水。
Zhuō zi shàng yǒu liǎng bēi shuǐ.
There are two glasses of water on the table.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
她没有护照。
Tā méi yǒu hù zhào.
She does not have a passport.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
这里有洗手间吗？
Zhè lǐ yǒu xǐ shǒu jiān ma?
Is there a restroom here?
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
公园里有很多树。
Gōng yuán lǐ yǒu hěn duō shù.
There are many trees in the park.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我们有时间。
Wǒ men yǒu shí jiān.
We have time.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
这家店没有咖啡。
Zhè jiā diàn méi yǒu kā fēi.
This shop does not have coffee.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
门口有一个人。
Ménkǒu yǒu yí ge rén.
There is a person at the entrance.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
你有零钱吗？
Nǐ yǒu líng qián ma?
Do you have change?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. How do you say “there is no shop here”?
    1. 这里没有店。
    2. 这里不有店。
    3. 这里不是店。
    Show answer · 查看答案这里没有店。
    Use 有 for possession or existence. Its ordinary negative is 没有, not 不有.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I have a map.”?
    1. 这家店没有咖啡。
    2. 我有一张地图。
    3. 这里有洗手间吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案我有一张地图。
    我有一张地图。 · Wǒ yǒu yì zhāng dì tú.
  3. In this lesson, what does “桌子上有两杯水。” mean?
    1. There are many trees in the park.
    2. There is a person at the entrance.
    3. There are two glasses of water on the table.
    Show answer · 查看答案There are two glasses of water on the table.
    Zhuō zi shàng yǒu liǎng bēi shuǐ. · There are two glasses of water on the table.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “She does not have a passport.”?
    1. 她没有护照。
    2. 我们有时间。
    3. 你有零钱吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案她没有护照。
    她没有护照。 · Tā méi yǒu hù zhào.
  5. In this lesson, what does “这里有洗手间吗？” mean?
    1. There is a shop here.
    2. Is there a restroom here?
    3. This shop does not have coffee.
    Show answer · 查看答案Is there a restroom here?
    Zhè lǐ yǒu xǐ shǒu jiān ma? · Is there a restroom here?
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “There are many trees in the park.”?
    1. 门口有一个人。
    2. 我有一张地图。
    3. 公园里有很多树。
    Show answer · 查看答案公园里有很多树。
    公园里有很多树。 · Gōng yuán lǐ yǒu hěn duō shù.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我们有时间。” mean?
    1. We have time.
    2. Do you have change?
    3. There are two glasses of water on the table.
    Show answer · 查看答案We have time.
    Wǒ men yǒu shí jiān. · We have time.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “This shop does not have coffee.”?
    1. 她没有护照。
    2. 这家店没有咖啡。
    3. 这里有一家店。
    Show answer · 查看答案这家店没有咖啡。
    这家店没有咖啡。 · Zhè jiā diàn méi yǒu kā fēi.
  9. In this lesson, what does “门口有一个人。” mean?
    1. I have a map.
    2. Is there a restroom here?
    3. There is a person at the entrance.
    Show answer · 查看答案There is a person at the entrance.
    Ménkǒu yǒu yí ge rén. · There is a person at the entrance.
  10. Which pinyin reads “你有零钱吗？”?
    1. Nǐ yǒu líng qián ma?
    2. Zhuō zi shàng yǒu liǎng bēi shuǐ.
    3. Gōng yuán lǐ yǒu hěn duō shù.
    Show answer · 查看答案Nǐ yǒu líng qián ma?
    你有零钱吗？ means “Do you have change?”
6. 人或物在哪里 — Where someone or something is
person or thing + 在 + place

Use 在 as a predicate for a location: “be at/in.” A locative like 里 or 上 can make the position precise.

Notice: Existence 有 and location 在 answer different questions.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
钥匙在包里。
Yàoshi zài bāo lǐ.
The keys are in the bag.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我在酒店。
Wǒ zài jiǔ diàn.
I am at the hotel.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
猫在椅子下面。
Māo zài yǐ zi xià miàn.
The cat is under the chair.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
车站在前面。
Chēzhàn zài qián miàn.
The station is ahead.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
妈妈在厨房里。
Mā ma zài chú fáng lǐ.
Mom is in the kitchen.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
你的票在哪里？
Nǐ de piào zài nǎ lǐ?
Where is your ticket?
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
他们不在家。
Tā men bú zài jiā.
They are not at home.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
地图在手机里。
Dì tú zài shǒu jī lǐ.
The map is on the phone.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
超市在银行旁边。
Chāo shì zài yín háng páng biān.
The supermarket is next to the bank.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
行李在门口。
Xíng li zài ménkǒu.
The luggage is by the door.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which word locates the keys?
    1. 在
    2. 有
    3. 是
    Show answer · 查看答案在
    Use 在 as a predicate for a location: “be at/in.” A locative like 里 or 上 can make the position precise.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I am at the hotel.”?
    1. 地图在手机里。
    2. 我在酒店。
    3. 妈妈在厨房里。
    Show answer · 查看答案我在酒店。
    我在酒店。 · Wǒ zài jiǔ diàn.
  3. In this lesson, what does “猫在椅子下面。” mean?
    1. Where is your ticket?
    2. The supermarket is next to the bank.
    3. The cat is under the chair.
    Show answer · 查看答案The cat is under the chair.
    Māo zài yǐ zi xià miàn. · The cat is under the chair.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “The station is ahead.”?
    1. 车站在前面。
    2. 他们不在家。
    3. 行李在门口。
    Show answer · 查看答案车站在前面。
    车站在前面。 · Chēzhàn zài qián miàn.
  5. In this lesson, what does “妈妈在厨房里。” mean?
    1. The keys are in the bag.
    2. Mom is in the kitchen.
    3. The map is on the phone.
    Show answer · 查看答案Mom is in the kitchen.
    Mā ma zài chú fáng lǐ. · Mom is in the kitchen.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Where is your ticket?”?
    1. 超市在银行旁边。
    2. 我在酒店。
    3. 你的票在哪里？
    Show answer · 查看答案你的票在哪里？
    你的票在哪里？ · Nǐ de piào zài nǎ lǐ?
  7. In this lesson, what does “他们不在家。” mean?
    1. They are not at home.
    2. The luggage is by the door.
    3. The cat is under the chair.
    Show answer · 查看答案They are not at home.
    Tā men bú zài jiā. · They are not at home.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The map is on the phone.”?
    1. 车站在前面。
    2. 地图在手机里。
    3. 钥匙在包里。
    Show answer · 查看答案地图在手机里。
    地图在手机里。 · Dì tú zài shǒu jī lǐ.
  9. In this lesson, what does “超市在银行旁边。” mean?
    1. I am at the hotel.
    2. Mom is in the kitchen.
    3. The supermarket is next to the bank.
    Show answer · 查看答案The supermarket is next to the bank.
    Chāo shì zài yín háng páng biān. · The supermarket is next to the bank.
  10. Which pinyin reads “行李在门口。”?
    1. Xíng li zài ménkǒu.
    2. Māo zài yǐ zi xià miàn.
    3. Nǐ de piào zài nǎ lǐ?
    Show answer · 查看答案Xíng li zài ménkǒu.
    行李在门口。 means “The luggage is by the door.”
MODULE 02

疑问句与否定句 — Questions & negatives

Ask naturally and distinguish two kinds of “not.”

1. 用“吗”提问 — Yes-no questions with ma
statement + 吗？

Attach 吗 to a statement to ask whether it is true. Do not invert the word order.

Notice: Avoid putting 吗 after a question word like 什么 in a normal information question.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
你喝茶吗？
Nǐ hē chá ma?
Do you drink tea?
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
你会说中文吗？
Nǐ huì shuō zhōng wén ma?
Can you speak Chinese?
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
这辆车去机场吗？
Zhè liàng chē qù jī chǎng ma?
Does this vehicle go to the airport?
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
你有护照吗？
Nǐ yǒu hù zhào ma?
Do you have a passport?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
这里可以刷卡吗？
Zhè lǐ kě yǐ shuā kǎ ma?
Can I pay by card here?
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
他今天上班吗？
Tā jīn tiān shàng bān ma?
Is he working today?
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
这个位子有人吗？
Zhè ge wèizi yǒu rén ma?
Is this seat taken?
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
你喜欢辣的吗？
Nǐ xǐ huan là de ma?
Do you like spicy food?
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
我们现在出发吗？
Wǒ men xiàn zài chū fā ma?
Are we leaving now?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
这家店还开着吗？
Zhè jiā diàn hái kāi zhe ma?
Is this shop still open?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What changes a statement into a yes-no question?
    1. move the verb to the front
    2. add 是 before the subject
    3. add 吗 at the end
    Show answer · 查看答案add 吗 at the end
    Attach 吗 to a statement to ask whether it is true. Do not invert the word order.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Can you speak Chinese?”?
    1. 你会说中文吗？
    2. 这里可以刷卡吗？
    3. 你喜欢辣的吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案你会说中文吗？
    你会说中文吗？ · Nǐ huì shuō zhōng wén ma?
  3. In this lesson, what does “这辆车去机场吗？” mean?
    1. Are we leaving now?
    2. Does this vehicle go to the airport?
    3. Is he working today?
    Show answer · 查看答案Does this vehicle go to the airport?
    Zhè liàng chē qù jī chǎng ma? · Does this vehicle go to the airport?
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Do you have a passport?”?
    1. 这个位子有人吗？
    2. 这家店还开着吗？
    3. 你有护照吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案你有护照吗？
    你有护照吗？ · Nǐ yǒu hù zhào ma?
  5. In this lesson, what does “这里可以刷卡吗？” mean?
    1. Can I pay by card here?
    2. Do you like spicy food?
    3. Do you drink tea?
    Show answer · 查看答案Can I pay by card here?
    Zhè lǐ kě yǐ shuā kǎ ma? · Can I pay by card here?
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Is he working today?”?
    1. 你会说中文吗？
    2. 他今天上班吗？
    3. 我们现在出发吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案他今天上班吗？
    他今天上班吗？ · Tā jīn tiān shàng bān ma?
  7. In this lesson, what does “这个位子有人吗？” mean?
    1. Is this shop still open?
    2. Does this vehicle go to the airport?
    3. Is this seat taken?
    Show answer · 查看答案Is this seat taken?
    Zhè ge wèizi yǒu rén ma? · Is this seat taken?
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Do you like spicy food?”?
    1. 你喜欢辣的吗？
    2. 你喝茶吗？
    3. 你有护照吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案你喜欢辣的吗？
    你喜欢辣的吗？ · Nǐ xǐ huan là de ma?
  9. In this lesson, what does “我们现在出发吗？” mean?
    1. Can I pay by card here?
    2. Are we leaving now?
    3. Can you speak Chinese?
    Show answer · 查看答案Are we leaving now?
    Wǒ men xiàn zài chū fā ma? · Are we leaving now?
  10. Which pinyin reads “这家店还开着吗？”?
    1. Zhè liàng chē qù jī chǎng ma?
    2. Tā jīn tiān shàng bān ma?
    3. Zhè jiā diàn hái kāi zhe ma?
    Show answer · 查看答案Zhè jiā diàn hái kāi zhe ma?
    这家店还开着吗？ means “Is this shop still open?”
2. 用“呢”接着问 — Follow-up questions with ne
topic + 呢？

呢 can return a question to someone or ask about an already understood topic.

Notice: It needs a clear context; it does not replace every question word.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我很好，你呢？
Wǒ hěn hǎo, nǐ ne?
I’m well. And you?
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我点面条，你呢？
Wǒ diǎn miàn tiáo, nǐ ne?
I'm ordering noodles. And you?
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我的包在这里，你的呢？
Wǒ de bāo zài zhè lǐ, nǐ de ne?
My bag is here. Where's yours?
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
他已经到了，老师呢？
Tā yǐ jīng dào le, lǎo shī ne?
He has arrived. What about the teacher?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
今天很冷，明天呢？
Jīn tiān hěn lěng, míng tiān ne?
It is cold today. What about tomorrow?
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我会游泳，她呢？
Wǒ huì yóu yǒng, tā ne?
I can swim. Can she?
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
咖啡卖完了，茶呢？
Kā fēi mài wán le, chá ne?
The coffee is sold out. How about tea?
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我们坐地铁，他们呢？
Wǒ men zuò dì tiě, tā men ne?
We're taking the subway. What about them?
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
这张票十元，那张呢？
Zhè zhāng piào shí yuán, nà zhāng ne?
This ticket is ten yuan. What about that one?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我住三楼，你呢？
Wǒ zhù sān lóu, nǐ ne?
I live on the third floor. And you?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. In “你呢？”, what does 呢 do?
    1. marks completed action
    2. counts people
    3. asks about you in context
    Show answer · 查看答案asks about you in context
    呢 can return a question to someone or ask about an already understood topic.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I'm ordering noodles. And you?”?
    1. 我点面条，你呢？
    2. 今天很冷，明天呢？
    3. 我们坐地铁，他们呢？
    Show answer · 查看答案我点面条，你呢？
    我点面条，你呢？ · Wǒ diǎn miàn tiáo, nǐ ne?
  3. In this lesson, what does “我的包在这里，你的呢？” mean?
    1. This ticket is ten yuan. What about that one?
    2. My bag is here. Where's yours?
    3. I can swim. Can she?
    Show answer · 查看答案My bag is here. Where's yours?
    Wǒ de bāo zài zhè lǐ, nǐ de ne? · My bag is here. Where's yours?
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “He has arrived. What about the teacher?”?
    1. 咖啡卖完了，茶呢？
    2. 我住三楼，你呢？
    3. 他已经到了，老师呢？
    Show answer · 查看答案他已经到了，老师呢？
    他已经到了，老师呢？ · Tā yǐ jīng dào le, lǎo shī ne?
  5. In this lesson, what does “今天很冷，明天呢？” mean?
    1. It is cold today. What about tomorrow?
    2. We're taking the subway. What about them?
    3. I’m well. And you?
    Show answer · 查看答案It is cold today. What about tomorrow?
    Jīn tiān hěn lěng, míng tiān ne? · It is cold today. What about tomorrow?
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “I can swim. Can she?”?
    1. 我点面条，你呢？
    2. 我会游泳，她呢？
    3. 这张票十元，那张呢？
    Show answer · 查看答案我会游泳，她呢？
    我会游泳，她呢？ · Wǒ huì yóu yǒng, tā ne?
  7. In this lesson, what does “咖啡卖完了，茶呢？” mean?
    1. I live on the third floor. And you?
    2. My bag is here. Where's yours?
    3. The coffee is sold out. How about tea?
    Show answer · 查看答案The coffee is sold out. How about tea?
    Kā fēi mài wán le, chá ne? · The coffee is sold out. How about tea?
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “We're taking the subway. What about them?”?
    1. 我们坐地铁，他们呢？
    2. 我很好，你呢？
    3. 他已经到了，老师呢？
    Show answer · 查看答案我们坐地铁，他们呢？
    我们坐地铁，他们呢？ · Wǒ men zuò dì tiě, tā men ne?
  9. In this lesson, what does “这张票十元，那张呢？” mean?
    1. It is cold today. What about tomorrow?
    2. This ticket is ten yuan. What about that one?
    3. I'm ordering noodles. And you?
    Show answer · 查看答案This ticket is ten yuan. What about that one?
    Zhè zhāng piào shí yuán, nà zhāng ne? · This ticket is ten yuan. What about that one?
  10. Which pinyin reads “我住三楼，你呢？”?
    1. Wǒ de bāo zài zhè lǐ, nǐ de ne?
    2. Wǒ huì yóu yǒng, tā ne?
    3. Wǒ zhù sān lóu, nǐ ne?
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ zhù sān lóu, nǐ ne?
    我住三楼，你呢？ means “I live on the third floor. And you?”
3. 疑问词留在原位 — Question words stay in place
replace the missing information

Put 谁, 什么, 哪儿, 什么时候, or 怎么 in the position the answer would occupy.

Notice: A normal question word usually does not take 吗 as well.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
你想吃什么？
Nǐ xiǎng chī shénme?
What do you want to eat?
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
谁在门口？
Shéi zài ménkǒu?
Who is at the door?
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
你住在哪里？
Nǐ zhù zài nǎ lǐ?
Where do you live?
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
火车什么时候到？
Huǒ chē shén me shí hou dào?
When does the train arrive?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我们怎么去机场？
Wǒ men zěn me qù jī chǎng?
How do we get to the airport?
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
你为什么笑？
Nǐ wèi shén me xiào?
Why are you laughing?
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
你要哪本书？
Nǐ yào nǎ běn shū?
Which book do you want?
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
这个字怎么读？
Zhè ge zì zěn me dú?
How do you pronounce this character?
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
他们去了哪里？
Tā men qù le nǎ lǐ?
Where did they go?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
谁买了这些票？
Shéi mǎi le zhè xiē piào?
Who bought these tickets?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Where does 什么 go?
    1. always at the start
    2. always after 吗
    3. where the answer would go
    Show answer · 查看答案where the answer would go
    Put 谁, 什么, 哪儿, 什么时候, or 怎么 in the position the answer would occupy.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Who is at the door?”?
    1. 谁在门口？
    2. 我们怎么去机场？
    3. 这个字怎么读？
    Show answer · 查看答案谁在门口？
    谁在门口？ · Shéi zài ménkǒu?
  3. In this lesson, what does “你住在哪里？” mean?
    1. Where did they go?
    2. Where do you live?
    3. Why are you laughing?
    Show answer · 查看答案Where do you live?
    Nǐ zhù zài nǎ lǐ? · Where do you live?
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “When does the train arrive?”?
    1. 你要哪本书？
    2. 谁买了这些票？
    3. 火车什么时候到？
    Show answer · 查看答案火车什么时候到？
    火车什么时候到？ · Huǒ chē shén me shí hou dào?
  5. In this lesson, what does “我们怎么去机场？” mean?
    1. How do we get to the airport?
    2. How do you pronounce this character?
    3. What do you want to eat?
    Show answer · 查看答案How do we get to the airport?
    Wǒ men zěn me qù jī chǎng? · How do we get to the airport?
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Why are you laughing?”?
    1. 谁在门口？
    2. 你为什么笑？
    3. 他们去了哪里？
    Show answer · 查看答案你为什么笑？
    你为什么笑？ · Nǐ wèi shén me xiào?
  7. In this lesson, what does “你要哪本书？” mean?
    1. Who bought these tickets?
    2. Where do you live?
    3. Which book do you want?
    Show answer · 查看答案Which book do you want?
    Nǐ yào nǎ běn shū? · Which book do you want?
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “How do you pronounce this character?”?
    1. 这个字怎么读？
    2. 你想吃什么？
    3. 火车什么时候到？
    Show answer · 查看答案这个字怎么读？
    这个字怎么读？ · Zhè ge zì zěn me dú?
  9. In this lesson, what does “他们去了哪里？” mean?
    1. How do we get to the airport?
    2. Where did they go?
    3. Who is at the door?
    Show answer · 查看答案Where did they go?
    Tā men qù le nǎ lǐ? · Where did they go?
  10. Which pinyin reads “谁买了这些票？”?
    1. Nǐ zhù zài nǎ lǐ?
    2. Nǐ wèi shén me xiào?
    3. Shéi mǎi le zhè xiē piào?
    Show answer · 查看答案Shéi mǎi le zhè xiē piào?
    谁买了这些票？ means “Who bought these tickets?”
4. 正反疑问句 — A-not-A questions
verb + 不 + verb

Repeat a verb or adjective around 不 to make a choice between yes and no. Common variants include 有没有.

Notice: This is already a question; do not append 吗.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
你去不去？
Nǐ qù bu qù?
Are you going or not?
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
你喝不喝茶？
Nǐ hē bu hē chá?
Are you going to drink tea or not?
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
这家店贵不贵？
Zhè jiā diàn guì bu guì?
Is this shop expensive?
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
你会不会游泳？
Nǐ huì bu huì yóu yǒng?
Can you swim or not?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
他有没有时间？
Tā yǒu méi yǒu shí jiān?
Does he have time?
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我们现在走不走？
Wǒ men xiàn zài zǒu bu zǒu?
Should we leave now or not?
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
这条路远不远？
Zhè tiáo lù yuǎn bu yuǎn?
Is this road far?
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
你想不想休息？
Nǐ xiǎng bu xiǎng xiū xi?
Do you want to rest?
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
这里能不能停车？
Zhè lǐ néng bu néng tíng chē?
Can we park here?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
她是不是医生？
Tā shì bú shì yī shēng?
Is she a doctor?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which is an A-not-A question?
    1. 你去吗不？
    2. 你不去吗去？
    3. 你去不去？
    Show answer · 查看答案你去不去？
    Repeat a verb or adjective around 不 to make a choice between yes and no. Common variants include 有没有.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Are you going to drink tea or not?”?
    1. 你喝不喝茶？
    2. 他有没有时间？
    3. 你想不想休息？
    Show answer · 查看答案你喝不喝茶？
    你喝不喝茶？ · Nǐ hē bu hē chá?
  3. In this lesson, what does “这家店贵不贵？” mean?
    1. Can we park here?
    2. Is this shop expensive?
    3. Should we leave now or not?
    Show answer · 查看答案Is this shop expensive?
    Zhè jiā diàn guì bu guì? · Is this shop expensive?
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Can you swim or not?”?
    1. 这条路远不远？
    2. 她是不是医生？
    3. 你会不会游泳？
    Show answer · 查看答案你会不会游泳？
    你会不会游泳？ · Nǐ huì bu huì yóu yǒng?
  5. In this lesson, what does “他有没有时间？” mean?
    1. Does he have time?
    2. Do you want to rest?
    3. Are you going or not?
    Show answer · 查看答案Does he have time?
    Tā yǒu méi yǒu shí jiān? · Does he have time?
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Should we leave now or not?”?
    1. 你喝不喝茶？
    2. 我们现在走不走？
    3. 这里能不能停车？
    Show answer · 查看答案我们现在走不走？
    我们现在走不走？ · Wǒ men xiàn zài zǒu bu zǒu?
  7. In this lesson, what does “这条路远不远？” mean?
    1. Is she a doctor?
    2. Is this shop expensive?
    3. Is this road far?
    Show answer · 查看答案Is this road far?
    Zhè tiáo lù yuǎn bu yuǎn? · Is this road far?
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Do you want to rest?”?
    1. 你想不想休息？
    2. 你去不去？
    3. 你会不会游泳？
    Show answer · 查看答案你想不想休息？
    你想不想休息？ · Nǐ xiǎng bu xiǎng xiū xi?
  9. In this lesson, what does “这里能不能停车？” mean?
    1. Does he have time?
    2. Can we park here?
    3. Are you going to drink tea or not?
    Show answer · 查看答案Can we park here?
    Zhè lǐ néng bu néng tíng chē? · Can we park here?
  10. Which pinyin reads “她是不是医生？”?
    1. Zhè jiā diàn guì bu guì?
    2. Wǒ men xiàn zài zǒu bu zǒu?
    3. Tā shì bú shì yī shēng?
    Show answer · 查看答案Tā shì bú shì yī shēng?
    她是不是医生？ means “Is she a doctor?”
5. “不”和“没（有）” — General “not” versus “did not / have not”
不 for general refusal; 没 for non-occurrence

不 commonly negates habits, intention, and future actions. 没(有) says something did not happen or has not happened.

Notice: Completed events generally use 没, and their negated verb normally loses 了.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我昨天没去。
Wǒ zuótiān méi qù.
I didn’t go yesterday.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我不喝咖啡。
Wǒ bù hē kā fēi.
I do not drink coffee.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
他明天不来。
Tā míng tiān bù lái.
He will not come tomorrow.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
她还没吃饭。
Tā hái méi chī fàn.
She has not eaten yet.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我们昨天没有买票。
Wǒ men zuó tiān méi yǒu mǎi piào.
We did not buy tickets yesterday.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我不想出去。
Wǒ bù xiǎng chū qù.
I do not want to go out.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
他上周没上班。
Tā shàng zhōu méi shàng bān.
He did not work last week.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
这里不卖酒。
Zhè lǐ bú mài jiǔ.
Alcohol is not sold here.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
我从来没去过上海。
Wǒ cóng lái méi qù guo shàng hǎi.
I have never been to Shanghai.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
他们今天没开门。
Tā men jīn tiān méi kāi mén.
They did not open today.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which negates a completed visit yesterday?
    1. 我昨天不去了。
    2. 我昨天不有去。
    3. 我昨天没去。
    Show answer · 查看答案我昨天没去。
    不 commonly negates habits, intention, and future actions. 没(有) says something did not happen or has not happened.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I do not drink coffee.”?
    1. 我不喝咖啡。
    2. 我们昨天没有买票。
    3. 这里不卖酒。
    Show answer · 查看答案我不喝咖啡。
    我不喝咖啡。 · Wǒ bù hē kā fēi.
  3. In this lesson, what does “他明天不来。” mean?
    1. I have never been to Shanghai.
    2. He will not come tomorrow.
    3. I do not want to go out.
    Show answer · 查看答案He will not come tomorrow.
    Tā míng tiān bù lái. · He will not come tomorrow.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “She has not eaten yet.”?
    1. 他上周没上班。
    2. 他们今天没开门。
    3. 她还没吃饭。
    Show answer · 查看答案她还没吃饭。
    她还没吃饭。 · Tā hái méi chī fàn.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我们昨天没有买票。” mean?
    1. We did not buy tickets yesterday.
    2. Alcohol is not sold here.
    3. I didn’t go yesterday.
    Show answer · 查看答案We did not buy tickets yesterday.
    Wǒ men zuó tiān méi yǒu mǎi piào. · We did not buy tickets yesterday.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “I do not want to go out.”?
    1. 我不喝咖啡。
    2. 我不想出去。
    3. 我从来没去过上海。
    Show answer · 查看答案我不想出去。
    我不想出去。 · Wǒ bù xiǎng chū qù.
  7. In this lesson, what does “他上周没上班。” mean?
    1. They did not open today.
    2. He will not come tomorrow.
    3. He did not work last week.
    Show answer · 查看答案He did not work last week.
    Tā shàng zhōu méi shàng bān. · He did not work last week.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Alcohol is not sold here.”?
    1. 这里不卖酒。
    2. 我昨天没去。
    3. 她还没吃饭。
    Show answer · 查看答案这里不卖酒。
    这里不卖酒。 · Zhè lǐ bú mài jiǔ.
  9. In this lesson, what does “我从来没去过上海。” mean?
    1. We did not buy tickets yesterday.
    2. I have never been to Shanghai.
    3. I do not drink coffee.
    Show answer · 查看答案I have never been to Shanghai.
    Wǒ cóng lái méi qù guo shàng hǎi. · I have never been to Shanghai.
  10. Which pinyin reads “他们今天没开门。”?
    1. Tā míng tiān bù lái.
    2. Wǒ bù xiǎng chū qù.
    3. Tā men jīn tiān méi kāi mén.
    Show answer · 查看答案Tā men jīn tiān méi kāi mén.
    他们今天没开门。 means “They did not open today.”
6. 问数量、价钱和年龄 — How many, how much, how old
几 / 多少 / 多大

几 usually asks for a relatively small count and takes a classifier; 多少 handles broader quantities or prices; 多大 asks size or age in context.

Notice: 多少钱 is the everyday question for a price.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
这张票多少钱？
Zhè zhāng piào duōshao qián?
How much is this ticket?
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
你有几个孩子？
Nǐ yǒu jǐ gè hái zi?
How many children do you have?
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
这个房间能住多少人？
Zhè ge fáng jiān néng zhù duō shao rén?
How many people can stay in this room?
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
你儿子多大了？
Nǐ ér zi duō dà le?
How old is your son?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
这杯咖啡多少钱？
Zhè bēi kā fēi duō shao qián?
How much is this coffee?
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
车票要几张？
Chē piào yào jǐ zhāng?
How many tickets do you need?
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我们还要等多久？
Wǒ men hái yào děng duō jiǔ?
How much longer do we need to wait?
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
从这里到机场有多远？
Cóng zhè lǐ dào jī chǎng yǒu duō yuǎn?
How far is the airport from here?
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
你几点出发？
Nǐ jǐ diǎn chū fā?
What time are you leaving?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
这件衣服有多大？
Zhè jiàn yī fu yǒu duō dà?
How big is this piece of clothing?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which asks a ticket’s price?
    1. 几岁
    2. 什么时候
    3. 多少钱
    Show answer · 查看答案多少钱
    几 usually asks for a relatively small count and takes a classifier; 多少 handles broader quantities or prices; 多大 asks size or age in context.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “How many children do you have?”?
    1. 你有几个孩子？
    2. 这杯咖啡多少钱？
    3. 从这里到机场有多远？
    Show answer · 查看答案你有几个孩子？
    你有几个孩子？ · Nǐ yǒu jǐ gè hái zi?
  3. In this lesson, what does “这个房间能住多少人？” mean?
    1. What time are you leaving?
    2. How many people can stay in this room?
    3. How many tickets do you need?
    Show answer · 查看答案How many people can stay in this room?
    Zhè ge fáng jiān néng zhù duō shao rén? · How many people can stay in this room?
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “How old is your son?”?
    1. 我们还要等多久？
    2. 这件衣服有多大？
    3. 你儿子多大了？
    Show answer · 查看答案你儿子多大了？
    你儿子多大了？ · Nǐ ér zi duō dà le?
  5. In this lesson, what does “这杯咖啡多少钱？” mean?
    1. How much is this coffee?
    2. How far is the airport from here?
    3. How much is this ticket?
    Show answer · 查看答案How much is this coffee?
    Zhè bēi kā fēi duō shao qián? · How much is this coffee?
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “How many tickets do you need?”?
    1. 你有几个孩子？
    2. 车票要几张？
    3. 你几点出发？
    Show answer · 查看答案车票要几张？
    车票要几张？ · Chē piào yào jǐ zhāng?
  7. In this lesson, what does “我们还要等多久？” mean?
    1. How big is this piece of clothing?
    2. How many people can stay in this room?
    3. How much longer do we need to wait?
    Show answer · 查看答案How much longer do we need to wait?
    Wǒ men hái yào děng duō jiǔ? · How much longer do we need to wait?
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “How far is the airport from here?”?
    1. 从这里到机场有多远？
    2. 这张票多少钱？
    3. 你儿子多大了？
    Show answer · 查看答案从这里到机场有多远？
    从这里到机场有多远？ · Cóng zhè lǐ dào jī chǎng yǒu duō yuǎn?
  9. In this lesson, what does “你几点出发？” mean?
    1. How much is this coffee?
    2. What time are you leaving?
    3. How many children do you have?
    Show answer · 查看答案What time are you leaving?
    Nǐ jǐ diǎn chū fā? · What time are you leaving?
  10. Which pinyin reads “这件衣服有多大？”?
    1. Zhè ge fáng jiān néng zhù duō shao rén?
    2. Chē piào yào jǐ zhāng?
    3. Zhè jiàn yī fu yǒu duō dà?
    Show answer · 查看答案Zhè jiàn yī fu yǒu duō dà?
    这件衣服有多大？ means “How big is this piece of clothing?”
MODULE 03

名词与数量 — Nouns & quantities

Point to things, count them, and express amounts.

1. 量词 — Measure words
number + classifier + noun

Most counted nouns need a measure word between the number and the noun. 个 is common, but many nouns have specific choices.

Notice: 本 counts bound books; 杯 counts cups or cupfuls.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我要两本书。
Wǒ yào liǎng běn shū.
I want two books.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我买了一杯咖啡。
Wǒ mǎi le yì bēi kā fēi.
I bought a cup of coffee.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
桌上有三张票。
Zhuō shàng yǒu sān zhāng piào.
There are three tickets on the table.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
她养了一只猫。
Tā yǎng le yì zhī māo.
She has a cat.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
请给我一碗汤。
Qǐng gěi wǒ yì wǎn tāng.
Please give me a bowl of soup.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我们有两个孩子。
Wǒ men yǒu liǎng ge hái zi.
We have two children.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
他带了四瓶水。
Tā dài le sì píng shuǐ.
He brought four bottles of water.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我看了那部电影。
Wǒ kàn le nà bù diàn yǐng.
I watched that movie.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
你要哪件衣服？
Nǐ yào nǎ jiàn yī fu?
Which piece of clothing do you want?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
这条路很窄。
Zhè tiáo lù hěn zhǎi.
This road is narrow.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which counts two books naturally?
    1. 二书本
    2. 两本书
    3. 两书
    Show answer · 查看答案两本书
    Most counted nouns need a measure word between the number and the noun. 个 is common, but many nouns have specific choices.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I bought a cup of coffee.”?
    1. 请给我一碗汤。
    2. 我看了那部电影。
    3. 我买了一杯咖啡。
    Show answer · 查看答案我买了一杯咖啡。
    我买了一杯咖啡。 · Wǒ mǎi le yì bēi kā fēi.
  3. In this lesson, what does “桌上有三张票。” mean?
    1. There are three tickets on the table.
    2. We have two children.
    3. Which piece of clothing do you want?
    Show answer · 查看答案There are three tickets on the table.
    Zhuō shàng yǒu sān zhāng piào. · There are three tickets on the table.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “She has a cat.”?
    1. 这条路很窄。
    2. 她养了一只猫。
    3. 他带了四瓶水。
    Show answer · 查看答案她养了一只猫。
    她养了一只猫。 · Tā yǎng le yì zhī māo.
  5. In this lesson, what does “请给我一碗汤。” mean?
    1. I watched that movie.
    2. I want two books.
    3. Please give me a bowl of soup.
    Show answer · 查看答案Please give me a bowl of soup.
    Qǐng gěi wǒ yì wǎn tāng. · Please give me a bowl of soup.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “We have two children.”?
    1. 我们有两个孩子。
    2. 你要哪件衣服？
    3. 我买了一杯咖啡。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们有两个孩子。
    我们有两个孩子。 · Wǒ men yǒu liǎng ge hái zi.
  7. In this lesson, what does “他带了四瓶水。” mean?
    1. There are three tickets on the table.
    2. He brought four bottles of water.
    3. This road is narrow.
    Show answer · 查看答案He brought four bottles of water.
    Tā dài le sì píng shuǐ. · He brought four bottles of water.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “I watched that movie.”?
    1. 我要两本书。
    2. 她养了一只猫。
    3. 我看了那部电影。
    Show answer · 查看答案我看了那部电影。
    我看了那部电影。 · Wǒ kàn le nà bù diàn yǐng.
  9. In this lesson, what does “你要哪件衣服？” mean?
    1. Which piece of clothing do you want?
    2. I bought a cup of coffee.
    3. Please give me a bowl of soup.
    Show answer · 查看答案Which piece of clothing do you want?
    Nǐ yào nǎ jiàn yī fu? · Which piece of clothing do you want?
  10. Which pinyin reads “这条路很窄。”?
    1. Wǒ men yǒu liǎng ge hái zi.
    2. Zhè tiáo lù hěn zhǎi.
    3. Zhuō shàng yǒu sān zhāng piào.
    Show answer · 查看答案Zhè tiáo lù hěn zhǎi.
    这条路很窄。 means “This road is narrow.”
2. “二”和“两” — The two forms of “two”
两 + classifier

Use 两 before a classifier in everyday counting. Use 二 in ordered numbers and many multi-digit numbers.

Notice: 十二 is twelve; 第二 is second.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我买了两张票。
Wǒ mǎi le liǎng zhāng piào.
I bought two tickets.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我们要两杯茶。
Wǒ men yào liǎng bēi chá.
We want two cups of tea.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
今天是二月二号。
Jīn tiān shì èr yuè èr hào.
Today is February second.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
第二个路口左转。
Dì èr ge lù kǒu zuǒ zhuǎn.
Turn left at the second intersection.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我有两个哥哥。
Wǒ yǒu liǎng ge gē ge.
I have two older brothers.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这辆车二十二分钟后到。
Zhè liàng chē èr shí èr fēn zhōng hòu dào.
This vehicle arrives in twenty-two minutes.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
她买了两斤苹果。
Tā mǎi le liǎng jīn píng guǒ.
She bought two jin of apples.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我住在二楼。
Wǒ zhù zài èr lóu.
I live on the second floor.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
请给我两张地图。
Qǐng gěi wǒ liǎng zhāng dì tú.
Please give me two maps.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
这个词有两个意思。
Zhè ge cí yǒu liǎng ge yì si.
This word has two meanings.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which normally goes before 张票?
    1. 二十
    2. 两
    3. 第
    Show answer · 查看答案两
    Use 两 before a classifier in everyday counting. Use 二 in ordered numbers and many multi-digit numbers.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “We want two cups of tea.”?
    1. 我有两个哥哥。
    2. 我住在二楼。
    3. 我们要两杯茶。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们要两杯茶。
    我们要两杯茶。 · Wǒ men yào liǎng bēi chá.
  3. In this lesson, what does “今天是二月二号。” mean?
    1. Today is February second.
    2. This vehicle arrives in twenty-two minutes.
    3. Please give me two maps.
    Show answer · 查看答案Today is February second.
    Jīn tiān shì èr yuè èr hào. · Today is February second.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Turn left at the second intersection.”?
    1. 这个词有两个意思。
    2. 第二个路口左转。
    3. 她买了两斤苹果。
    Show answer · 查看答案第二个路口左转。
    第二个路口左转。 · Dì èr ge lù kǒu zuǒ zhuǎn.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我有两个哥哥。” mean?
    1. I live on the second floor.
    2. I bought two tickets.
    3. I have two older brothers.
    Show answer · 查看答案I have two older brothers.
    Wǒ yǒu liǎng ge gē ge. · I have two older brothers.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “This vehicle arrives in twenty-two minutes.”?
    1. 这辆车二十二分钟后到。
    2. 请给我两张地图。
    3. 我们要两杯茶。
    Show answer · 查看答案这辆车二十二分钟后到。
    这辆车二十二分钟后到。 · Zhè liàng chē èr shí èr fēn zhōng hòu dào.
  7. In this lesson, what does “她买了两斤苹果。” mean?
    1. Today is February second.
    2. She bought two jin of apples.
    3. This word has two meanings.
    Show answer · 查看答案She bought two jin of apples.
    Tā mǎi le liǎng jīn píng guǒ. · She bought two jin of apples.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “I live on the second floor.”?
    1. 我买了两张票。
    2. 第二个路口左转。
    3. 我住在二楼。
    Show answer · 查看答案我住在二楼。
    我住在二楼。 · Wǒ zhù zài èr lóu.
  9. In this lesson, what does “请给我两张地图。” mean?
    1. Please give me two maps.
    2. We want two cups of tea.
    3. I have two older brothers.
    Show answer · 查看答案Please give me two maps.
    Qǐng gěi wǒ liǎng zhāng dì tú. · Please give me two maps.
  10. Which pinyin reads “这个词有两个意思。”?
    1. Zhè liàng chē èr shí èr fēn zhōng hòu dào.
    2. Zhè ge cí yǒu liǎng ge yì si.
    3. Jīn tiān shì èr yuè èr hào.
    Show answer · 查看答案Zhè ge cí yǒu liǎng ge yì si.
    这个词有两个意思。 means “This word has two meanings.”
3. 这、那、哪 — This, that, which
这 / 那 / 哪 + classifier + noun

A demonstrative or 哪 normally goes before the classifier and noun.

Notice: In speech, 这 and 那 may sound like zhèi and nèi before classifiers.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
那家店在哪儿？
Nà jiā diàn zài nǎr?
Where is that shop?
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
这杯水是我的。
Zhè bēi shuǐ shì wǒ de.
This glass of water is mine.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
那个人是医生。
Nà ge rén shì yī shēng.
That person is a doctor.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
你要哪张票？
Nǐ yào nǎ zhāng piào?
Which ticket do you want?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
这条路通向机场。
Zhè tiáo lù tōngxiàng jī chǎng.
This road leads to the airport.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
那本书在桌上。
Nà běn shū zài zhuō shàng.
That book is on the table.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
哪家酒店离车站近？
Nǎ jiā jiǔ diàn lí chēzhàn jìn?
Which hotel is close to the station?
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我喜欢这件衣服。
Wǒ xǐ huan zhè jiàn yī fu.
I like this piece of clothing.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
那个孩子会说中文。
Nà ge hái zi huì shuō zhōng wén.
That child can speak Chinese.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
你认识哪位老师？
Nǐ rèn shi nǎ wèi lǎo shī?
Which teacher do you know?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. How do you say “which shop”?
    1. 店哪家
    2. 哪家店
    3. 哪店家
    Show answer · 查看答案哪家店
    A demonstrative or 哪 normally goes before the classifier and noun.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “This glass of water is mine.”?
    1. 这条路通向机场。
    2. 我喜欢这件衣服。
    3. 这杯水是我的。
    Show answer · 查看答案这杯水是我的。
    这杯水是我的。 · Zhè bēi shuǐ shì wǒ de.
  3. In this lesson, what does “那个人是医生。” mean?
    1. That person is a doctor.
    2. That book is on the table.
    3. That child can speak Chinese.
    Show answer · 查看答案That person is a doctor.
    Nà ge rén shì yī shēng. · That person is a doctor.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Which ticket do you want?”?
    1. 你认识哪位老师？
    2. 你要哪张票？
    3. 哪家酒店离车站近？
    Show answer · 查看答案你要哪张票？
    你要哪张票？ · Nǐ yào nǎ zhāng piào?
  5. In this lesson, what does “这条路通向机场。” mean?
    1. I like this piece of clothing.
    2. Where is that shop?
    3. This road leads to the airport.
    Show answer · 查看答案This road leads to the airport.
    Zhè tiáo lù tōngxiàng jī chǎng. · This road leads to the airport.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “That book is on the table.”?
    1. 那本书在桌上。
    2. 那个孩子会说中文。
    3. 这杯水是我的。
    Show answer · 查看答案那本书在桌上。
    那本书在桌上。 · Nà běn shū zài zhuō shàng.
  7. In this lesson, what does “哪家酒店离车站近？” mean?
    1. That person is a doctor.
    2. Which hotel is close to the station?
    3. Which teacher do you know?
    Show answer · 查看答案Which hotel is close to the station?
    Nǎ jiā jiǔ diàn lí chēzhàn jìn? · Which hotel is close to the station?
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “I like this piece of clothing.”?
    1. 那家店在哪儿？
    2. 你要哪张票？
    3. 我喜欢这件衣服。
    Show answer · 查看答案我喜欢这件衣服。
    我喜欢这件衣服。 · Wǒ xǐ huan zhè jiàn yī fu.
  9. In this lesson, what does “那个孩子会说中文。” mean?
    1. That child can speak Chinese.
    2. This glass of water is mine.
    3. This road leads to the airport.
    Show answer · 查看答案That child can speak Chinese.
    Nà ge hái zi huì shuō zhōng wén. · That child can speak Chinese.
  10. Which pinyin reads “你认识哪位老师？”?
    1. Nà běn shū zài zhuō shàng.
    2. Nǐ rèn shi nǎ wèi lǎo shī?
    3. Nà ge rén shì yī shēng.
    Show answer · 查看答案Nǐ rèn shi nǎ wèi lǎo shī?
    你认识哪位老师？ means “Which teacher do you know?”
4. 表示人的复数“们” — The plural marker for people
pronoun or person noun + 们

们 marks a group of people, especially pronouns. It is not a general plural ending for objects.

Notice: A number plus classifier already gives the count; avoid 三个学生们 in neutral speech.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我们在这里。
Wǒmen zài zhèlǐ.
We are here.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
他们在等车。
Tā men zài děng chē.
They are waiting for a vehicle.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
你们吃过了吗？
Nǐ men chī guo le ma?
Have you all eaten?
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
孩子们在公园玩。
Hái zi men zài gōng yuán wán.
The children are playing in the park.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
老师们都到了。
Lǎo shī men dōu dào le.
The teachers have all arrived.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我们明天见。
Wǒ men míng tiān jiàn.
We will see each other tomorrow.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
朋友们请进。
Péng you men qǐng jìn.
Friends, please come in.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
她们会说中文。
Tā men huì shuō zhōng wén.
They can speak Chinese.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
客人们已经走了。
Kè rén men yǐ jīng zǒu le.
The guests have already left.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
同学们正在写字。
Tóng xué men zhèng zài xiě zì.
The classmates are writing characters.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which is an ordinary plural of 我?
    1. 我些
    2. 我们
    3. 我个
    Show answer · 查看答案我们
    们 marks a group of people, especially pronouns. It is not a general plural ending for objects.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “They are waiting for a vehicle.”?
    1. 老师们都到了。
    2. 她们会说中文。
    3. 他们在等车。
    Show answer · 查看答案他们在等车。
    他们在等车。 · Tā men zài děng chē.
  3. In this lesson, what does “你们吃过了吗？” mean?
    1. Have you all eaten?
    2. We will see each other tomorrow.
    3. The guests have already left.
    Show answer · 查看答案Have you all eaten?
    Nǐ men chī guo le ma? · Have you all eaten?
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “The children are playing in the park.”?
    1. 同学们正在写字。
    2. 孩子们在公园玩。
    3. 朋友们请进。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子们在公园玩。
    孩子们在公园玩。 · Hái zi men zài gōng yuán wán.
  5. In this lesson, what does “老师们都到了。” mean?
    1. They can speak Chinese.
    2. We are here.
    3. The teachers have all arrived.
    Show answer · 查看答案The teachers have all arrived.
    Lǎo shī men dōu dào le. · The teachers have all arrived.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “We will see each other tomorrow.”?
    1. 我们明天见。
    2. 客人们已经走了。
    3. 他们在等车。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们明天见。
    我们明天见。 · Wǒ men míng tiān jiàn.
  7. In this lesson, what does “朋友们请进。” mean?
    1. Have you all eaten?
    2. Friends, please come in.
    3. The classmates are writing characters.
    Show answer · 查看答案Friends, please come in.
    Péng you men qǐng jìn. · Friends, please come in.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “They can speak Chinese.”?
    1. 我们在这里。
    2. 孩子们在公园玩。
    3. 她们会说中文。
    Show answer · 查看答案她们会说中文。
    她们会说中文。 · Tā men huì shuō zhōng wén.
  9. In this lesson, what does “客人们已经走了。” mean?
    1. The guests have already left.
    2. They are waiting for a vehicle.
    3. The teachers have all arrived.
    Show answer · 查看答案The guests have already left.
    Kè rén men yǐ jīng zǒu le. · The guests have already left.
  10. Which pinyin reads “同学们正在写字。”?
    1. Wǒ men míng tiān jiàn.
    2. Tóng xué men zhèng zài xiě zì.
    3. Nǐ men chī guo le ma?
    Show answer · 查看答案Tóng xué men zhèng zài xiě zì.
    同学们正在写字。 means “The classmates are writing characters.”
5. 一些、一点儿、每 — Some, a little, every
一些 / 一点儿 / 每…都

一些 is some countable or general amount; 一点儿 is a small amount; 每…都 expresses each and all.

Notice: 都 normally appears before the predicate.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
每个人都需要水。
Měi ge rén dōu xūyào shuǐ.
Everyone needs water.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
请给我一点儿水。
Qǐng gěi wǒ yìdiǎnr shuǐ.
Please give me a little water.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我想买一些水果。
Wǒ xiǎng mǎi yī xiē shuǐ guǒ.
I want to buy some fruit.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
每个房间都有窗户。
Měi ge fáng jiān dōu yǒu chuāng hu.
Every room has a window.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我们每天都学习。
Wǒ men měi tiān dōu xué xí.
We study every day.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这里只剩一点儿米饭。
Zhè lǐ zhǐ shèng yìdiǎnr mǐ fàn.
Only a little rice is left here.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
她认识一些中国朋友。
Tā rèn shi yī xiē zhōng guó péng you.
She knows some Chinese friends.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
每张票都要检查。
Měi zhāng piào dōu yào jiǎn chá.
Every ticket has to be checked.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
你可以等我一会儿吗？
Nǐ kě yǐ děng wǒ yī huìr ma?
Can you wait for me a little while?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
每个人都有自己的名字。
Měi ge rén dōu yǒu zì jǐ de míng zi.
Everyone has their own name.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Where does 都 usually go?
    1. between 每 and its classifier
    2. before the predicate
    3. after the object
    Show answer · 查看答案before the predicate
    一些 is some countable or general amount; 一点儿 is a small amount; 每…都 expresses each and all.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please give me a little water.”?
    1. 我们每天都学习。
    2. 每张票都要检查。
    3. 请给我一点儿水。
    Show answer · 查看答案请给我一点儿水。
    请给我一点儿水。 · Qǐng gěi wǒ yìdiǎnr shuǐ.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我想买一些水果。” mean?
    1. I want to buy some fruit.
    2. Only a little rice is left here.
    3. Can you wait for me a little while?
    Show answer · 查看答案I want to buy some fruit.
    Wǒ xiǎng mǎi yī xiē shuǐ guǒ. · I want to buy some fruit.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Every room has a window.”?
    1. 每个人都有自己的名字。
    2. 每个房间都有窗户。
    3. 她认识一些中国朋友。
    Show answer · 查看答案每个房间都有窗户。
    每个房间都有窗户。 · Měi ge fáng jiān dōu yǒu chuāng hu.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我们每天都学习。” mean?
    1. Every ticket has to be checked.
    2. Everyone needs water.
    3. We study every day.
    Show answer · 查看答案We study every day.
    Wǒ men měi tiān dōu xué xí. · We study every day.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Only a little rice is left here.”?
    1. 这里只剩一点儿米饭。
    2. 你可以等我一会儿吗？
    3. 请给我一点儿水。
    Show answer · 查看答案这里只剩一点儿米饭。
    这里只剩一点儿米饭。 · Zhè lǐ zhǐ shèng yìdiǎnr mǐ fàn.
  7. In this lesson, what does “她认识一些中国朋友。” mean?
    1. I want to buy some fruit.
    2. She knows some Chinese friends.
    3. Everyone has their own name.
    Show answer · 查看答案She knows some Chinese friends.
    Tā rèn shi yī xiē zhōng guó péng you. · She knows some Chinese friends.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Every ticket has to be checked.”?
    1. 每个人都需要水。
    2. 每个房间都有窗户。
    3. 每张票都要检查。
    Show answer · 查看答案每张票都要检查。
    每张票都要检查。 · Měi zhāng piào dōu yào jiǎn chá.
  9. In this lesson, what does “你可以等我一会儿吗？” mean?
    1. Can you wait for me a little while?
    2. Please give me a little water.
    3. We study every day.
    Show answer · 查看答案Can you wait for me a little while?
    Nǐ kě yǐ děng wǒ yī huìr ma? · Can you wait for me a little while?
  10. Which pinyin reads “每个人都有自己的名字。”?
    1. Zhè lǐ zhǐ shèng yìdiǎnr mǐ fàn.
    2. Měi ge rén dōu yǒu zì jǐ de míng zi.
    3. Wǒ xiǎng mǎi yī xiē shuǐ guǒ.
    Show answer · 查看答案Měi ge rén dōu yǒu zì jǐ de míng zi.
    每个人都有自己的名字。 means “Everyone has their own name.”
6. 数字、日期与顺序 — Numbers, dates, and order
year + month + day; 第 + number

Dates run from larger units to smaller ones. 第 makes an ordinal such as “first” or “second.”

Notice: 二月 is February; 两个月 means two months.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
今天是十月九号。
Jīntiān shì shí yuè jiǔ hào.
Today is October ninth.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
明天是十月十号。
Míng tiān shì shí yuè shí hào.
Tomorrow is October tenth.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我们星期二见。
Wǒ men xīng qī èr jiàn.
We will meet on Tuesday.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
这是我第一次来。
Zhè shì wǒ dì yī cì lái.
This is my first time here.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
第三站是机场。
Dì sān zhàn shì jī chǎng.
The third stop is the airport.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我住在五楼。
Wǒ zhù zài wǔ lóu.
I live on the fifth floor.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
他二零二五年来过。
Tā èr líng èr wǔ nián lái guo.
He came in 2025.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
请在六月一号以前报名。
Qǐng zài liù yuè yī hào yǐ qián bàomíng.
Please sign up before June first.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
现在是下午三点。
Xiàn zài shì xià wǔ sān diǎn.
It is three in the afternoon.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
第二杯茶是免费的。
Dì èr bēi chá shì miǎn fèi de.
The second cup of tea is free.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which means “the second day”?
    1. 二月
    2. 第二天
    3. 两天
    Show answer · 查看答案第二天
    Dates run from larger units to smaller ones. 第 makes an ordinal such as “first” or “second.”
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Tomorrow is October tenth.”?
    1. 第三站是机场。
    2. 请在六月一号以前报名。
    3. 明天是十月十号。
    Show answer · 查看答案明天是十月十号。
    明天是十月十号。 · Míng tiān shì shí yuè shí hào.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我们星期二见。” mean?
    1. We will meet on Tuesday.
    2. I live on the fifth floor.
    3. It is three in the afternoon.
    Show answer · 查看答案We will meet on Tuesday.
    Wǒ men xīng qī èr jiàn. · We will meet on Tuesday.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “This is my first time here.”?
    1. 第二杯茶是免费的。
    2. 这是我第一次来。
    3. 他二零二五年来过。
    Show answer · 查看答案这是我第一次来。
    这是我第一次来。 · Zhè shì wǒ dì yī cì lái.
  5. In this lesson, what does “第三站是机场。” mean?
    1. Please sign up before June first.
    2. Today is October ninth.
    3. The third stop is the airport.
    Show answer · 查看答案The third stop is the airport.
    Dì sān zhàn shì jī chǎng. · The third stop is the airport.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “I live on the fifth floor.”?
    1. 我住在五楼。
    2. 现在是下午三点。
    3. 明天是十月十号。
    Show answer · 查看答案我住在五楼。
    我住在五楼。 · Wǒ zhù zài wǔ lóu.
  7. In this lesson, what does “他二零二五年来过。” mean?
    1. We will meet on Tuesday.
    2. He came in 2025.
    3. The second cup of tea is free.
    Show answer · 查看答案He came in 2025.
    Tā èr líng èr wǔ nián lái guo. · He came in 2025.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please sign up before June first.”?
    1. 今天是十月九号。
    2. 这是我第一次来。
    3. 请在六月一号以前报名。
    Show answer · 查看答案请在六月一号以前报名。
    请在六月一号以前报名。 · Qǐng zài liù yuè yī hào yǐ qián bàomíng.
  9. In this lesson, what does “现在是下午三点。” mean?
    1. It is three in the afternoon.
    2. Tomorrow is October tenth.
    3. The third stop is the airport.
    Show answer · 查看答案It is three in the afternoon.
    Xiàn zài shì xià wǔ sān diǎn. · It is three in the afternoon.
  10. Which pinyin reads “第二杯茶是免费的。”?
    1. Wǒ zhù zài wǔ lóu.
    2. Dì èr bēi chá shì miǎn fèi de.
    3. Wǒ men xīng qī èr jiàn.
    Show answer · 查看答案Dì èr bēi chá shì miǎn fèi de.
    第二杯茶是免费的。 means “The second cup of tea is free.”
MODULE 04

时间、地点与方向 — Time, place & direction

Put events on a timeline and locate them in space.

1. 时间放在动词前 — Time before the verb
subject + time + verb

A time expression normally comes before the action; it may also begin the whole sentence.

Notice: Do not automatically put “tomorrow” at the end as in English.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我明天去北京。
Wǒ míngtiān qù Běijīng.
I’m going to Beijing tomorrow.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
他今晚做饭。
Tā jīn wǎn zuò fàn.
He is cooking tonight.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我们下周去上海。
Wǒ men xià zhōu qù shàng hǎi.
We are going to Shanghai next week.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
你几点起床？
Nǐ jǐ diǎn qǐ chuáng?
What time do you get up?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
她去年住在这里。
Tā qù nián zhù zài zhè lǐ.
She lived here last year.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
孩子们每天读书。
Hái zi men měi tiān dú shū.
The children read every day.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
周末我想休息。
Zhōu mò wǒ xiǎng xiū xi.
I want to rest on the weekend.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
他们昨天买了票。
Tā men zuó tiān mǎi le piào.
They bought tickets yesterday.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
我十分钟后回来。
Wǒ shí fēn zhōng hòu huí lái.
I will be back in ten minutes.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
明年她要学中文。
Míng nián tā yào xué zhōng wén.
She plans to learn Chinese next year.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Where is 明天 in a neutral sentence?
    1. before 去
    2. after 北京
    3. inside 北京
    Show answer · 查看答案before 去
    A time expression normally comes before the action; it may also begin the whole sentence.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “He is cooking tonight.”?
    1. 他们昨天买了票。
    2. 他今晚做饭。
    3. 她去年住在这里。
    Show answer · 查看答案他今晚做饭。
    他今晚做饭。 · Tā jīn wǎn zuò fàn.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我们下周去上海。” mean?
    1. The children read every day.
    2. I will be back in ten minutes.
    3. We are going to Shanghai next week.
    Show answer · 查看答案We are going to Shanghai next week.
    Wǒ men xià zhōu qù shàng hǎi. · We are going to Shanghai next week.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “What time do you get up?”?
    1. 你几点起床？
    2. 周末我想休息。
    3. 明年她要学中文。
    Show answer · 查看答案你几点起床？
    你几点起床？ · Nǐ jǐ diǎn qǐ chuáng?
  5. In this lesson, what does “她去年住在这里。” mean?
    1. I’m going to Beijing tomorrow.
    2. She lived here last year.
    3. They bought tickets yesterday.
    Show answer · 查看答案She lived here last year.
    Tā qù nián zhù zài zhè lǐ. · She lived here last year.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The children read every day.”?
    1. 我十分钟后回来。
    2. 他今晚做饭。
    3. 孩子们每天读书。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子们每天读书。
    孩子们每天读书。 · Hái zi men měi tiān dú shū.
  7. In this lesson, what does “周末我想休息。” mean?
    1. I want to rest on the weekend.
    2. She plans to learn Chinese next year.
    3. We are going to Shanghai next week.
    Show answer · 查看答案I want to rest on the weekend.
    Zhōu mò wǒ xiǎng xiū xi. · I want to rest on the weekend.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “They bought tickets yesterday.”?
    1. 你几点起床？
    2. 他们昨天买了票。
    3. 我明天去北京。
    Show answer · 查看答案他们昨天买了票。
    他们昨天买了票。 · Tā men zuó tiān mǎi le piào.
  9. In this lesson, what does “我十分钟后回来。” mean?
    1. He is cooking tonight.
    2. She lived here last year.
    3. I will be back in ten minutes.
    Show answer · 查看答案I will be back in ten minutes.
    Wǒ shí fēn zhōng hòu huí lái. · I will be back in ten minutes.
  10. Which pinyin reads “明年她要学中文。”?
    1. Míng nián tā yào xué zhōng wén.
    2. Wǒ men xià zhōu qù shàng hǎi.
    3. Hái zi men měi tiān dú shū.
    Show answer · 查看答案Míng nián tā yào xué zhōng wén.
    明年她要学中文。 means “She plans to learn Chinese next year.”
2. 用“在”说明动作地点 — Location with zài (“at / in”)
subject + 在 + place + action

Place 在 plus its location before the main action when describing where an action happens.

Notice: With 在 alone as the predicate, it means “be at.”

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我们在酒店吃饭。
Wǒmen zài jiǔdiàn chīfàn.
We eat at the hotel.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我在家工作。
Wǒ zài jiā gōng zuò.
I work at home.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
他们在公园散步。
Tā men zài gōng yuán sàn bù.
They take a walk in the park.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
我们在车站见。
Wǒ men zài chēzhàn jiàn.
We will meet at the station.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
她在厨房做饭。
Tā zài chú fáng zuò fàn.
She cooks in the kitchen.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
请在这里等我。
Qǐng zài zhè lǐ děng wǒ.
Please wait for me here.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
孩子在房间里睡觉。
Hái zi zài fáng jiān lǐ shuì jiào.
The child is sleeping in the room.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我在手机上看地图。
Wǒ zài shǒu jī shàng kàn dì tú.
I look at the map on my phone.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
你们在学校学中文吗？
Nǐ men zài xué xiào xué zhōng wén ma?
Do you study Chinese at school?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
他在门口打电话。
Tā zài ménkǒu dǎ diàn huà.
He is making a call by the door.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which says “eat at the hotel”?
    1. 在酒店吃饭
    2. 吃饭在酒店
    3. 酒店在吃饭
    Show answer · 查看答案在酒店吃饭
    Place 在 plus its location before the main action when describing where an action happens.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I work at home.”?
    1. 我在手机上看地图。
    2. 我在家工作。
    3. 她在厨房做饭。
    Show answer · 查看答案我在家工作。
    我在家工作。 · Wǒ zài jiā gōng zuò.
  3. In this lesson, what does “他们在公园散步。” mean?
    1. Please wait for me here.
    2. Do you study Chinese at school?
    3. They take a walk in the park.
    Show answer · 查看答案They take a walk in the park.
    Tā men zài gōng yuán sàn bù. · They take a walk in the park.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “We will meet at the station.”?
    1. 我们在车站见。
    2. 孩子在房间里睡觉。
    3. 他在门口打电话。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们在车站见。
    我们在车站见。 · Wǒ men zài chēzhàn jiàn.
  5. In this lesson, what does “她在厨房做饭。” mean?
    1. We eat at the hotel.
    2. She cooks in the kitchen.
    3. I look at the map on my phone.
    Show answer · 查看答案She cooks in the kitchen.
    Tā zài chú fáng zuò fàn. · She cooks in the kitchen.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please wait for me here.”?
    1. 你们在学校学中文吗？
    2. 我在家工作。
    3. 请在这里等我。
    Show answer · 查看答案请在这里等我。
    请在这里等我。 · Qǐng zài zhè lǐ děng wǒ.
  7. In this lesson, what does “孩子在房间里睡觉。” mean?
    1. The child is sleeping in the room.
    2. He is making a call by the door.
    3. They take a walk in the park.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child is sleeping in the room.
    Hái zi zài fáng jiān lǐ shuì jiào. · The child is sleeping in the room.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “I look at the map on my phone.”?
    1. 我们在车站见。
    2. 我在手机上看地图。
    3. 我们在酒店吃饭。
    Show answer · 查看答案我在手机上看地图。
    我在手机上看地图。 · Wǒ zài shǒu jī shàng kàn dì tú.
  9. In this lesson, what does “你们在学校学中文吗？” mean?
    1. I work at home.
    2. She cooks in the kitchen.
    3. Do you study Chinese at school?
    Show answer · 查看答案Do you study Chinese at school?
    Nǐ men zài xué xiào xué zhōng wén ma? · Do you study Chinese at school?
  10. Which pinyin reads “他在门口打电话。”?
    1. Tā zài ménkǒu dǎ diàn huà.
    2. Tā men zài gōng yuán sàn bù.
    3. Qǐng zài zhè lǐ děng wǒ.
    Show answer · 查看答案Tā zài ménkǒu dǎ diàn huà.
    他在门口打电话。 means “He is making a call by the door.”
3. 从、到、往、离 — From, to, toward, away
从 / 到 / 往 / 离

从 marks a starting point, 到 a destination, 往 a direction, and 离 a distance from a reference point.

Notice: 从…到… can mark a route or a time span.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
从这里到车站很近。
Cóng zhèlǐ dào chēzhàn hěn jìn.
It’s close from here to the station.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我从酒店走到车站。
Wǒ cóng jiǔ diàn zǒu dào chēzhàn.
I walk from the hotel to the station.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
请往左走。
Qǐng wǎng zuǒ zǒu.
Please walk left.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
这里离机场远吗？
Zhè lǐ lí jī chǎng yuǎn ma?
Is the airport far from here?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我们从九点工作到五点。
Wǒ men cóng jiǔ diǎn gōng zuò dào wǔ diǎn.
We work from nine to five.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这辆车开往市中心。
Zhè liàng chē kāi wǎng shì zhōng xīn.
This vehicle heads toward downtown.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
他从北京来。
Tā cóng běi jīng lái.
He comes from Beijing.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
到下一个路口右转。
Dào xià yí ge lù kǒu yòu zhuǎn.
Turn right at the next intersection.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
车站离这里很近。
Chēzhàn lí zhè lǐ hěn jìn.
The station is close to here.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我想从这里去医院。
Wǒ xiǎng cóng zhè lǐ qù yī yuàn.
I want to go from here to the hospital.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which word marks the starting point?
    1. 从
    2. 到
    3. 离
    Show answer · 查看答案从
    从 marks a starting point, 到 a destination, 往 a direction, and 离 a distance from a reference point.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I walk from the hotel to the station.”?
    1. 到下一个路口右转。
    2. 我从酒店走到车站。
    3. 我们从九点工作到五点。
    Show answer · 查看答案我从酒店走到车站。
    我从酒店走到车站。 · Wǒ cóng jiǔ diàn zǒu dào chēzhàn.
  3. In this lesson, what does “请往左走。” mean?
    1. This vehicle heads toward downtown.
    2. The station is close to here.
    3. Please walk left.
    Show answer · 查看答案Please walk left.
    Qǐng wǎng zuǒ zǒu. · Please walk left.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Is the airport far from here?”?
    1. 这里离机场远吗？
    2. 他从北京来。
    3. 我想从这里去医院。
    Show answer · 查看答案这里离机场远吗？
    这里离机场远吗？ · Zhè lǐ lí jī chǎng yuǎn ma?
  5. In this lesson, what does “我们从九点工作到五点。” mean?
    1. It’s close from here to the station.
    2. We work from nine to five.
    3. Turn right at the next intersection.
    Show answer · 查看答案We work from nine to five.
    Wǒ men cóng jiǔ diǎn gōng zuò dào wǔ diǎn. · We work from nine to five.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “This vehicle heads toward downtown.”?
    1. 车站离这里很近。
    2. 我从酒店走到车站。
    3. 这辆车开往市中心。
    Show answer · 查看答案这辆车开往市中心。
    这辆车开往市中心。 · Zhè liàng chē kāi wǎng shì zhōng xīn.
  7. In this lesson, what does “他从北京来。” mean?
    1. He comes from Beijing.
    2. I want to go from here to the hospital.
    3. Please walk left.
    Show answer · 查看答案He comes from Beijing.
    Tā cóng běi jīng lái. · He comes from Beijing.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Turn right at the next intersection.”?
    1. 这里离机场远吗？
    2. 到下一个路口右转。
    3. 从这里到车站很近。
    Show answer · 查看答案到下一个路口右转。
    到下一个路口右转。 · Dào xià yí ge lù kǒu yòu zhuǎn.
  9. In this lesson, what does “车站离这里很近。” mean?
    1. I walk from the hotel to the station.
    2. We work from nine to five.
    3. The station is close to here.
    Show answer · 查看答案The station is close to here.
    Chēzhàn lí zhè lǐ hěn jìn. · The station is close to here.
  10. Which pinyin reads “我想从这里去医院。”?
    1. Wǒ xiǎng cóng zhè lǐ qù yī yuàn.
    2. Qǐng wǎng zuǒ zǒu.
    3. Zhè liàng chē kāi wǎng shì zhōng xīn.
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ xiǎng cóng zhè lǐ qù yī yuàn.
    我想从这里去医院。 means “I want to go from here to the hospital.”
4. 以前、以后、的时候 — Before, after, when
X 以前 / 以后 / 的时候

Put 以前 or 以后 after the event or time it refers to. Put 的时候 after an event to mean “when.”

Notice: The referenced event comes first, unlike some English phrasing.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
吃饭以前请洗手。
Chīfàn yǐqián qǐng xǐ shǒu.
Please wash your hands before eating.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
下班以后我去买菜。
Xià bān yǐ hòu wǒ qù mǎi cài.
After work I go grocery shopping.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
你来的时候给我打电话。
Nǐ lái de shí hou gěi wǒ dǎ diàn huà.
Call me when you arrive.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
出门以前带上钥匙。
Chū mén yǐ qián dài shàng yào shi.
Take your keys before leaving.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
吃完以后请付钱。
Chī wán yǐ hòu qǐng fù qián.
Please pay after finishing your meal.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我小时候住在这里。
Wǒ xiǎoshíhou zhù zài zhè lǐ.
I lived here when I was little.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
五点以前我们得走。
Wǔ diǎn yǐ qián wǒ men děi zǒu.
We have to leave before five.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
到酒店以后再休息。
Dào jiǔ diàn yǐ hòu zài xiū xi.
Rest after arriving at the hotel.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
下雨的时候路很滑。
Xià yǔ de shí hou lù hěn huá.
The road is slippery when it rains.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
睡觉以前我会读书。
Shuì jiào yǐ qián wǒ huì dú shū.
I read before sleeping.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which phrase means “before eating”?
    1. 吃饭以前
    2. 以前吃饭
    3. 吃饭以后
    Show answer · 查看答案吃饭以前
    Put 以前 or 以后 after the event or time it refers to. Put 的时候 after an event to mean “when.”
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “After work I go grocery shopping.”?
    1. 到酒店以后再休息。
    2. 下班以后我去买菜。
    3. 吃完以后请付钱。
    Show answer · 查看答案下班以后我去买菜。
    下班以后我去买菜。 · Xià bān yǐ hòu wǒ qù mǎi cài.
  3. In this lesson, what does “你来的时候给我打电话。” mean?
    1. I lived here when I was little.
    2. The road is slippery when it rains.
    3. Call me when you arrive.
    Show answer · 查看答案Call me when you arrive.
    Nǐ lái de shí hou gěi wǒ dǎ diàn huà. · Call me when you arrive.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Take your keys before leaving.”?
    1. 出门以前带上钥匙。
    2. 五点以前我们得走。
    3. 睡觉以前我会读书。
    Show answer · 查看答案出门以前带上钥匙。
    出门以前带上钥匙。 · Chū mén yǐ qián dài shàng yào shi.
  5. In this lesson, what does “吃完以后请付钱。” mean?
    1. Please wash your hands before eating.
    2. Please pay after finishing your meal.
    3. Rest after arriving at the hotel.
    Show answer · 查看答案Please pay after finishing your meal.
    Chī wán yǐ hòu qǐng fù qián. · Please pay after finishing your meal.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “I lived here when I was little.”?
    1. 下雨的时候路很滑。
    2. 下班以后我去买菜。
    3. 我小时候住在这里。
    Show answer · 查看答案我小时候住在这里。
    我小时候住在这里。 · Wǒ xiǎoshíhou zhù zài zhè lǐ.
  7. In this lesson, what does “五点以前我们得走。” mean?
    1. We have to leave before five.
    2. I read before sleeping.
    3. Call me when you arrive.
    Show answer · 查看答案We have to leave before five.
    Wǔ diǎn yǐ qián wǒ men děi zǒu. · We have to leave before five.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Rest after arriving at the hotel.”?
    1. 出门以前带上钥匙。
    2. 到酒店以后再休息。
    3. 吃饭以前请洗手。
    Show answer · 查看答案到酒店以后再休息。
    到酒店以后再休息。 · Dào jiǔ diàn yǐ hòu zài xiū xi.
  9. In this lesson, what does “下雨的时候路很滑。” mean?
    1. After work I go grocery shopping.
    2. Please pay after finishing your meal.
    3. The road is slippery when it rains.
    Show answer · 查看答案The road is slippery when it rains.
    Xià yǔ de shí hou lù hěn huá. · The road is slippery when it rains.
  10. Which pinyin reads “睡觉以前我会读书。”?
    1. Shuì jiào yǐ qián wǒ huì dú shū.
    2. Nǐ lái de shí hou gěi wǒ dǎ diàn huà.
    3. Wǒ xiǎoshíhou zhù zài zhè lǐ.
    Show answer · 查看答案Shuì jiào yǐ qián wǒ huì dú shū.
    睡觉以前我会读书。 means “I read before sleeping.”
5. 先、再、然后 — First, then, later
先…再… / 然后

先 introduces the first action, 再 a later planned action; 然后 links steps in a narrative.

Notice: 再 often concerns a next or repeated action, not a past repetition.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
先买票，再上车。
Xiān mǎi piào, zài shàng chē.
Buy a ticket first, then board.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
先洗手，再吃饭。
Xiān xǐ shǒu, zài chī fàn.
Wash your hands first, then eat.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我们先去酒店，然后去吃饭。
Wǒ men xiān qù jiǔ diàn, rán hòu qù chī fàn.
We will go to the hotel first, then eat.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
你先说，我再说。
Nǐ xiān shuō, wǒ zài shuō.
You speak first, then I will speak.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
先看菜单，再点菜。
Xiān kàn cài dān, zài diǎn cài.
Look at the menu first, then order.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我先买票，然后等车。
Wǒ xiān mǎi piào, rán hòu děng chē.
I buy a ticket first, then wait.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
先喝水，再吃药。
Xiān hē shuǐ, zài chī yào.
Drink water first, then take the medicine.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
他先打电话，然后出门。
Tā xiān dǎ diàn huà, rán hòu chū mén.
He calls first, then leaves.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
我们先问路，再往前走。
Wǒ men xiān wèn lù, zài wǎng qián zǒu.
We ask for directions first, then continue.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
请先签名，然后付款。
Qǐng xiān qiānmíng, rán hòu fù kuǎn.
Please sign first, then pay.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which word points to the first step?
    1. 先
    2. 再
    3. 然后
    Show answer · 查看答案先
    先 introduces the first action, 再 a later planned action; 然后 links steps in a narrative.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Wash your hands first, then eat.”?
    1. 他先打电话，然后出门。
    2. 先洗手，再吃饭。
    3. 先看菜单，再点菜。
    Show answer · 查看答案先洗手，再吃饭。
    先洗手，再吃饭。 · Xiān xǐ shǒu, zài chī fàn.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我们先去酒店，然后去吃饭。” mean?
    1. I buy a ticket first, then wait.
    2. We ask for directions first, then continue.
    3. We will go to the hotel first, then eat.
    Show answer · 查看答案We will go to the hotel first, then eat.
    Wǒ men xiān qù jiǔ diàn, rán hòu qù chī fàn. · We will go to the hotel first, then eat.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “You speak first, then I will speak.”?
    1. 你先说，我再说。
    2. 先喝水，再吃药。
    3. 请先签名，然后付款。
    Show answer · 查看答案你先说，我再说。
    你先说，我再说。 · Nǐ xiān shuō, wǒ zài shuō.
  5. In this lesson, what does “先看菜单，再点菜。” mean?
    1. Buy a ticket first, then board.
    2. Look at the menu first, then order.
    3. He calls first, then leaves.
    Show answer · 查看答案Look at the menu first, then order.
    Xiān kàn cài dān, zài diǎn cài. · Look at the menu first, then order.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “I buy a ticket first, then wait.”?
    1. 我们先问路，再往前走。
    2. 先洗手，再吃饭。
    3. 我先买票，然后等车。
    Show answer · 查看答案我先买票，然后等车。
    我先买票，然后等车。 · Wǒ xiān mǎi piào, rán hòu děng chē.
  7. In this lesson, what does “先喝水，再吃药。” mean?
    1. Drink water first, then take the medicine.
    2. Please sign first, then pay.
    3. We will go to the hotel first, then eat.
    Show answer · 查看答案Drink water first, then take the medicine.
    Xiān hē shuǐ, zài chī yào. · Drink water first, then take the medicine.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “He calls first, then leaves.”?
    1. 你先说，我再说。
    2. 他先打电话，然后出门。
    3. 先买票，再上车。
    Show answer · 查看答案他先打电话，然后出门。
    他先打电话，然后出门。 · Tā xiān dǎ diàn huà, rán hòu chū mén.
  9. In this lesson, what does “我们先问路，再往前走。” mean?
    1. Wash your hands first, then eat.
    2. Look at the menu first, then order.
    3. We ask for directions first, then continue.
    Show answer · 查看答案We ask for directions first, then continue.
    Wǒ men xiān wèn lù, zài wǎng qián zǒu. · We ask for directions first, then continue.
  10. Which pinyin reads “请先签名，然后付款。”?
    1. Qǐng xiān qiānmíng, rán hòu fù kuǎn.
    2. Wǒ men xiān qù jiǔ diàn, rán hòu qù chī fàn.
    3. Wǒ xiān mǎi piào, rán hòu děng chē.
    Show answer · 查看答案Qǐng xiān qiānmíng, rán hòu fù kuǎn.
    请先签名，然后付款。 means “Please sign first, then pay.”
6. 里、上、下、旁边 — Inside, on, under, beside
place + 里 / 上 / 下 / 旁边

A location word follows its reference noun: 桌子上 is on the table, 房间里 is in the room.

Notice: These location words often follow 在 when they locate something.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
手机在桌子上。
Shǒujī zài zhuōzi shàng.
The phone is on the table.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
杯子在桌子上。
Bēi zi zài zhuō zi shàng.
The cup is on the table.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
鞋在床下。
Xié zài chuáng xià.
The shoes are under the bed.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
钱包在包里。
Qián bāo zài bāo lǐ.
The wallet is in the bag.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
酒店在车站旁边。
Jiǔ diàn zài chēzhàn páng biān.
The hotel is next to the station.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
银行在路对面。
Yín háng zài lù duì miàn.
The bank is across the street.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
名字在纸上。
Míng zi zài zhǐ shàng.
The name is on the paper.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
钥匙在门后面。
Yào shi zài mén hòu miàn.
The keys are behind the door.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
药在抽屉里。
Yào zài chōu ti lǐ.
The medicine is in the drawer.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我们在大楼外面等。
Wǒ men zài dà lóu wài miàn děng.
We wait outside the building.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which means “on the table”?
    1. 桌子上
    2. 上桌子
    3. 桌子在
    Show answer · 查看答案桌子上
    A location word follows its reference noun: 桌子上 is on the table, 房间里 is in the room.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “The cup is on the table.”?
    1. 钥匙在门后面。
    2. 杯子在桌子上。
    3. 酒店在车站旁边。
    Show answer · 查看答案杯子在桌子上。
    杯子在桌子上。 · Bēi zi zài zhuō zi shàng.
  3. In this lesson, what does “鞋在床下。” mean?
    1. The bank is across the street.
    2. The medicine is in the drawer.
    3. The shoes are under the bed.
    Show answer · 查看答案The shoes are under the bed.
    Xié zài chuáng xià. · The shoes are under the bed.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “The wallet is in the bag.”?
    1. 钱包在包里。
    2. 名字在纸上。
    3. 我们在大楼外面等。
    Show answer · 查看答案钱包在包里。
    钱包在包里。 · Qián bāo zài bāo lǐ.
  5. In this lesson, what does “酒店在车站旁边。” mean?
    1. The phone is on the table.
    2. The hotel is next to the station.
    3. The keys are behind the door.
    Show answer · 查看答案The hotel is next to the station.
    Jiǔ diàn zài chēzhàn páng biān. · The hotel is next to the station.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The bank is across the street.”?
    1. 药在抽屉里。
    2. 杯子在桌子上。
    3. 银行在路对面。
    Show answer · 查看答案银行在路对面。
    银行在路对面。 · Yín háng zài lù duì miàn.
  7. In this lesson, what does “名字在纸上。” mean?
    1. The name is on the paper.
    2. We wait outside the building.
    3. The shoes are under the bed.
    Show answer · 查看答案The name is on the paper.
    Míng zi zài zhǐ shàng. · The name is on the paper.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The keys are behind the door.”?
    1. 钱包在包里。
    2. 钥匙在门后面。
    3. 手机在桌子上。
    Show answer · 查看答案钥匙在门后面。
    钥匙在门后面。 · Yào shi zài mén hòu miàn.
  9. In this lesson, what does “药在抽屉里。” mean?
    1. The cup is on the table.
    2. The hotel is next to the station.
    3. The medicine is in the drawer.
    Show answer · 查看答案The medicine is in the drawer.
    Yào zài chōu ti lǐ. · The medicine is in the drawer.
  10. Which pinyin reads “我们在大楼外面等。”?
    1. Wǒ men zài dà lóu wài miàn děng.
    2. Xié zài chuáng xià.
    3. Yín háng zài lù duì miàn.
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ men zài dà lóu wài miàn děng.
    我们在大楼外面等。 means “We wait outside the building.”
MODULE 05

动作状态与变化 — Aspect & change

Describe whether an event is completed, experienced, or ongoing.

1. 动词后的“了”：动作完成 — Completed events with verb le
verb + 了 (+ object)

A 了 after the verb often presents an event as completed or bounded. It does not simply equal English past tense.

Notice: If a verb has a quantified object, 了 may follow the verb; context matters.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我买了一张车票。
Wǒ mǎi le yì zhāng chēpiào.
I bought a ticket.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我吃了早饭。
Wǒ chī le zǎo fàn.
I ate breakfast.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
她买了一件外套。
Tā mǎi le yí jiàn wài tào.
She bought a coat.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
我们看了那部电影。
Wǒ men kàn le nà bù diàn yǐng.
We watched that movie.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
他写了三个字。
Tā xiě le sān ge zì.
He wrote three characters.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
他们到了酒店。
Tā men dào le jiǔ diàn.
They arrived at the hotel.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我喝了一杯水。
Wǒ hē le yì bēi shuǐ.
I drank a glass of water.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
老师说了一个故事。
Lǎo shī shuō le yí ge gù shi.
The teacher told a story.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
孩子关上了门。
Hái zi guān shàng le mén.
The child closed the door.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
你找到钥匙了吗？
Nǐ zhǎo dào yào shi le ma?
Did you find the keys?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 了 after 买 present?
    1. future tense
    2. plural tickets
    3. a bounded purchase
    Show answer · 查看答案a bounded purchase
    A 了 after the verb often presents an event as completed or bounded. It does not simply equal English past tense.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I ate breakfast.”?
    1. 我吃了早饭。
    2. 他写了三个字。
    3. 老师说了一个故事。
    Show answer · 查看答案我吃了早饭。
    我吃了早饭。 · Wǒ chī le zǎo fàn.
  3. In this lesson, what does “她买了一件外套。” mean?
    1. The child closed the door.
    2. She bought a coat.
    3. They arrived at the hotel.
    Show answer · 查看答案She bought a coat.
    Tā mǎi le yí jiàn wài tào. · She bought a coat.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “We watched that movie.”?
    1. 我喝了一杯水。
    2. 你找到钥匙了吗？
    3. 我们看了那部电影。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们看了那部电影。
    我们看了那部电影。 · Wǒ men kàn le nà bù diàn yǐng.
  5. In this lesson, what does “他写了三个字。” mean?
    1. He wrote three characters.
    2. The teacher told a story.
    3. I bought a ticket.
    Show answer · 查看答案He wrote three characters.
    Tā xiě le sān ge zì. · He wrote three characters.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “They arrived at the hotel.”?
    1. 我吃了早饭。
    2. 他们到了酒店。
    3. 孩子关上了门。
    Show answer · 查看答案他们到了酒店。
    他们到了酒店。 · Tā men dào le jiǔ diàn.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我喝了一杯水。” mean?
    1. Did you find the keys?
    2. She bought a coat.
    3. I drank a glass of water.
    Show answer · 查看答案I drank a glass of water.
    Wǒ hē le yì bēi shuǐ. · I drank a glass of water.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The teacher told a story.”?
    1. 老师说了一个故事。
    2. 我买了一张车票。
    3. 我们看了那部电影。
    Show answer · 查看答案老师说了一个故事。
    老师说了一个故事。 · Lǎo shī shuō le yí ge gù shi.
  9. In this lesson, what does “孩子关上了门。” mean?
    1. He wrote three characters.
    2. The child closed the door.
    3. I ate breakfast.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child closed the door.
    Hái zi guān shàng le mén. · The child closed the door.
  10. Which pinyin reads “你找到钥匙了吗？”?
    1. Tā mǎi le yí jiàn wài tào.
    2. Tā men dào le jiǔ diàn.
    3. Nǐ zhǎo dào yào shi le ma?
    Show answer · 查看答案Nǐ zhǎo dào yào shi le ma?
    你找到钥匙了吗？ means “Did you find the keys?”
2. 句末的“了”：情况变化 — A new situation with final le
sentence + 了

Sentence-final 了 signals that a situation has changed or is now relevant. It can occur with present or future context.

Notice: The two 了 positions have related but different jobs.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
下雨了。
Xià yǔ le.
It has started raining.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
天黑了。
Tiān hēi le.
It has gotten dark.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
孩子睡了。
Hái zi shuì le.
The child has gone to sleep.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
我不饿了。
Wǒ bú è le.
I am not hungry anymore.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
现在下雪了。
Xiàn zài xià xuě le.
It has started snowing now.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
车来了！
Chē lái le!
The vehicle has arrived!
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我们有时间了。
Wǒ men yǒu shí jiān le.
We have time now.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
手机没电了。
Shǒu jī méi diàn le.
The phone has run out of power.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
他会说中文了。
Tā huì shuō zhōng wén le.
He can speak Chinese now.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我要走了。
Wǒ yào zǒu le.
I am about to leave.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What is the point of final 了 here?
    1. rain is plural
    2. the verb is a noun
    3. a change has occurred
    Show answer · 查看答案a change has occurred
    Sentence-final 了 signals that a situation has changed or is now relevant. It can occur with present or future context.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “It has gotten dark.”?
    1. 天黑了。
    2. 现在下雪了。
    3. 手机没电了。
    Show answer · 查看答案天黑了。
    天黑了。 · Tiān hēi le.
  3. In this lesson, what does “孩子睡了。” mean?
    1. He can speak Chinese now.
    2. The child has gone to sleep.
    3. The vehicle has arrived!
    Show answer · 查看答案The child has gone to sleep.
    Hái zi shuì le. · The child has gone to sleep.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “I am not hungry anymore.”?
    1. 我们有时间了。
    2. 我要走了。
    3. 我不饿了。
    Show answer · 查看答案我不饿了。
    我不饿了。 · Wǒ bú è le.
  5. In this lesson, what does “现在下雪了。” mean?
    1. It has started snowing now.
    2. The phone has run out of power.
    3. It has started raining.
    Show answer · 查看答案It has started snowing now.
    Xiàn zài xià xuě le. · It has started snowing now.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The vehicle has arrived!”?
    1. 天黑了。
    2. 车来了！
    3. 他会说中文了。
    Show answer · 查看答案车来了！
    车来了！ · Chē lái le!
  7. In this lesson, what does “我们有时间了。” mean?
    1. I am about to leave.
    2. The child has gone to sleep.
    3. We have time now.
    Show answer · 查看答案We have time now.
    Wǒ men yǒu shí jiān le. · We have time now.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The phone has run out of power.”?
    1. 手机没电了。
    2. 下雨了。
    3. 我不饿了。
    Show answer · 查看答案手机没电了。
    手机没电了。 · Shǒu jī méi diàn le.
  9. In this lesson, what does “他会说中文了。” mean?
    1. It has started snowing now.
    2. He can speak Chinese now.
    3. It has gotten dark.
    Show answer · 查看答案He can speak Chinese now.
    Tā huì shuō zhōng wén le. · He can speak Chinese now.
  10. Which pinyin reads “我要走了。”?
    1. Hái zi shuì le.
    2. Chē lái le!
    3. Wǒ yào zǒu le.
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ yào zǒu le.
    我要走了。 means “I am about to leave.”
3. 用“过”说经历 — Experience with guo (“have ever”)
verb + 过

过 says someone has had an experience at least once. It does not specify a particular completed event by itself.

Notice: The negative is 没(有) + verb + 过.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我去过上海。
Wǒ qù guo Shànghǎi.
I have been to Shanghai.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
你吃过这个菜吗？
Nǐ chī guo zhè ge cài ma?
Have you ever eaten this dish?
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我没去过北京。
Wǒ méi qù guo běi jīng.
I have never been to Beijing.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
他看过这部电影。
Tā kàn guo zhè bù diàn yǐng.
He has seen this movie before.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我们坐过这趟车。
Wǒ men zuò guo zhè tàng chē.
We have ridden this route before.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
她学过法语。
Tā xué guo Fǎyǔ.
She has studied French before.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我以前住过这里。
Wǒ yǐ qián zhù guo zhè lǐ.
I have lived here before.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
你见过那位老师吗？
Nǐ jiàn guo nà wèi lǎo shī ma?
Have you met that teacher?
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
孩子没有坐过飞机。
Hái zi méi yǒu zuò guo fēi jī.
The child has never flown.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我听过这首歌。
Wǒ tīng guo zhè shǒu gē.
I have heard this song.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 去过 mainly tell you?
    1. I am going now
    2. I go every day
    3. I have had that experience
    Show answer · 查看答案I have had that experience
    过 says someone has had an experience at least once. It does not specify a particular completed event by itself.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Have you ever eaten this dish?”?
    1. 你吃过这个菜吗？
    2. 我们坐过这趟车。
    3. 你见过那位老师吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案你吃过这个菜吗？
    你吃过这个菜吗？ · Nǐ chī guo zhè ge cài ma?
  3. In this lesson, what does “我没去过北京。” mean?
    1. The child has never flown.
    2. I have never been to Beijing.
    3. She has studied French before.
    Show answer · 查看答案I have never been to Beijing.
    Wǒ méi qù guo běi jīng. · I have never been to Beijing.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “He has seen this movie before.”?
    1. 我以前住过这里。
    2. 我听过这首歌。
    3. 他看过这部电影。
    Show answer · 查看答案他看过这部电影。
    他看过这部电影。 · Tā kàn guo zhè bù diàn yǐng.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我们坐过这趟车。” mean?
    1. We have ridden this route before.
    2. Have you met that teacher?
    3. I have been to Shanghai.
    Show answer · 查看答案We have ridden this route before.
    Wǒ men zuò guo zhè tàng chē. · We have ridden this route before.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “She has studied French before.”?
    1. 你吃过这个菜吗？
    2. 她学过法语。
    3. 孩子没有坐过飞机。
    Show answer · 查看答案她学过法语。
    她学过法语。 · Tā xué guo Fǎyǔ.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我以前住过这里。” mean?
    1. I have heard this song.
    2. I have never been to Beijing.
    3. I have lived here before.
    Show answer · 查看答案I have lived here before.
    Wǒ yǐ qián zhù guo zhè lǐ. · I have lived here before.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Have you met that teacher?”?
    1. 你见过那位老师吗？
    2. 我去过上海。
    3. 他看过这部电影。
    Show answer · 查看答案你见过那位老师吗？
    你见过那位老师吗？ · Nǐ jiàn guo nà wèi lǎo shī ma?
  9. In this lesson, what does “孩子没有坐过飞机。” mean?
    1. We have ridden this route before.
    2. The child has never flown.
    3. Have you ever eaten this dish?
    Show answer · 查看答案The child has never flown.
    Hái zi méi yǒu zuò guo fēi jī. · The child has never flown.
  10. Which pinyin reads “我听过这首歌。”?
    1. Wǒ méi qù guo běi jīng.
    2. Tā xué guo Fǎyǔ.
    3. Wǒ tīng guo zhè shǒu gē.
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ tīng guo zhè shǒu gē.
    我听过这首歌。 means “I have heard this song.”
4. 用“着”说持续状态 — Continuing state with zhe
verb + 着

着 describes a state that continues, often the result of an action, such as a door standing open.

Notice: Do not assume it is interchangeable with 正在, which tracks an action in progress.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
门开着。
Mén kāi zhe.
The door is open.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
窗户开着。
Chuāng hu kāi zhe.
The window is open.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
灯亮着。
Dēng liàng zhe.
The light is on.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
他穿着蓝色外套。
Tā chuān zhe lánsè wài tào.
He is wearing a blue coat.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
墙上挂着一张地图。
Qiáng shàng guà zhe yì zhāng dì tú.
A map is hanging on the wall.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
桌上放着两本书。
Zhuō shàng fàng zhe liǎng běn shū.
Two books are lying on the table.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
她笑着说话。
Tā xiào zhe shuō huà.
She speaks with a smile.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
门关着。
Mén guān zhe.
The door is closed.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
外面站着一个人。
Wài miàn zhàn zhe yí ge rén.
Someone is standing outside.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
孩子抱着一只猫。
Hái zi bào zhe yì zhī māo.
The child is holding a cat.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 着 highlight?
    1. a numbered door
    2. a past experience
    3. a continuing state
    Show answer · 查看答案a continuing state
    着 describes a state that continues, often the result of an action, such as a door standing open.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “The window is open.”?
    1. 窗户开着。
    2. 墙上挂着一张地图。
    3. 门关着。
    Show answer · 查看答案窗户开着。
    窗户开着。 · Chuāng hu kāi zhe.
  3. In this lesson, what does “灯亮着。” mean?
    1. Someone is standing outside.
    2. The light is on.
    3. Two books are lying on the table.
    Show answer · 查看答案The light is on.
    Dēng liàng zhe. · The light is on.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “He is wearing a blue coat.”?
    1. 她笑着说话。
    2. 孩子抱着一只猫。
    3. 他穿着蓝色外套。
    Show answer · 查看答案他穿着蓝色外套。
    他穿着蓝色外套。 · Tā chuān zhe lánsè wài tào.
  5. In this lesson, what does “墙上挂着一张地图。” mean?
    1. A map is hanging on the wall.
    2. The door is closed.
    3. The door is open.
    Show answer · 查看答案A map is hanging on the wall.
    Qiáng shàng guà zhe yì zhāng dì tú. · A map is hanging on the wall.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Two books are lying on the table.”?
    1. 窗户开着。
    2. 桌上放着两本书。
    3. 外面站着一个人。
    Show answer · 查看答案桌上放着两本书。
    桌上放着两本书。 · Zhuō shàng fàng zhe liǎng běn shū.
  7. In this lesson, what does “她笑着说话。” mean?
    1. The child is holding a cat.
    2. The light is on.
    3. She speaks with a smile.
    Show answer · 查看答案She speaks with a smile.
    Tā xiào zhe shuō huà. · She speaks with a smile.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The door is closed.”?
    1. 门关着。
    2. 门开着。
    3. 他穿着蓝色外套。
    Show answer · 查看答案门关着。
    门关着。 · Mén guān zhe.
  9. In this lesson, what does “外面站着一个人。” mean?
    1. A map is hanging on the wall.
    2. Someone is standing outside.
    3. The window is open.
    Show answer · 查看答案Someone is standing outside.
    Wài miàn zhàn zhe yí ge rén. · Someone is standing outside.
  10. Which pinyin reads “孩子抱着一只猫。”?
    1. Dēng liàng zhe.
    2. Zhuō shàng fàng zhe liǎng běn shū.
    3. Hái zi bào zhe yì zhī māo.
    Show answer · 查看答案Hái zi bào zhe yì zhī māo.
    孩子抱着一只猫。 means “The child is holding a cat.”
5. 正在进行的动作 — Action in progress
在 / 正在 + verb

Put 在 or 正在 before a verb to say an action is underway. 呢 may appear at the end.

Notice: Do not confuse this 在 with the locative 在 before a place.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
他正在做饭。
Tā zhèngzài zuò fàn.
He is cooking right now.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我在等车。
Wǒ zài děng chē.
I am waiting for the vehicle.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
孩子正在睡觉。
Hái zi zhèng zài shuì jiào.
The child is sleeping.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
她在跟朋友说话呢。
Tā zài gēn péng you shuō huà ne.
She is talking with a friend.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我们正在吃晚饭。
Wǒ men zhèng zài chī wǎn fàn.
We are eating dinner.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
外面正在下雨。
Wài miàn zhèng zài xià yǔ.
It is raining outside right now.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
他们在修路。
Tā men zài xiū lù.
They are repairing the road.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
你在看什么？
Nǐ zài kàn shén me?
What are you watching?
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
老师正在解释这个字。
Lǎo shī zhèng zài jiě shì zhè ge zì.
The teacher is explaining this character.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
他在打电话呢。
Tā zài dǎ diàn huà ne.
He is on the phone.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What is he doing?
    1. planning to cook tomorrow
    2. having cooked once
    3. cooking now
    Show answer · 查看答案cooking now
    Put 在 or 正在 before a verb to say an action is underway. 呢 may appear at the end.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I am waiting for the vehicle.”?
    1. 我在等车。
    2. 我们正在吃晚饭。
    3. 你在看什么？
    Show answer · 查看答案我在等车。
    我在等车。 · Wǒ zài děng chē.
  3. In this lesson, what does “孩子正在睡觉。” mean?
    1. The teacher is explaining this character.
    2. The child is sleeping.
    3. It is raining outside right now.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child is sleeping.
    Hái zi zhèng zài shuì jiào. · The child is sleeping.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “She is talking with a friend.”?
    1. 他们在修路。
    2. 他在打电话呢。
    3. 她在跟朋友说话呢。
    Show answer · 查看答案她在跟朋友说话呢。
    她在跟朋友说话呢。 · Tā zài gēn péng you shuō huà ne.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我们正在吃晚饭。” mean?
    1. We are eating dinner.
    2. What are you watching?
    3. He is cooking right now.
    Show answer · 查看答案We are eating dinner.
    Wǒ men zhèng zài chī wǎn fàn. · We are eating dinner.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “It is raining outside right now.”?
    1. 我在等车。
    2. 外面正在下雨。
    3. 老师正在解释这个字。
    Show answer · 查看答案外面正在下雨。
    外面正在下雨。 · Wài miàn zhèng zài xià yǔ.
  7. In this lesson, what does “他们在修路。” mean?
    1. He is on the phone.
    2. The child is sleeping.
    3. They are repairing the road.
    Show answer · 查看答案They are repairing the road.
    Tā men zài xiū lù. · They are repairing the road.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “What are you watching?”?
    1. 你在看什么？
    2. 他正在做饭。
    3. 她在跟朋友说话呢。
    Show answer · 查看答案你在看什么？
    你在看什么？ · Nǐ zài kàn shén me?
  9. In this lesson, what does “老师正在解释这个字。” mean?
    1. We are eating dinner.
    2. The teacher is explaining this character.
    3. I am waiting for the vehicle.
    Show answer · 查看答案The teacher is explaining this character.
    Lǎo shī zhèng zài jiě shì zhè ge zì. · The teacher is explaining this character.
  10. Which pinyin reads “他在打电话呢。”?
    1. Hái zi zhèng zài shuì jiào.
    2. Wài miàn zhèng zài xià yǔ.
    3. Tā zài dǎ diàn huà ne.
    Show answer · 查看答案Tā zài dǎ diàn huà ne.
    他在打电话呢。 means “He is on the phone.”
6. 否定句中的动作状态 — Aspect in negative sentences
没 + verb / 没 + verb + 过

For a past action that did not happen, use 没(有); completed 了 usually drops. For no experience, use 没(有)…过.

Notice: 不 may negate a present habit or a decision rather than report a missing past event.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我没吃早饭。
Wǒ méi chī zǎofàn.
I didn’t eat breakfast.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
她昨天没上班。
Tā zuó tiān méi shàng bān.
She did not work yesterday.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我还没有买票。
Wǒ hái méi yǒu mǎi piào.
I have not bought a ticket yet.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
他们没看过这部电影。
Tā men méi kàn guo zhè bù diàn yǐng.
They have never seen this movie.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我们没有找到地址。
Wǒ men méi yǒu zhǎo dào dì zhǐ.
We did not find the address.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
他没喝那杯茶。
Tā méi hē nà bēi chá.
He did not drink that tea.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我从来没有坐过飞机。
Wǒ cóng lái méi yǒu zuò guo fēi jī.
I have never flown.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
你昨天没睡好吗？
Nǐ zuó tiān méi shuì hǎo ma?
Did you sleep badly yesterday?
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
孩子还没起床。
Hái zi hái méi qǐ chuáng.
The child has not gotten up yet.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
这家店今天没开门。
Zhè jiā diàn jīn tiān méi kāi mén.
This shop did not open today.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which reports a past action did not occur?
    1. 不吃了
    2. 吃过
    3. 没吃
    Show answer · 查看答案没吃
    For a past action that did not happen, use 没(有); completed 了 usually drops. For no experience, use 没(有)…过.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “She did not work yesterday.”?
    1. 她昨天没上班。
    2. 我们没有找到地址。
    3. 你昨天没睡好吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案她昨天没上班。
    她昨天没上班。 · Tā zuó tiān méi shàng bān.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我还没有买票。” mean?
    1. The child has not gotten up yet.
    2. I have not bought a ticket yet.
    3. He did not drink that tea.
    Show answer · 查看答案I have not bought a ticket yet.
    Wǒ hái méi yǒu mǎi piào. · I have not bought a ticket yet.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “They have never seen this movie.”?
    1. 我从来没有坐过飞机。
    2. 这家店今天没开门。
    3. 他们没看过这部电影。
    Show answer · 查看答案他们没看过这部电影。
    他们没看过这部电影。 · Tā men méi kàn guo zhè bù diàn yǐng.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我们没有找到地址。” mean?
    1. We did not find the address.
    2. Did you sleep badly yesterday?
    3. I didn’t eat breakfast.
    Show answer · 查看答案We did not find the address.
    Wǒ men méi yǒu zhǎo dào dì zhǐ. · We did not find the address.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “He did not drink that tea.”?
    1. 她昨天没上班。
    2. 他没喝那杯茶。
    3. 孩子还没起床。
    Show answer · 查看答案他没喝那杯茶。
    他没喝那杯茶。 · Tā méi hē nà bēi chá.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我从来没有坐过飞机。” mean?
    1. This shop did not open today.
    2. I have not bought a ticket yet.
    3. I have never flown.
    Show answer · 查看答案I have never flown.
    Wǒ cóng lái méi yǒu zuò guo fēi jī. · I have never flown.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Did you sleep badly yesterday?”?
    1. 你昨天没睡好吗？
    2. 我没吃早饭。
    3. 他们没看过这部电影。
    Show answer · 查看答案你昨天没睡好吗？
    你昨天没睡好吗？ · Nǐ zuó tiān méi shuì hǎo ma?
  9. In this lesson, what does “孩子还没起床。” mean?
    1. We did not find the address.
    2. The child has not gotten up yet.
    3. She did not work yesterday.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child has not gotten up yet.
    Hái zi hái méi qǐ chuáng. · The child has not gotten up yet.
  10. Which pinyin reads “这家店今天没开门。”?
    1. Wǒ hái méi yǒu mǎi piào.
    2. Tā méi hē nà bēi chá.
    3. Zhè jiā diàn jīn tiān méi kāi mén.
    Show answer · 查看答案Zhè jiā diàn jīn tiān méi kāi mén.
    这家店今天没开门。 means “This shop did not open today.”
MODULE 06

补语 — Complements

Say what happened after an action, how well it went, and for how long.

1. 结果补语 — Result complements
verb + result

A result word follows the verb: 看懂 means understand by reading or watching, 找到 means find, and 做完 means finish.

Notice: The result is part of the predicate, not a separate English-style clause.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我听懂了。
Wǒ tīng dǒng le.
I understood what I heard.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我找到手机了。
Wǒ zhǎo dào shǒu jī le.
I found my phone.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
她看懂了菜单。
Tā kàn dǒng le cài dān.
She understood the menu.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
请写清楚地址。
Qǐng xiě qīng chu dì zhǐ.
Please write the address clearly.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
他吃完了米饭。
Tā chī wán le mǐ fàn.
He finished the rice.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我们听见了音乐。
Wǒ men tīng jiàn le yīn yuè.
We heard music.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
孩子学会了游泳。
Hái zi xué huì le yóu yǒng.
The child learned to swim.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
你准备好了吗？
Nǐ zhǔn bèi hǎo le ma?
Are you ready?
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
我记住了名字。
Wǒ jì zhù le míng zi.
I remembered the name.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
他们走错了路。
Tā men zǒu cuò le lù.
They took the wrong road.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 懂 add to 听?
    1. a future plan
    2. the result of understanding
    3. the location
    Show answer · 查看答案the result of understanding
    A result word follows the verb: 看懂 means understand by reading or watching, 找到 means find, and 做完 means finish.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I found my phone.”?
    1. 他吃完了米饭。
    2. 你准备好了吗？
    3. 我找到手机了。
    Show answer · 查看答案我找到手机了。
    我找到手机了。 · Wǒ zhǎo dào shǒu jī le.
  3. In this lesson, what does “她看懂了菜单。” mean?
    1. She understood the menu.
    2. We heard music.
    3. I remembered the name.
    Show answer · 查看答案She understood the menu.
    Tā kàn dǒng le cài dān. · She understood the menu.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please write the address clearly.”?
    1. 他们走错了路。
    2. 请写清楚地址。
    3. 孩子学会了游泳。
    Show answer · 查看答案请写清楚地址。
    请写清楚地址。 · Qǐng xiě qīng chu dì zhǐ.
  5. In this lesson, what does “他吃完了米饭。” mean?
    1. Are you ready?
    2. I understood what I heard.
    3. He finished the rice.
    Show answer · 查看答案He finished the rice.
    Tā chī wán le mǐ fàn. · He finished the rice.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “We heard music.”?
    1. 我们听见了音乐。
    2. 我记住了名字。
    3. 我找到手机了。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们听见了音乐。
    我们听见了音乐。 · Wǒ men tīng jiàn le yīn yuè.
  7. In this lesson, what does “孩子学会了游泳。” mean?
    1. She understood the menu.
    2. The child learned to swim.
    3. They took the wrong road.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child learned to swim.
    Hái zi xué huì le yóu yǒng. · The child learned to swim.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Are you ready?”?
    1. 我听懂了。
    2. 请写清楚地址。
    3. 你准备好了吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案你准备好了吗？
    你准备好了吗？ · Nǐ zhǔn bèi hǎo le ma?
  9. In this lesson, what does “我记住了名字。” mean?
    1. I remembered the name.
    2. I found my phone.
    3. He finished the rice.
    Show answer · 查看答案I remembered the name.
    Wǒ jì zhù le míng zi. · I remembered the name.
  10. Which pinyin reads “他们走错了路。”?
    1. Wǒ men tīng jiàn le yīn yuè.
    2. Tā men zǒu cuò le lù.
    3. Tā kàn dǒng le cài dān.
    Show answer · 查看答案Tā men zǒu cuò le lù.
    他们走错了路。 means “They took the wrong road.”
2. 趋向补语 — Directional complements
verb + 来 / 去

来 moves toward the speaker or reference point; 去 moves away. Compounds like 进来 and 出去 add a path.

Notice: The reference point may be set by the story rather than the physical speaker.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
请进来。
Qǐng jìn lái.
Please come in.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
请走进来。
Qǐng zǒu jìn lái.
Please walk in.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
他跑出去了。
Tā pǎo chū qù le.
He ran out.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
把书拿过来。
Bǎ shū ná guo lái.
Bring the book over here.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
她走上楼去。
Tā zǒu shàng lóu qù.
She went upstairs.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
孩子跳下来了。
Hái zi tiào xià lái le.
The child jumped down toward us.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
把箱子搬进去。
Bǎ xiāngzi bān jìn qù.
Move the suitcase inside.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我们开车回来了。
Wǒ men kāi chē huí lái le.
We drove back here.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
请坐下来。
Qǐng zuò xià lái.
Please sit down.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
他拿起了电话。
Tā ná qǐ le diàn huà.
He picked up the phone.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 来 contribute?
    1. plurality
    2. movement toward the reference point
    3. past tense
    Show answer · 查看答案movement toward the reference point
    来 moves toward the speaker or reference point; 去 moves away. Compounds like 进来 and 出去 add a path.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please walk in.”?
    1. 她走上楼去。
    2. 我们开车回来了。
    3. 请走进来。
    Show answer · 查看答案请走进来。
    请走进来。 · Qǐng zǒu jìn lái.
  3. In this lesson, what does “他跑出去了。” mean?
    1. He ran out.
    2. The child jumped down toward us.
    3. Please sit down.
    Show answer · 查看答案He ran out.
    Tā pǎo chū qù le. · He ran out.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Bring the book over here.”?
    1. 他拿起了电话。
    2. 把书拿过来。
    3. 把箱子搬进去。
    Show answer · 查看答案把书拿过来。
    把书拿过来。 · Bǎ shū ná guo lái.
  5. In this lesson, what does “她走上楼去。” mean?
    1. We drove back here.
    2. Please come in.
    3. She went upstairs.
    Show answer · 查看答案She went upstairs.
    Tā zǒu shàng lóu qù. · She went upstairs.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The child jumped down toward us.”?
    1. 孩子跳下来了。
    2. 请坐下来。
    3. 请走进来。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子跳下来了。
    孩子跳下来了。 · Hái zi tiào xià lái le.
  7. In this lesson, what does “把箱子搬进去。” mean?
    1. He ran out.
    2. Move the suitcase inside.
    3. He picked up the phone.
    Show answer · 查看答案Move the suitcase inside.
    Bǎ xiāngzi bān jìn qù. · Move the suitcase inside.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “We drove back here.”?
    1. 请进来。
    2. 把书拿过来。
    3. 我们开车回来了。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们开车回来了。
    我们开车回来了。 · Wǒ men kāi chē huí lái le.
  9. In this lesson, what does “请坐下来。” mean?
    1. Please sit down.
    2. Please walk in.
    3. She went upstairs.
    Show answer · 查看答案Please sit down.
    Qǐng zuò xià lái. · Please sit down.
  10. Which pinyin reads “他拿起了电话。”?
    1. Hái zi tiào xià lái le.
    2. Tā ná qǐ le diàn huà.
    3. Tā pǎo chū qù le.
    Show answer · 查看答案Tā ná qǐ le diàn huà.
    他拿起了电话。 means “He picked up the phone.”
3. 可能补语 — Potential complements
verb + 得 / 不 + result

Put 得 or 不 between the verb and its result to express whether the result is possible.

Notice: 看得懂 means can understand by reading; 看不懂 means cannot.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
这个字我看不懂。
Zhège zì wǒ kàn bu dǒng.
I can’t understand this character.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我听得懂他说的话。
Wǒ tīng de dǒng tā shuō de huà.
I can understand what he says.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
这道题我做不完。
Zhè dào tí wǒ zuò bu wán.
I cannot finish this problem.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
这个门打得开吗？
Zhè ge mén dǎ de kāi ma?
Can this door be opened?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
孩子够不着架子。
Hái zi gòu bù zhe jiàzi.
The child cannot reach the shelf.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
你看得清楚吗？
Nǐ kàn de qīng chu ma?
Can you see clearly?
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我找不到钥匙。
Wǒ zhǎo bu dào yào shi.
I cannot find the keys.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
这么多饭我吃不下。
Zhè me duō fàn wǒ chī bu xià.
I cannot eat this much food.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
这张床放得下吗？
Zhè zhāng chuáng fàng de xià ma?
Will this bed fit?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我们赶得上火车。
Wǒ men gǎn de shàng huǒ chē.
We can catch the train in time.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 看不懂 mean?
    1. not allowed to look
    2. unable to understand by looking
    3. did not look yesterday
    Show answer · 查看答案unable to understand by looking
    Put 得 or 不 between the verb and its result to express whether the result is possible.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I can understand what he says.”?
    1. 孩子够不着架子。
    2. 这么多饭我吃不下。
    3. 我听得懂他说的话。
    Show answer · 查看答案我听得懂他说的话。
    我听得懂他说的话。 · Wǒ tīng de dǒng tā shuō de huà.
  3. In this lesson, what does “这道题我做不完。” mean?
    1. I cannot finish this problem.
    2. Can you see clearly?
    3. Will this bed fit?
    Show answer · 查看答案I cannot finish this problem.
    Zhè dào tí wǒ zuò bu wán. · I cannot finish this problem.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Can this door be opened?”?
    1. 我们赶得上火车。
    2. 这个门打得开吗？
    3. 我找不到钥匙。
    Show answer · 查看答案这个门打得开吗？
    这个门打得开吗？ · Zhè ge mén dǎ de kāi ma?
  5. In this lesson, what does “孩子够不着架子。” mean?
    1. I cannot eat this much food.
    2. I can’t understand this character.
    3. The child cannot reach the shelf.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child cannot reach the shelf.
    Hái zi gòu bù zhe jiàzi. · The child cannot reach the shelf.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Can you see clearly?”?
    1. 你看得清楚吗？
    2. 这张床放得下吗？
    3. 我听得懂他说的话。
    Show answer · 查看答案你看得清楚吗？
    你看得清楚吗？ · Nǐ kàn de qīng chu ma?
  7. In this lesson, what does “我找不到钥匙。” mean?
    1. I cannot finish this problem.
    2. I cannot find the keys.
    3. We can catch the train in time.
    Show answer · 查看答案I cannot find the keys.
    Wǒ zhǎo bu dào yào shi. · I cannot find the keys.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “I cannot eat this much food.”?
    1. 这个字我看不懂。
    2. 这个门打得开吗？
    3. 这么多饭我吃不下。
    Show answer · 查看答案这么多饭我吃不下。
    这么多饭我吃不下。 · Zhè me duō fàn wǒ chī bu xià.
  9. In this lesson, what does “这张床放得下吗？” mean?
    1. Will this bed fit?
    2. I can understand what he says.
    3. The child cannot reach the shelf.
    Show answer · 查看答案Will this bed fit?
    Zhè zhāng chuáng fàng de xià ma? · Will this bed fit?
  10. Which pinyin reads “我们赶得上火车。”?
    1. Nǐ kàn de qīng chu ma?
    2. Wǒ men gǎn de shàng huǒ chē.
    3. Zhè dào tí wǒ zuò bu wán.
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ men gǎn de shàng huǒ chē.
    我们赶得上火车。 means “We can catch the train in time.”
4. 程度补语 — Degree complements
verb + 得 + description

得 after a verb introduces how the action is performed or evaluated.

Notice: Keep this 得 distinct from the pre-noun 的 and pre-verb 地.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
她说得很清楚。
Tā shuō de hěn qīngchu.
She speaks very clearly.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
你中文说得很好。
Nǐ zhōng wén shuō de hěn hǎo.
You speak Chinese very well.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
他走得很慢。
Tā zǒu de hěn màn.
He walks slowly.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
孩子睡得很香。
Hái zi shuì de hěn xiāng.
The child sleeps soundly.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
这辆车开得太快。
Zhè liàng chē kāi de tài kuài.
This vehicle goes too fast.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
她唱得很轻。
Tā chàng de hěn qīng.
She sings softly.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我听得很清楚。
Wǒ tīng de hěn qīng chu.
I can hear very clearly.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
老师解释得很简单。
Lǎo shī jiě shì de hěn jiǎn dān.
The teacher explains things simply.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
他们准备得很充分。
Tā men zhǔn bèi de hěn chōng fèn.
They prepared thoroughly.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
你写得比我快。
Nǐ xiě de bǐ wǒ kuài.
You write faster than I do.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What follows 得 here?
    1. the speaker’s name
    2. a description of how she speaks
    3. a classifier
    Show answer · 查看答案a description of how she speaks
    得 after a verb introduces how the action is performed or evaluated.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “You speak Chinese very well.”?
    1. 这辆车开得太快。
    2. 老师解释得很简单。
    3. 你中文说得很好。
    Show answer · 查看答案你中文说得很好。
    你中文说得很好。 · Nǐ zhōng wén shuō de hěn hǎo.
  3. In this lesson, what does “他走得很慢。” mean?
    1. He walks slowly.
    2. She sings softly.
    3. They prepared thoroughly.
    Show answer · 查看答案He walks slowly.
    Tā zǒu de hěn màn. · He walks slowly.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “The child sleeps soundly.”?
    1. 你写得比我快。
    2. 孩子睡得很香。
    3. 我听得很清楚。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子睡得很香。
    孩子睡得很香。 · Hái zi shuì de hěn xiāng.
  5. In this lesson, what does “这辆车开得太快。” mean?
    1. The teacher explains things simply.
    2. She speaks very clearly.
    3. This vehicle goes too fast.
    Show answer · 查看答案This vehicle goes too fast.
    Zhè liàng chē kāi de tài kuài. · This vehicle goes too fast.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “She sings softly.”?
    1. 她唱得很轻。
    2. 他们准备得很充分。
    3. 你中文说得很好。
    Show answer · 查看答案她唱得很轻。
    她唱得很轻。 · Tā chàng de hěn qīng.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我听得很清楚。” mean?
    1. He walks slowly.
    2. I can hear very clearly.
    3. You write faster than I do.
    Show answer · 查看答案I can hear very clearly.
    Wǒ tīng de hěn qīng chu. · I can hear very clearly.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The teacher explains things simply.”?
    1. 她说得很清楚。
    2. 孩子睡得很香。
    3. 老师解释得很简单。
    Show answer · 查看答案老师解释得很简单。
    老师解释得很简单。 · Lǎo shī jiě shì de hěn jiǎn dān.
  9. In this lesson, what does “他们准备得很充分。” mean?
    1. They prepared thoroughly.
    2. You speak Chinese very well.
    3. This vehicle goes too fast.
    Show answer · 查看答案They prepared thoroughly.
    Tā men zhǔn bèi de hěn chōng fèn. · They prepared thoroughly.
  10. Which pinyin reads “你写得比我快。”?
    1. Tā chàng de hěn qīng.
    2. Nǐ xiě de bǐ wǒ kuài.
    3. Tā zǒu de hěn màn.
    Show answer · 查看答案Nǐ xiě de bǐ wǒ kuài.
    你写得比我快。 means “You write faster than I do.”
5. 时长和次数 — Duration and frequency
verb + duration / 次

A duration or 次 can follow the action to say how long or how many times. With a full object, word order may need a repeated verb or another natural pattern.

Notice: 我学了两个小时中文 and 我学中文学了两个小时 are both natural.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我等了十分钟。
Wǒ děng le shí fēnzhōng.
I waited ten minutes.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我住了三个月。
Wǒ zhù le sān ge yuè.
I stayed for three months.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
他等了半个小时。
Tā děng le bàn ge xiǎo shí.
He waited for half an hour.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
我们去过两次。
Wǒ men qù guo liǎng cì.
We have gone twice.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
她每天工作八个小时。
Tā měi tiān gōng zuò bā ge xiǎo shí.
She works eight hours every day.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
孩子睡了十个小时。
Hái zi shuì le shí ge xiǎo shí.
The child slept ten hours.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我看了这本书三遍。
Wǒ kàn le zhè běn shū sān biàn.
I read this book three times.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
他们聊了很久。
Tā men liáo le hěn jiǔ.
They talked for a long time.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
你来过几次？
Nǐ lái guo jǐ cì?
How many times have you been here?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我只练习了五分钟。
Wǒ zhǐ liàn xí le wǔ fēn zhōng.
I practiced for only five minutes.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 十分钟 measure?
    1. number of people
    2. duration
    3. distance
    Show answer · 查看答案duration
    A duration or 次 can follow the action to say how long or how many times. With a full object, word order may need a repeated verb or another natural pattern.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I stayed for three months.”?
    1. 她每天工作八个小时。
    2. 他们聊了很久。
    3. 我住了三个月。
    Show answer · 查看答案我住了三个月。
    我住了三个月。 · Wǒ zhù le sān ge yuè.
  3. In this lesson, what does “他等了半个小时。” mean?
    1. He waited for half an hour.
    2. The child slept ten hours.
    3. How many times have you been here?
    Show answer · 查看答案He waited for half an hour.
    Tā děng le bàn ge xiǎo shí. · He waited for half an hour.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “We have gone twice.”?
    1. 我只练习了五分钟。
    2. 我们去过两次。
    3. 我看了这本书三遍。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们去过两次。
    我们去过两次。 · Wǒ men qù guo liǎng cì.
  5. In this lesson, what does “她每天工作八个小时。” mean?
    1. They talked for a long time.
    2. I waited ten minutes.
    3. She works eight hours every day.
    Show answer · 查看答案She works eight hours every day.
    Tā měi tiān gōng zuò bā ge xiǎo shí. · She works eight hours every day.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The child slept ten hours.”?
    1. 孩子睡了十个小时。
    2. 你来过几次？
    3. 我住了三个月。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子睡了十个小时。
    孩子睡了十个小时。 · Hái zi shuì le shí ge xiǎo shí.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我看了这本书三遍。” mean?
    1. He waited for half an hour.
    2. I read this book three times.
    3. I practiced for only five minutes.
    Show answer · 查看答案I read this book three times.
    Wǒ kàn le zhè běn shū sān biàn. · I read this book three times.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “They talked for a long time.”?
    1. 我等了十分钟。
    2. 我们去过两次。
    3. 他们聊了很久。
    Show answer · 查看答案他们聊了很久。
    他们聊了很久。 · Tā men liáo le hěn jiǔ.
  9. In this lesson, what does “你来过几次？” mean?
    1. How many times have you been here?
    2. I stayed for three months.
    3. She works eight hours every day.
    Show answer · 查看答案How many times have you been here?
    Nǐ lái guo jǐ cì? · How many times have you been here?
  10. Which pinyin reads “我只练习了五分钟。”?
    1. Hái zi shuì le shí ge xiǎo shí.
    2. Wǒ zhǐ liàn xí le wǔ fēn zhōng.
    3. Tā děng le bàn ge xiǎo shí.
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ zhǐ liàn xí le wǔ fēn zhōng.
    我只练习了五分钟。 means “I practiced for only five minutes.”
6. 动作开始与继续 — Beginning and continuing
verb + 起来 / 下去

起来 can mark an action starting or a new impression; 下去 can mark an action continuing onward.

Notice: Meaning depends on the verb; not every use refers to literal up or down.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
请说下去。
Qǐng shuō xiàqu.
Please continue speaking.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
天冷起来了。
Tiān lěng qǐlai le.
It has started getting cold.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
他笑了起来。
Tā xiào le qǐlai.
He started laughing.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
请继续说下去。
Qǐng jì xù shuō xià qù.
Please keep talking.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
孩子们玩了起来。
Hái zi men wán le qǐlai.
The children started playing.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这个问题变得复杂起来。
Zhè ge wèn tí biàn de fù zá qǐlai.
This problem is becoming complicated.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我们得坚持下去。
Wǒ men děi jiān chí xià qù.
We have to keep going.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
她听起来很高兴。
Tā tīng qǐlai hěn gāo xìng.
She sounds happy.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
故事还会继续下去。
Gù shi hái huì jì xù xià qù.
The story will continue.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
风刮起来了。
Fēng guā qǐlai le.
The wind has picked up.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 说下去 mean here?
    1. speak yesterday
    2. keep speaking
    3. speak quietly
    Show answer · 查看答案keep speaking
    起来 can mark an action starting or a new impression; 下去 can mark an action continuing onward.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “It has started getting cold.”?
    1. 孩子们玩了起来。
    2. 她听起来很高兴。
    3. 天冷起来了。
    Show answer · 查看答案天冷起来了。
    天冷起来了。 · Tiān lěng qǐlai le.
  3. In this lesson, what does “他笑了起来。” mean?
    1. He started laughing.
    2. This problem is becoming complicated.
    3. The story will continue.
    Show answer · 查看答案He started laughing.
    Tā xiào le qǐlai. · He started laughing.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please keep talking.”?
    1. 风刮起来了。
    2. 请继续说下去。
    3. 我们得坚持下去。
    Show answer · 查看答案请继续说下去。
    请继续说下去。 · Qǐng jì xù shuō xià qù.
  5. In this lesson, what does “孩子们玩了起来。” mean?
    1. She sounds happy.
    2. Please continue speaking.
    3. The children started playing.
    Show answer · 查看答案The children started playing.
    Hái zi men wán le qǐlai. · The children started playing.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “This problem is becoming complicated.”?
    1. 这个问题变得复杂起来。
    2. 故事还会继续下去。
    3. 天冷起来了。
    Show answer · 查看答案这个问题变得复杂起来。
    这个问题变得复杂起来。 · Zhè ge wèn tí biàn de fù zá qǐlai.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我们得坚持下去。” mean?
    1. He started laughing.
    2. We have to keep going.
    3. The wind has picked up.
    Show answer · 查看答案We have to keep going.
    Wǒ men děi jiān chí xià qù. · We have to keep going.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “She sounds happy.”?
    1. 请说下去。
    2. 请继续说下去。
    3. 她听起来很高兴。
    Show answer · 查看答案她听起来很高兴。
    她听起来很高兴。 · Tā tīng qǐlai hěn gāo xìng.
  9. In this lesson, what does “故事还会继续下去。” mean?
    1. The story will continue.
    2. It has started getting cold.
    3. The children started playing.
    Show answer · 查看答案The story will continue.
    Gù shi hái huì jì xù xià qù. · The story will continue.
  10. Which pinyin reads “风刮起来了。”?
    1. Zhè ge wèn tí biàn de fù zá qǐlai.
    2. Fēng guā qǐlai le.
    3. Tā xiào le qǐlai.
    Show answer · 查看答案Fēng guā qǐlai le.
    风刮起来了。 means “The wind has picked up.”
MODULE 07

能力、意愿与请求 — Ability, intention & requests

Choose the right word for knowing, being able, wanting, and asking.

1. 会、能、可以 — Learned skill, practical ability, and permission
会 / 能 / 可以 + verb

会 often means learned skill or likelihood; 能 means capacity or circumstances; 可以 means permission or acceptability. Context may overlap.

Notice: Use 可以 for a straightforward permission request.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我可以坐这里吗？
Wǒ kěyǐ zuò zhèlǐ ma?
May I sit here?
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我会开车。
Wǒ huì kāi chē.
I know how to drive.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
今天我不能来。
Jīn tiān wǒ bù néng lái.
I cannot come today.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
这里可以拍照吗？
Zhè lǐ kě yǐ pāi zhào ma?
May I take pictures here?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
他会做饭。
Tā huì zuò fàn.
He knows how to cook.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这箱子太重，我拿不动。
Zhè xiāngzi tài zhòng, wǒ ná bú dòng.
This suitcase is too heavy for me to lift.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
你能帮我吗？
Nǐ néng bāng wǒ ma?
Can you help me?
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
孩子可以进来。
Hái zi kě yǐ jìn lái.
The child is allowed to come in.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
明天可能会下雨。
Míng tiān kě néng huì xià yǔ.
It may rain tomorrow.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我们现在能进去吗？
Wǒ men xiàn zài néng jìn qù ma?
Can we go in now?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which most directly asks permission?
    1. 可以
    2. 已经
    3. 过
    Show answer · 查看答案可以
    会 often means learned skill or likelihood; 能 means capacity or circumstances; 可以 means permission or acceptability. Context may overlap.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I know how to drive.”?
    1. 孩子可以进来。
    2. 我会开车。
    3. 他会做饭。
    Show answer · 查看答案我会开车。
    我会开车。 · Wǒ huì kāi chē.
  3. In this lesson, what does “今天我不能来。” mean?
    1. This suitcase is too heavy for me to lift.
    2. It may rain tomorrow.
    3. I cannot come today.
    Show answer · 查看答案I cannot come today.
    Jīn tiān wǒ bù néng lái. · I cannot come today.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “May I take pictures here?”?
    1. 这里可以拍照吗？
    2. 你能帮我吗？
    3. 我们现在能进去吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案这里可以拍照吗？
    这里可以拍照吗？ · Zhè lǐ kě yǐ pāi zhào ma?
  5. In this lesson, what does “他会做饭。” mean?
    1. May I sit here?
    2. He knows how to cook.
    3. The child is allowed to come in.
    Show answer · 查看答案He knows how to cook.
    Tā huì zuò fàn. · He knows how to cook.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “This suitcase is too heavy for me to lift.”?
    1. 明天可能会下雨。
    2. 我会开车。
    3. 这箱子太重，我拿不动。
    Show answer · 查看答案这箱子太重，我拿不动。
    这箱子太重，我拿不动。 · Zhè xiāngzi tài zhòng, wǒ ná bú dòng.
  7. In this lesson, what does “你能帮我吗？” mean?
    1. Can you help me?
    2. Can we go in now?
    3. I cannot come today.
    Show answer · 查看答案Can you help me?
    Nǐ néng bāng wǒ ma? · Can you help me?
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The child is allowed to come in.”?
    1. 这里可以拍照吗？
    2. 孩子可以进来。
    3. 我可以坐这里吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子可以进来。
    孩子可以进来。 · Hái zi kě yǐ jìn lái.
  9. In this lesson, what does “明天可能会下雨。” mean?
    1. I know how to drive.
    2. He knows how to cook.
    3. It may rain tomorrow.
    Show answer · 查看答案It may rain tomorrow.
    Míng tiān kě néng huì xià yǔ. · It may rain tomorrow.
  10. Which pinyin reads “我们现在能进去吗？”?
    1. Wǒ men xiàn zài néng jìn qù ma?
    2. Jīn tiān wǒ bù néng lái.
    3. Zhè xiāngzi tài zhòng, wǒ ná bú dòng.
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ men xiàn zài néng jìn qù ma?
    我们现在能进去吗？ means “Can we go in now?”
2. 想和要 — Gentle desire versus want / need
想 / 要 + verb

想 expresses wanting or intending, often gently. 要 can mean want, need, or be about to, depending on context.

Notice: At a restaurant, 我要… is a common direct order.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我想喝点儿水。
Wǒ xiǎng hē diǎnr shuǐ.
I’d like some water.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我想学中文。
Wǒ xiǎng xué zhōng wén.
I want to learn Chinese.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我要一碗面。
Wǒ yào yì wǎn miàn.
I would like a bowl of noodles.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
他想去公园。
Tā xiǎng qù gōng yuán.
He wants to go to the park.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我们要走了。
Wǒ men yào zǒu le.
We are about to leave.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
你想看菜单吗？
Nǐ xiǎng kàn cài dān ma?
Would you like to see the menu?
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
她不要咖啡。
Tā bú yào kā fēi.
She does not want coffee.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
孩子想回家。
Hái zi xiǎng huí jiā.
The child wants to go home.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
我需要一张票。
Wǒ xū yào yì zhāng piào.
I need a ticket.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
你要不要休息一下？
Nǐ yào bú yào xiū xi yī xià?
Do you want to rest a bit?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 想 add here?
    1. desire or intention
    2. completed action
    3. a location
    Show answer · 查看答案desire or intention
    想 expresses wanting or intending, often gently. 要 can mean want, need, or be about to, depending on context.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I want to learn Chinese.”?
    1. 孩子想回家。
    2. 我想学中文。
    3. 我们要走了。
    Show answer · 查看答案我想学中文。
    我想学中文。 · Wǒ xiǎng xué zhōng wén.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我要一碗面。” mean?
    1. Would you like to see the menu?
    2. I need a ticket.
    3. I would like a bowl of noodles.
    Show answer · 查看答案I would like a bowl of noodles.
    Wǒ yào yì wǎn miàn. · I would like a bowl of noodles.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “He wants to go to the park.”?
    1. 他想去公园。
    2. 她不要咖啡。
    3. 你要不要休息一下？
    Show answer · 查看答案他想去公园。
    他想去公园。 · Tā xiǎng qù gōng yuán.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我们要走了。” mean?
    1. I’d like some water.
    2. We are about to leave.
    3. The child wants to go home.
    Show answer · 查看答案We are about to leave.
    Wǒ men yào zǒu le. · We are about to leave.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Would you like to see the menu?”?
    1. 我需要一张票。
    2. 我想学中文。
    3. 你想看菜单吗？
    Show answer · 查看答案你想看菜单吗？
    你想看菜单吗？ · Nǐ xiǎng kàn cài dān ma?
  7. In this lesson, what does “她不要咖啡。” mean?
    1. She does not want coffee.
    2. Do you want to rest a bit?
    3. I would like a bowl of noodles.
    Show answer · 查看答案She does not want coffee.
    Tā bú yào kā fēi. · She does not want coffee.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The child wants to go home.”?
    1. 他想去公园。
    2. 孩子想回家。
    3. 我想喝点儿水。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子想回家。
    孩子想回家。 · Hái zi xiǎng huí jiā.
  9. In this lesson, what does “我需要一张票。” mean?
    1. I want to learn Chinese.
    2. We are about to leave.
    3. I need a ticket.
    Show answer · 查看答案I need a ticket.
    Wǒ xū yào yì zhāng piào. · I need a ticket.
  10. Which pinyin reads “你要不要休息一下？”?
    1. Nǐ yào bú yào xiū xi yī xià?
    2. Wǒ yào yì wǎn miàn.
    3. Nǐ xiǎng kàn cài dān ma?
    Show answer · 查看答案Nǐ yào bú yào xiū xi yī xià?
    你要不要休息一下？ means “Do you want to rest a bit?”
3. 应该与必须 — Should and must
应该 / 得 / 必须 + verb

应该 gives advice or expectation; 得 (děi) expresses necessity; 必须 is stronger, often a requirement.

Notice: The pronunciation of necessity 得 is děi, distinct from complement 得 de.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
你得带护照。
Nǐ děi dài hùzhào.
You need to bring your passport.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
你应该早点睡。
Nǐ yīng gāi zǎo diǎn shuì.
You should sleep earlier.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我们必须带护照。
Wǒ men bì xū dài hù zhào.
We must bring passports.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
现在得出发了。
Xiàn zài děi chū fā le.
We have to leave now.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
孩子应该多喝水。
Hái zi yīng gāi duō hē shuǐ.
The child should drink more water.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这张表必须签名。
Zhè zhāng biǎo bì xū qiānmíng.
This form must be signed.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我得给家里打电话。
Wǒ děi gěi jiā lǐ dǎ diàn huà.
I have to call home.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
你不必今天完成。
Nǐ bú bì jīn tiān wán chéng.
You do not have to finish today.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
上车前必须买票。
Shàng chē qián bì xū mǎi piào.
You must buy a ticket before boarding.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我们应该先问清楚。
Wǒ men yīng gāi xiān wèn qīng chu.
We should ask and get it clear first.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does děi express?
    1. necessity
    2. past experience
    3. the object of a verb
    Show answer · 查看答案necessity
    应该 gives advice or expectation; 得 (děi) expresses necessity; 必须 is stronger, often a requirement.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “You should sleep earlier.”?
    1. 你不必今天完成。
    2. 你应该早点睡。
    3. 孩子应该多喝水。
    Show answer · 查看答案你应该早点睡。
    你应该早点睡。 · Nǐ yīng gāi zǎo diǎn shuì.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我们必须带护照。” mean?
    1. This form must be signed.
    2. You must buy a ticket before boarding.
    3. We must bring passports.
    Show answer · 查看答案We must bring passports.
    Wǒ men bì xū dài hù zhào. · We must bring passports.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “We have to leave now.”?
    1. 现在得出发了。
    2. 我得给家里打电话。
    3. 我们应该先问清楚。
    Show answer · 查看答案现在得出发了。
    现在得出发了。 · Xiàn zài děi chū fā le.
  5. In this lesson, what does “孩子应该多喝水。” mean?
    1. You need to bring your passport.
    2. The child should drink more water.
    3. You do not have to finish today.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child should drink more water.
    Hái zi yīng gāi duō hē shuǐ. · The child should drink more water.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “This form must be signed.”?
    1. 上车前必须买票。
    2. 你应该早点睡。
    3. 这张表必须签名。
    Show answer · 查看答案这张表必须签名。
    这张表必须签名。 · Zhè zhāng biǎo bì xū qiānmíng.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我得给家里打电话。” mean?
    1. I have to call home.
    2. We should ask and get it clear first.
    3. We must bring passports.
    Show answer · 查看答案I have to call home.
    Wǒ děi gěi jiā lǐ dǎ diàn huà. · I have to call home.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “You do not have to finish today.”?
    1. 现在得出发了。
    2. 你不必今天完成。
    3. 你得带护照。
    Show answer · 查看答案你不必今天完成。
    你不必今天完成。 · Nǐ bú bì jīn tiān wán chéng.
  9. In this lesson, what does “上车前必须买票。” mean?
    1. You should sleep earlier.
    2. The child should drink more water.
    3. You must buy a ticket before boarding.
    Show answer · 查看答案You must buy a ticket before boarding.
    Shàng chē qián bì xū mǎi piào. · You must buy a ticket before boarding.
  10. Which pinyin reads “我们应该先问清楚。”?
    1. Wǒ men yīng gāi xiān wèn qīng chu.
    2. Wǒ men bì xū dài hù zhào.
    3. Zhè zhāng biǎo bì xū qiānmíng.
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ men yīng gāi xiān wèn qīng chu.
    我们应该先问清楚。 means “We should ask and get it clear first.”
4. 用“请”和“给”提出请求 — Polite requests and giving to someone
请 + verb / 给 + person + object

请 makes an invitation or polite request. 给 identifies a recipient or can mean “give.”

Notice: 请给我一杯水 is a useful polite request.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
请给我一张地图。
Qǐng gěi wǒ yì zhāng dìtú.
Please give me a map.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
请坐。
Qǐng zuò.
Please sit.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
请给她一杯水。
Qǐng gěi tā yì bēi shuǐ.
Please give her a glass of water.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
给我看一下菜单。
Gěi wǒ kàn yī xià cài dān.
Show me the menu, please.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
请问车站在哪里？
Qǐng wèn chēzhàn zài nǎ lǐ?
Excuse me, where is the station?
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
请帮我拿一下行李。
Qǐng bāng wǒ ná yī xià xíng li.
Please help me carry the luggage.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我给你发地址。
Wǒ gěi nǐ fā dì zhǐ.
I will send you the address.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
请把门打开。
Qǐng bǎ mén dǎ kāi.
Please open the door.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
请给孩子一张纸。
Qǐng gěi hái zi yì zhāng zhǐ.
Please give the child a sheet of paper.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
给我一点儿时间。
Gěi wǒ yìdiǎnr shí jiān.
Give me a little time.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Who receives the map?
    1. 我
    2. 地图
    3. 张
    Show answer · 查看答案我
    请 makes an invitation or polite request. 给 identifies a recipient or can mean “give.”
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please sit.”?
    1. 请把门打开。
    2. 请坐。
    3. 请问车站在哪里？
    Show answer · 查看答案请坐。
    请坐。 · Qǐng zuò.
  3. In this lesson, what does “请给她一杯水。” mean?
    1. Please help me carry the luggage.
    2. Please give the child a sheet of paper.
    3. Please give her a glass of water.
    Show answer · 查看答案Please give her a glass of water.
    Qǐng gěi tā yì bēi shuǐ. · Please give her a glass of water.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Show me the menu, please.”?
    1. 给我看一下菜单。
    2. 我给你发地址。
    3. 给我一点儿时间。
    Show answer · 查看答案给我看一下菜单。
    给我看一下菜单。 · Gěi wǒ kàn yī xià cài dān.
  5. In this lesson, what does “请问车站在哪里？” mean?
    1. Please give me a map.
    2. Excuse me, where is the station?
    3. Please open the door.
    Show answer · 查看答案Excuse me, where is the station?
    Qǐng wèn chēzhàn zài nǎ lǐ? · Excuse me, where is the station?
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please help me carry the luggage.”?
    1. 请给孩子一张纸。
    2. 请坐。
    3. 请帮我拿一下行李。
    Show answer · 查看答案请帮我拿一下行李。
    请帮我拿一下行李。 · Qǐng bāng wǒ ná yī xià xíng li.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我给你发地址。” mean?
    1. I will send you the address.
    2. Give me a little time.
    3. Please give her a glass of water.
    Show answer · 查看答案I will send you the address.
    Wǒ gěi nǐ fā dì zhǐ. · I will send you the address.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please open the door.”?
    1. 给我看一下菜单。
    2. 请把门打开。
    3. 请给我一张地图。
    Show answer · 查看答案请把门打开。
    请把门打开。 · Qǐng bǎ mén dǎ kāi.
  9. In this lesson, what does “请给孩子一张纸。” mean?
    1. Please sit.
    2. Excuse me, where is the station?
    3. Please give the child a sheet of paper.
    Show answer · 查看答案Please give the child a sheet of paper.
    Qǐng gěi hái zi yì zhāng zhǐ. · Please give the child a sheet of paper.
  10. Which pinyin reads “给我一点儿时间。”?
    1. Gěi wǒ yìdiǎnr shí jiān.
    2. Qǐng gěi tā yì bēi shuǐ.
    3. Qǐng bāng wǒ ná yī xià xíng li.
    Show answer · 查看答案Gěi wǒ yìdiǎnr shí jiān.
    给我一点儿时间。 means “Give me a little time.”
5. 再与又 — Future repetition versus repetition that happened
再 for next/repeat; 又 for repeat that happened

再 often refers to a later repetition; 又 commonly reports that something happened again.

Notice: 再见 literally points to seeing again in the future.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
他昨天又来了。
Tā zuótiān yòu lái le.
He came again yesterday.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
明天再来吧。
Míng tiān zài lái ba.
Come again tomorrow.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
她昨天又迟到了。
Tā zuó tiān yòu chí dào le.
She was late again yesterday.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
请再说一遍。
Qǐng zài shuō yí biàn.
Please say it again.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
雨又下起来了。
Yǔ yòu xià qǐlai le.
It started raining again.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我们下次再谈。
Wǒ men xià cì zài tán.
We will talk again next time.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
他又忘了钥匙。
Tā yòu wàng le yào shi.
He forgot the keys again.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
再给我一杯水。
Zài gěi wǒ yì bēi shuǐ.
Give me another glass of water.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
你怎么又回来了？
Nǐ zěn me yòu huí lái le?
Why have you come back again?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
吃完饭再走。
Chī wán fàn zài zǒu.
Leave after you have eaten.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which points to repetition yesterday?
    1. 又
    2. 再
    3. 才
    Show answer · 查看答案又
    再 often refers to a later repetition; 又 commonly reports that something happened again.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Come again tomorrow.”?
    1. 再给我一杯水。
    2. 明天再来吧。
    3. 雨又下起来了。
    Show answer · 查看答案明天再来吧。
    明天再来吧。 · Míng tiān zài lái ba.
  3. In this lesson, what does “她昨天又迟到了。” mean?
    1. We will talk again next time.
    2. Why have you come back again?
    3. She was late again yesterday.
    Show answer · 查看答案She was late again yesterday.
    Tā zuó tiān yòu chí dào le. · She was late again yesterday.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please say it again.”?
    1. 请再说一遍。
    2. 他又忘了钥匙。
    3. 吃完饭再走。
    Show answer · 查看答案请再说一遍。
    请再说一遍。 · Qǐng zài shuō yí biàn.
  5. In this lesson, what does “雨又下起来了。” mean?
    1. He came again yesterday.
    2. It started raining again.
    3. Give me another glass of water.
    Show answer · 查看答案It started raining again.
    Yǔ yòu xià qǐlai le. · It started raining again.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “We will talk again next time.”?
    1. 你怎么又回来了？
    2. 明天再来吧。
    3. 我们下次再谈。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们下次再谈。
    我们下次再谈。 · Wǒ men xià cì zài tán.
  7. In this lesson, what does “他又忘了钥匙。” mean?
    1. He forgot the keys again.
    2. Leave after you have eaten.
    3. She was late again yesterday.
    Show answer · 查看答案He forgot the keys again.
    Tā yòu wàng le yào shi. · He forgot the keys again.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Give me another glass of water.”?
    1. 请再说一遍。
    2. 再给我一杯水。
    3. 他昨天又来了。
    Show answer · 查看答案再给我一杯水。
    再给我一杯水。 · Zài gěi wǒ yì bēi shuǐ.
  9. In this lesson, what does “你怎么又回来了？” mean?
    1. Come again tomorrow.
    2. It started raining again.
    3. Why have you come back again?
    Show answer · 查看答案Why have you come back again?
    Nǐ zěn me yòu huí lái le? · Why have you come back again?
  10. Which pinyin reads “吃完饭再走。”?
    1. Chī wán fàn zài zǒu.
    2. Tā zuó tiān yòu chí dào le.
    3. Wǒ men xià cì zài tán.
    Show answer · 查看答案Chī wán fàn zài zǒu.
    吃完饭再走。 means “Leave after you have eaten.”
6. 劝阻与禁止 — Don’t do it
别 / 不要 + verb

别 and 不要 make direct negative requests or instructions. Add 了 in 别…了 to urge someone to stop an ongoing action.

Notice: 别担心 is a common reassurance: “Don’t worry.”

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
别在这里拍照。
Bié zài zhèlǐ pāizhào.
Don’t take photos here.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
不要开门。
Bú yào kāi mén.
Do not open the door.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
别担心。
Bié dān xīn.
Do not worry.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
请不要在这里吸烟。
Qǐng bú yào zài zhè lǐ xīyān.
Please do not smoke here.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
别走太快。
Bié zǒu tài kuài.
Do not walk too fast.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
不要把票弄丢。
Bú yào bǎ piào nòng diū.
Do not lose the ticket.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
别说了。
Bié shuō le.
Stop talking.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
请不要拍照。
Qǐng bú yào pāi zhào.
Please do not take pictures.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
别忘了带钥匙。
Bié wàng le dài yào shi.
Do not forget to bring your keys.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
不要碰那个按钮。
Bú yào pèng nà ge àn niǔ.
Do not touch that button.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which gives a negative instruction?
    1. 别
    2. 又
    3. 过
    Show answer · 查看答案别
    别 and 不要 make direct negative requests or instructions. Add 了 in 别…了 to urge someone to stop an ongoing action.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Do not open the door.”?
    1. 请不要拍照。
    2. 不要开门。
    3. 别走太快。
    Show answer · 查看答案不要开门。
    不要开门。 · Bú yào kāi mén.
  3. In this lesson, what does “别担心。” mean?
    1. Do not lose the ticket.
    2. Do not forget to bring your keys.
    3. Do not worry.
    Show answer · 查看答案Do not worry.
    Bié dān xīn. · Do not worry.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please do not smoke here.”?
    1. 请不要在这里吸烟。
    2. 别说了。
    3. 不要碰那个按钮。
    Show answer · 查看答案请不要在这里吸烟。
    请不要在这里吸烟。 · Qǐng bú yào zài zhè lǐ xīyān.
  5. In this lesson, what does “别走太快。” mean?
    1. Don’t take photos here.
    2. Do not walk too fast.
    3. Please do not take pictures.
    Show answer · 查看答案Do not walk too fast.
    Bié zǒu tài kuài. · Do not walk too fast.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Do not lose the ticket.”?
    1. 别忘了带钥匙。
    2. 不要开门。
    3. 不要把票弄丢。
    Show answer · 查看答案不要把票弄丢。
    不要把票弄丢。 · Bú yào bǎ piào nòng diū.
  7. In this lesson, what does “别说了。” mean?
    1. Stop talking.
    2. Do not touch that button.
    3. Do not worry.
    Show answer · 查看答案Stop talking.
    Bié shuō le. · Stop talking.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please do not take pictures.”?
    1. 请不要在这里吸烟。
    2. 请不要拍照。
    3. 别在这里拍照。
    Show answer · 查看答案请不要拍照。
    请不要拍照。 · Qǐng bú yào pāi zhào.
  9. In this lesson, what does “别忘了带钥匙。” mean?
    1. Do not open the door.
    2. Do not walk too fast.
    3. Do not forget to bring your keys.
    Show answer · 查看答案Do not forget to bring your keys.
    Bié wàng le dài yào shi. · Do not forget to bring your keys.
  10. Which pinyin reads “不要碰那个按钮。”?
    1. Bú yào pèng nà ge àn niǔ.
    2. Bié dān xīn.
    3. Bú yào bǎ piào nòng diū.
    Show answer · 查看答案Bú yào pèng nà ge àn niǔ.
    不要碰那个按钮。 means “Do not touch that button.”
MODULE 08

修饰语与短暂动作 — Modifiers & short actions

Attach descriptions to nouns and actions.

1. 用“的”表示所属 — The possessive marker de
owner + 的 + noun

的 connects an owner or related phrase to a noun. Close relations sometimes omit it, such as 我妈妈.

Notice: The same particle also closes many descriptive clauses before nouns.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
这是我的书。
Zhè shì wǒ de shū.
This is my book.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
那是她的车。
Nà shì tā de chē.
That is her vehicle.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
这是我们的房间。
Zhè shì wǒ men de fáng jiān.
This is our room.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
我朋友的电话在这里。
Wǒ péng you de diàn huà zài zhè lǐ.
My friend's phone is here.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
这家店的咖啡很好。
Zhè jiā diàn de kā fēi hěn hǎo.
This shop's coffee is good.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
你的名字怎么写？
Nǐ de míng zi zěn me xiě?
How do you write your name?
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
孩子的鞋在床下。
Hái zi de xié zài chuáng xià.
The child's shoes are under the bed.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
这张票是我妈妈的。
Zhè zhāng piào shì wǒ mā ma de.
This ticket is my mother's.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
酒店的地址是什么？
Jiǔ diàn de dì zhǐ shì shén me?
What is the hotel's address?
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
他有一本新的词典。
Tā yǒu yì běn xīn de cí diǎn.
He has a new dictionary.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 的 connect here?
    1. verb and duration
    2. two questions
    3. owner and noun
    Show answer · 查看答案owner and noun
    的 connects an owner or related phrase to a noun. Close relations sometimes omit it, such as 我妈妈.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “That is her vehicle.”?
    1. 那是她的车。
    2. 这家店的咖啡很好。
    3. 这张票是我妈妈的。
    Show answer · 查看答案那是她的车。
    那是她的车。 · Nà shì tā de chē.
  3. In this lesson, what does “这是我们的房间。” mean?
    1. What is the hotel's address?
    2. This is our room.
    3. How do you write your name?
    Show answer · 查看答案This is our room.
    Zhè shì wǒ men de fáng jiān. · This is our room.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “My friend's phone is here.”?
    1. 孩子的鞋在床下。
    2. 他有一本新的词典。
    3. 我朋友的电话在这里。
    Show answer · 查看答案我朋友的电话在这里。
    我朋友的电话在这里。 · Wǒ péng you de diàn huà zài zhè lǐ.
  5. In this lesson, what does “这家店的咖啡很好。” mean?
    1. This shop's coffee is good.
    2. This ticket is my mother's.
    3. This is my book.
    Show answer · 查看答案This shop's coffee is good.
    Zhè jiā diàn de kā fēi hěn hǎo. · This shop's coffee is good.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “How do you write your name?”?
    1. 那是她的车。
    2. 你的名字怎么写？
    3. 酒店的地址是什么？
    Show answer · 查看答案你的名字怎么写？
    你的名字怎么写？ · Nǐ de míng zi zěn me xiě?
  7. In this lesson, what does “孩子的鞋在床下。” mean?
    1. He has a new dictionary.
    2. This is our room.
    3. The child's shoes are under the bed.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child's shoes are under the bed.
    Hái zi de xié zài chuáng xià. · The child's shoes are under the bed.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “This ticket is my mother's.”?
    1. 这张票是我妈妈的。
    2. 这是我的书。
    3. 我朋友的电话在这里。
    Show answer · 查看答案这张票是我妈妈的。
    这张票是我妈妈的。 · Zhè zhāng piào shì wǒ mā ma de.
  9. In this lesson, what does “酒店的地址是什么？” mean?
    1. This shop's coffee is good.
    2. What is the hotel's address?
    3. That is her vehicle.
    Show answer · 查看答案What is the hotel's address?
    Jiǔ diàn de dì zhǐ shì shén me? · What is the hotel's address?
  10. Which pinyin reads “他有一本新的词典。”?
    1. Zhè shì wǒ men de fáng jiān.
    2. Nǐ de míng zi zěn me xiě?
    3. Tā yǒu yì běn xīn de cí diǎn.
    Show answer · 查看答案Tā yǒu yì běn xīn de cí diǎn.
    他有一本新的词典。 means “He has a new dictionary.”
2. 放在名词前的说明 — Relative clauses
description + 的 + noun

Put the description before the noun and end it with 的. English often puts “who/that...” after the noun.

Notice: The whole phrase before 的 identifies which noun.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我买的书很好。
Wǒ mǎi de shū hěn hǎo.
The book I bought is good.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
你点的菜来了。
Nǐ diǎn de cài lái le.
The dish you ordered has arrived.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
坐在门口的人是老师。
Zuò zài ménkǒu de rén shì lǎo shī.
The person sitting by the door is the teacher.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
我昨天买的票不见了。
Wǒ zuó tiān mǎi de piào bú jiàn le.
The ticket I bought yesterday is missing.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
她写的字很漂亮。
Tā xiě de zì hěn piào liang.
The characters she writes are beautiful.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
你要找的店在那边。
Nǐ yào zhǎo de diàn zài nàbiān.
The shop you are looking for is over there.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
住在楼上的人很友好。
Zhù zài lóu shàng de rén hěn yǒu hǎo.
The person who lives upstairs is friendly.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我们刚才看的房间太小。
Wǒ men gāng cái kàn de fáng jiān tài xiǎo.
The room we just saw is too small.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
他送给我的书很有意思。
Tā sòng gěi wǒ de shū hěn yǒu yì si.
The book he gave me is interesting.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
会说中文的司机来了。
Huì shuō zhōng wén de sī jī lái le.
The driver who speaks Chinese has arrived.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which part identifies the book?
    1. 很好
    2. 书很好
    3. 我买的
    Show answer · 查看答案我买的
    Put the description before the noun and end it with 的. English often puts “who/that...” after the noun.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “The dish you ordered has arrived.”?
    1. 你点的菜来了。
    2. 她写的字很漂亮。
    3. 我们刚才看的房间太小。
    Show answer · 查看答案你点的菜来了。
    你点的菜来了。 · Nǐ diǎn de cài lái le.
  3. In this lesson, what does “坐在门口的人是老师。” mean?
    1. The book he gave me is interesting.
    2. The person sitting by the door is the teacher.
    3. The shop you are looking for is over there.
    Show answer · 查看答案The person sitting by the door is the teacher.
    Zuò zài ménkǒu de rén shì lǎo shī. · The person sitting by the door is the teacher.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “The ticket I bought yesterday is missing.”?
    1. 住在楼上的人很友好。
    2. 会说中文的司机来了。
    3. 我昨天买的票不见了。
    Show answer · 查看答案我昨天买的票不见了。
    我昨天买的票不见了。 · Wǒ zuó tiān mǎi de piào bú jiàn le.
  5. In this lesson, what does “她写的字很漂亮。” mean?
    1. The characters she writes are beautiful.
    2. The room we just saw is too small.
    3. The book I bought is good.
    Show answer · 查看答案The characters she writes are beautiful.
    Tā xiě de zì hěn piào liang. · The characters she writes are beautiful.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The shop you are looking for is over there.”?
    1. 你点的菜来了。
    2. 你要找的店在那边。
    3. 他送给我的书很有意思。
    Show answer · 查看答案你要找的店在那边。
    你要找的店在那边。 · Nǐ yào zhǎo de diàn zài nàbiān.
  7. In this lesson, what does “住在楼上的人很友好。” mean?
    1. The driver who speaks Chinese has arrived.
    2. The person sitting by the door is the teacher.
    3. The person who lives upstairs is friendly.
    Show answer · 查看答案The person who lives upstairs is friendly.
    Zhù zài lóu shàng de rén hěn yǒu hǎo. · The person who lives upstairs is friendly.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The room we just saw is too small.”?
    1. 我们刚才看的房间太小。
    2. 我买的书很好。
    3. 我昨天买的票不见了。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们刚才看的房间太小。
    我们刚才看的房间太小。 · Wǒ men gāng cái kàn de fáng jiān tài xiǎo.
  9. In this lesson, what does “他送给我的书很有意思。” mean?
    1. The characters she writes are beautiful.
    2. The book he gave me is interesting.
    3. The dish you ordered has arrived.
    Show answer · 查看答案The book he gave me is interesting.
    Tā sòng gěi wǒ de shū hěn yǒu yì si. · The book he gave me is interesting.
  10. Which pinyin reads “会说中文的司机来了。”?
    1. Zuò zài ménkǒu de rén shì lǎo shī.
    2. Nǐ yào zhǎo de diàn zài nàbiān.
    3. Huì shuō zhōng wén de sī jī lái le.
    Show answer · 查看答案Huì shuō zhōng wén de sī jī lái le.
    会说中文的司机来了。 means “The driver who speaks Chinese has arrived.”
3. 用“地”说明动作方式 — The manner marker de before a verb
description + 地 + verb

地 (de) attaches a manner description before the action. In ordinary writing, many short adverbs appear without it.

Notice: Contrast 慢慢地说 with 说得慢: before-action manner versus after-verb evaluation.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
请慢慢地说。
Qǐng mànmàn de shuō.
Please speak slowly.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
她轻轻地关门。
Tā qīng qīng de guān mén.
She closes the door gently.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
孩子认真地听。
Hái zi rèn zhēn de tīng.
The child listens carefully.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
请慢慢地走。
Qǐng màn màn de zǒu.
Please walk slowly.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
他高兴地笑了。
Tā gāo xìng de xiào le.
He laughed happily.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
老师清楚地解释规则。
Lǎo shī qīng chu de jiě shì guī zé.
The teacher clearly explains the rule.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我们安静地等车。
Wǒ men ān jìng de děng chē.
We wait quietly for the vehicle.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
她小心地打开盒子。
Tā xiǎo xīn de dǎ kāi hézi.
She carefully opens the box.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
他悄悄地走进房间。
Tā qiāoqiāo de zǒu jìn fáng jiān.
He quietly enters the room.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
请仔细地看地图。
Qǐng zǐxì de kàn dì tú.
Please look at the map carefully.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which particle introduces manner before the verb?
    1. 的
    2. 得
    3. 地
    Show answer · 查看答案地
    地 (de) attaches a manner description before the action. In ordinary writing, many short adverbs appear without it.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “She closes the door gently.”?
    1. 她轻轻地关门。
    2. 他高兴地笑了。
    3. 她小心地打开盒子。
    Show answer · 查看答案她轻轻地关门。
    她轻轻地关门。 · Tā qīng qīng de guān mén.
  3. In this lesson, what does “孩子认真地听。” mean?
    1. He quietly enters the room.
    2. The child listens carefully.
    3. The teacher clearly explains the rule.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child listens carefully.
    Hái zi rèn zhēn de tīng. · The child listens carefully.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please walk slowly.”?
    1. 我们安静地等车。
    2. 请仔细地看地图。
    3. 请慢慢地走。
    Show answer · 查看答案请慢慢地走。
    请慢慢地走。 · Qǐng màn màn de zǒu.
  5. In this lesson, what does “他高兴地笑了。” mean?
    1. He laughed happily.
    2. She carefully opens the box.
    3. Please speak slowly.
    Show answer · 查看答案He laughed happily.
    Tā gāo xìng de xiào le. · He laughed happily.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The teacher clearly explains the rule.”?
    1. 她轻轻地关门。
    2. 老师清楚地解释规则。
    3. 他悄悄地走进房间。
    Show answer · 查看答案老师清楚地解释规则。
    老师清楚地解释规则。 · Lǎo shī qīng chu de jiě shì guī zé.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我们安静地等车。” mean?
    1. Please look at the map carefully.
    2. The child listens carefully.
    3. We wait quietly for the vehicle.
    Show answer · 查看答案We wait quietly for the vehicle.
    Wǒ men ān jìng de děng chē. · We wait quietly for the vehicle.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “She carefully opens the box.”?
    1. 她小心地打开盒子。
    2. 请慢慢地说。
    3. 请慢慢地走。
    Show answer · 查看答案她小心地打开盒子。
    她小心地打开盒子。 · Tā xiǎo xīn de dǎ kāi hézi.
  9. In this lesson, what does “他悄悄地走进房间。” mean?
    1. He laughed happily.
    2. He quietly enters the room.
    3. She closes the door gently.
    Show answer · 查看答案He quietly enters the room.
    Tā qiāoqiāo de zǒu jìn fáng jiān. · He quietly enters the room.
  10. Which pinyin reads “请仔细地看地图。”?
    1. Hái zi rèn zhēn de tīng.
    2. Lǎo shī qīng chu de jiě shì guī zé.
    3. Qǐng zǐxì de kàn dì tú.
    Show answer · 查看答案Qǐng zǐxì de kàn dì tú.
    请仔细地看地图。 means “Please look at the map carefully.”
4. 动词重叠 — Verb reduplication
verb + verb / verb + 一 + verb

Repeat a verb for a brief, casual, or tentative action, often softening a suggestion or request.

Notice: 看一看 and 看看 are common; this does not mark tense.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
让我看看。
Ràng wǒ kànkan.
Let me take a look.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
你尝尝这个菜。
Nǐ cháng cháng zhè ge cài.
Try this dish.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我们出去走走。
Wǒ men chū qù zǒu zǒu.
Let's go out for a little walk.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
请等一等。
Qǐng děng yì děng.
Please wait a moment.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我想问问老师。
Wǒ xiǎng wèn wèn lǎo shī.
I want to ask the teacher.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
你看看这张地图。
Nǐ kàn kàn zhè zhāng dì tú.
Take a look at this map.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
孩子摸摸小猫。
Hái zi mō mō xiǎo māo.
The child pets the kitten a bit.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
先试一试这件衣服。
Xiān shì yí shì zhè jiàn yī fu.
Try on this piece of clothing first.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
让他想想。
Ràng tā xiǎng xiǎng.
Let him think it over.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我们聊聊明天的计划。
Wǒ men liáo liáo míng tiān de jì huà.
Let's talk a bit about tomorrow's plan.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 看看 suggest?
    1. a completed purchase
    2. two separate people looking
    3. a brief look
    Show answer · 查看答案a brief look
    Repeat a verb for a brief, casual, or tentative action, often softening a suggestion or request.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Try this dish.”?
    1. 你尝尝这个菜。
    2. 我想问问老师。
    3. 先试一试这件衣服。
    Show answer · 查看答案你尝尝这个菜。
    你尝尝这个菜。 · Nǐ cháng cháng zhè ge cài.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我们出去走走。” mean?
    1. Let him think it over.
    2. Let's go out for a little walk.
    3. Take a look at this map.
    Show answer · 查看答案Let's go out for a little walk.
    Wǒ men chū qù zǒu zǒu. · Let's go out for a little walk.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please wait a moment.”?
    1. 孩子摸摸小猫。
    2. 我们聊聊明天的计划。
    3. 请等一等。
    Show answer · 查看答案请等一等。
    请等一等。 · Qǐng děng yì děng.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我想问问老师。” mean?
    1. I want to ask the teacher.
    2. Try on this piece of clothing first.
    3. Let me take a look.
    Show answer · 查看答案I want to ask the teacher.
    Wǒ xiǎng wèn wèn lǎo shī. · I want to ask the teacher.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Take a look at this map.”?
    1. 你尝尝这个菜。
    2. 你看看这张地图。
    3. 让他想想。
    Show answer · 查看答案你看看这张地图。
    你看看这张地图。 · Nǐ kàn kàn zhè zhāng dì tú.
  7. In this lesson, what does “孩子摸摸小猫。” mean?
    1. Let's talk a bit about tomorrow's plan.
    2. Let's go out for a little walk.
    3. The child pets the kitten a bit.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child pets the kitten a bit.
    Hái zi mō mō xiǎo māo. · The child pets the kitten a bit.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Try on this piece of clothing first.”?
    1. 先试一试这件衣服。
    2. 让我看看。
    3. 请等一等。
    Show answer · 查看答案先试一试这件衣服。
    先试一试这件衣服。 · Xiān shì yí shì zhè jiàn yī fu.
  9. In this lesson, what does “让他想想。” mean?
    1. I want to ask the teacher.
    2. Let him think it over.
    3. Try this dish.
    Show answer · 查看答案Let him think it over.
    Ràng tā xiǎng xiǎng. · Let him think it over.
  10. Which pinyin reads “我们聊聊明天的计划。”?
    1. Wǒ men chū qù zǒu zǒu.
    2. Nǐ kàn kàn zhè zhāng dì tú.
    3. Wǒ men liáo liáo míng tiān de jì huà.
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ men liáo liáo míng tiān de jì huà.
    我们聊聊明天的计划。 means “Let's talk a bit about tomorrow's plan.”
5. 形容词重叠 — Adjective reduplication
repeated adjective + 的

Some adjectives repeat to make descriptions vivid or warm; patterns vary by adjective.

Notice: Do not mechanically repeat every adjective; learn common forms.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
她穿着一件红红的外套。
Tā chuān zhe yí jiàn hónghóng de wàitào.
She is wearing a bright red coat.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
这碗汤热热的。
Zhè wǎn tāng rè rè de.
This bowl of soup is pleasantly hot.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
孩子的手小小的。
Hái zi de shǒu xiǎo xiǎo de.
The child's hands are tiny.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
她的头发长长的。
Tā de tóu fā cháng cháng de.
Her hair is long.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
天空蓝蓝的。
Tiān kōng lán lán de.
The sky is beautifully blue.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这个苹果甜甜的。
Zhè ge píng guǒ tián tián de.
This apple is pleasantly sweet.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
房间干干净净的。
Fáng jiān gāngānjìngjìng de.
The room is very clean.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
他的脸红红的。
Tā de liǎn hóng hóng de.
His face is red.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
那只猫胖胖的。
Nà zhī māo pàng pàng de.
That cat is chubby.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
路上的灯亮亮的。
Lù shàng de dēng liàng liàng de.
The lights on the road are bright.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 红红的 describe?
    1. the wearer’s name
    2. an action’s duration
    3. the coat
    Show answer · 查看答案the coat
    Some adjectives repeat to make descriptions vivid or warm; patterns vary by adjective.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “This bowl of soup is pleasantly hot.”?
    1. 这碗汤热热的。
    2. 天空蓝蓝的。
    3. 他的脸红红的。
    Show answer · 查看答案这碗汤热热的。
    这碗汤热热的。 · Zhè wǎn tāng rè rè de.
  3. In this lesson, what does “孩子的手小小的。” mean?
    1. That cat is chubby.
    2. The child's hands are tiny.
    3. This apple is pleasantly sweet.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child's hands are tiny.
    Hái zi de shǒu xiǎo xiǎo de. · The child's hands are tiny.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Her hair is long.”?
    1. 房间干干净净的。
    2. 路上的灯亮亮的。
    3. 她的头发长长的。
    Show answer · 查看答案她的头发长长的。
    她的头发长长的。 · Tā de tóu fā cháng cháng de.
  5. In this lesson, what does “天空蓝蓝的。” mean?
    1. The sky is beautifully blue.
    2. His face is red.
    3. She is wearing a bright red coat.
    Show answer · 查看答案The sky is beautifully blue.
    Tiān kōng lán lán de. · The sky is beautifully blue.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “This apple is pleasantly sweet.”?
    1. 这碗汤热热的。
    2. 这个苹果甜甜的。
    3. 那只猫胖胖的。
    Show answer · 查看答案这个苹果甜甜的。
    这个苹果甜甜的。 · Zhè ge píng guǒ tián tián de.
  7. In this lesson, what does “房间干干净净的。” mean?
    1. The lights on the road are bright.
    2. The child's hands are tiny.
    3. The room is very clean.
    Show answer · 查看答案The room is very clean.
    Fáng jiān gāngānjìngjìng de. · The room is very clean.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “His face is red.”?
    1. 他的脸红红的。
    2. 她穿着一件红红的外套。
    3. 她的头发长长的。
    Show answer · 查看答案他的脸红红的。
    他的脸红红的。 · Tā de liǎn hóng hóng de.
  9. In this lesson, what does “那只猫胖胖的。” mean?
    1. The sky is beautifully blue.
    2. That cat is chubby.
    3. This bowl of soup is pleasantly hot.
    Show answer · 查看答案That cat is chubby.
    Nà zhī māo pàng pàng de. · That cat is chubby.
  10. Which pinyin reads “路上的灯亮亮的。”?
    1. Hái zi de shǒu xiǎo xiǎo de.
    2. Zhè ge píng guǒ tián tián de.
    3. Lù shàng de dēng liàng liàng de.
    Show answer · 查看答案Lù shàng de dēng liàng liàng de.
    路上的灯亮亮的。 means “The lights on the road are bright.”
6. “的、地、得”的区别 — The three de particles
的 before noun / 地 before verb / 得 after verb

All three commonly sound de but have different written roles: 的 attaches noun modifiers, 地 attaches manner, 得 introduces a complement after a verb.

Notice: In spontaneous speech some phrasing omits 地; in writing the distinction helps reading.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
她认真地写字，写得很好。
Tā rènzhēn de xiě zì, xiě de hěn hǎo.
She writes carefully and writes well.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
这是我的包。
Zhè shì wǒ de bāo.
This is my bag.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
她慢慢地走。
Tā màn màn de zǒu.
She walks slowly.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
他写得很好。
Tā xiě de hěn hǎo.
He writes very well.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我昨天买的书到了。
Wǒ zuó tiān mǎi de shū dào le.
The book I bought yesterday arrived.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
孩子高兴地跳起来。
Hái zi gāo xìng de tiào qǐlai.
The child jumps up happily.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
你说得很清楚。
Nǐ shuō de hěn qīng chu.
You explained it very clearly.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
那位老师的课很有趣。
Nà wèi lǎo shī de kè hěn yǒu qù.
That teacher's class is interesting.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
请认真地看。
Qǐng rèn zhēn de kàn.
Please look carefully.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
这杯茶泡得太浓了。
Zhè bēi chá pào de tài nóng le.
This tea was brewed too strong.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which de follows the verb 写?
    1. 的
    2. 地
    3. 得
    Show answer · 查看答案得
    All three commonly sound de but have different written roles: 的 attaches noun modifiers, 地 attaches manner, 得 introduces a complement after a verb.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “This is my bag.”?
    1. 这是我的包。
    2. 我昨天买的书到了。
    3. 那位老师的课很有趣。
    Show answer · 查看答案这是我的包。
    这是我的包。 · Zhè shì wǒ de bāo.
  3. In this lesson, what does “她慢慢地走。” mean?
    1. Please look carefully.
    2. She walks slowly.
    3. The child jumps up happily.
    Show answer · 查看答案She walks slowly.
    Tā màn màn de zǒu. · She walks slowly.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “He writes very well.”?
    1. 你说得很清楚。
    2. 这杯茶泡得太浓了。
    3. 他写得很好。
    Show answer · 查看答案他写得很好。
    他写得很好。 · Tā xiě de hěn hǎo.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我昨天买的书到了。” mean?
    1. The book I bought yesterday arrived.
    2. That teacher's class is interesting.
    3. She writes carefully and writes well.
    Show answer · 查看答案The book I bought yesterday arrived.
    Wǒ zuó tiān mǎi de shū dào le. · The book I bought yesterday arrived.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The child jumps up happily.”?
    1. 这是我的包。
    2. 孩子高兴地跳起来。
    3. 请认真地看。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子高兴地跳起来。
    孩子高兴地跳起来。 · Hái zi gāo xìng de tiào qǐlai.
  7. In this lesson, what does “你说得很清楚。” mean?
    1. This tea was brewed too strong.
    2. She walks slowly.
    3. You explained it very clearly.
    Show answer · 查看答案You explained it very clearly.
    Nǐ shuō de hěn qīng chu. · You explained it very clearly.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “That teacher's class is interesting.”?
    1. 那位老师的课很有趣。
    2. 她认真地写字，写得很好。
    3. 他写得很好。
    Show answer · 查看答案那位老师的课很有趣。
    那位老师的课很有趣。 · Nà wèi lǎo shī de kè hěn yǒu qù.
  9. In this lesson, what does “请认真地看。” mean?
    1. The book I bought yesterday arrived.
    2. Please look carefully.
    3. This is my bag.
    Show answer · 查看答案Please look carefully.
    Qǐng rèn zhēn de kàn. · Please look carefully.
  10. Which pinyin reads “这杯茶泡得太浓了。”?
    1. Tā màn màn de zǒu.
    2. Hái zi gāo xìng de tiào qǐlai.
    3. Zhè bēi chá pào de tài nóng le.
    Show answer · 查看答案Zhè bēi chá pào de tài nóng le.
    这杯茶泡得太浓了。 means “This tea was brewed too strong.”
MODULE 09

比较与强调 — Comparison & focus

Compare things and spotlight the part that matters.

1. 用“比”比较 — Comparing with bǐ (“than”)
A 比 B + adjective

Put the item being described first and the reference after 比. A degree word can follow the adjective.

Notice: Avoid 是 before a simple comparative adjective.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
今天比昨天冷。
Jīntiān bǐ zuótiān lěng.
Today is colder than yesterday.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
这杯茶比那杯热。
Zhè bēi chá bǐ nà bēi rè.
This cup of tea is hotter than that one.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我比他高。
Wǒ bǐ tā gāo.
I am taller than him.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
坐地铁比开车快。
Zuò dì tiě bǐ kāi chē kuài.
Taking the subway is faster than driving.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
今天比昨天忙。
Jīn tiān bǐ zuó tiān máng.
Today is busier than yesterday.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这个房间比那个大。
Zhè ge fáng jiān bǐ nà ge dà.
This room is bigger than that one.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
她做饭比我做得好。
Tā zuò fàn bǐ wǒ zuò de hǎo.
She cooks better than I do.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
这里的水果比超市便宜。
Zhè lǐ de shuǐ guǒ bǐ chāo shì pián yi.
The fruit here is cheaper than at the supermarket.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
这条路比那条短。
Zhè tiáo lù bǐ nà tiáo duǎn.
This road is shorter than that one.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
今年比去年冷。
Jīn nián bǐ qù nián lěng.
This year is colder than last year.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which is colder?
    1. the same temperature
    2. today
    3. yesterday
    Show answer · 查看答案today
    Put the item being described first and the reference after 比. A degree word can follow the adjective.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “This cup of tea is hotter than that one.”?
    1. 今天比昨天忙。
    2. 这里的水果比超市便宜。
    3. 这杯茶比那杯热。
    Show answer · 查看答案这杯茶比那杯热。
    这杯茶比那杯热。 · Zhè bēi chá bǐ nà bēi rè.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我比他高。” mean?
    1. I am taller than him.
    2. This room is bigger than that one.
    3. This road is shorter than that one.
    Show answer · 查看答案I am taller than him.
    Wǒ bǐ tā gāo. · I am taller than him.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Taking the subway is faster than driving.”?
    1. 今年比去年冷。
    2. 坐地铁比开车快。
    3. 她做饭比我做得好。
    Show answer · 查看答案坐地铁比开车快。
    坐地铁比开车快。 · Zuò dì tiě bǐ kāi chē kuài.
  5. In this lesson, what does “今天比昨天忙。” mean?
    1. The fruit here is cheaper than at the supermarket.
    2. Today is colder than yesterday.
    3. Today is busier than yesterday.
    Show answer · 查看答案Today is busier than yesterday.
    Jīn tiān bǐ zuó tiān máng. · Today is busier than yesterday.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “This room is bigger than that one.”?
    1. 这个房间比那个大。
    2. 这条路比那条短。
    3. 这杯茶比那杯热。
    Show answer · 查看答案这个房间比那个大。
    这个房间比那个大。 · Zhè ge fáng jiān bǐ nà ge dà.
  7. In this lesson, what does “她做饭比我做得好。” mean?
    1. I am taller than him.
    2. She cooks better than I do.
    3. This year is colder than last year.
    Show answer · 查看答案She cooks better than I do.
    Tā zuò fàn bǐ wǒ zuò de hǎo. · She cooks better than I do.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The fruit here is cheaper than at the supermarket.”?
    1. 今天比昨天冷。
    2. 坐地铁比开车快。
    3. 这里的水果比超市便宜。
    Show answer · 查看答案这里的水果比超市便宜。
    这里的水果比超市便宜。 · Zhè lǐ de shuǐ guǒ bǐ chāo shì pián yi.
  9. In this lesson, what does “这条路比那条短。” mean?
    1. This road is shorter than that one.
    2. This cup of tea is hotter than that one.
    3. Today is busier than yesterday.
    Show answer · 查看答案This road is shorter than that one.
    Zhè tiáo lù bǐ nà tiáo duǎn. · This road is shorter than that one.
  10. Which pinyin reads “今年比去年冷。”?
    1. Zhè ge fáng jiān bǐ nà ge dà.
    2. Jīn nián bǐ qù nián lěng.
    3. Wǒ bǐ tā gāo.
    Show answer · 查看答案Jīn nián bǐ qù nián lěng.
    今年比去年冷。 means “This year is colder than last year.”
2. 没有……那么…… — Not as…as
A 没有 B 那么 + adjective

Use 没有…那么… to say A is not as adjective as B.

Notice: This is a comparison, not a claim that A does not exist.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
这里没有那里贵。
Zhèlǐ méiyǒu nàlǐ guì.
It is not as expensive here as there.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
这杯茶没有那杯热。
Zhè bēi chá méi yǒu nà bēi rè.
This tea is not as hot as that tea.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我没有他高。
Wǒ méi yǒu tā gāo.
I am not as tall as him.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
今天没有昨天冷。
Jīn tiān méi yǒu zuó tiān lěng.
Today is not as cold as yesterday.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
这家店没有那家大。
Zhè jiā diàn méi yǒu nà jiā dà.
This shop is not as big as that one.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
坐车没有走路慢。
Zuò chē méi yǒu zǒu lù màn.
Riding is not as slow as walking.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我的中文没有她的好。
Wǒ de zhōng wén méi yǒu tā de hǎo.
My Chinese is not as good as hers.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
这条路没有那条远。
Zhè tiáo lù méi yǒu nà tiáo yuǎn.
This road is not as long as that one.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
这里没有市中心那么吵。
Zhè lǐ méi yǒu shì zhōng xīn nà me chǎo.
It is not as noisy here as downtown.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
这杯咖啡没有你想的那么苦。
Zhè bēi kā fēi méi yǒu nǐ xiǎng de nà me kǔ.
This coffee is not as bitter as you think.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What is compared?
    1. the number of shops
    2. prices here and there
    3. the existence of places
    Show answer · 查看答案prices here and there
    Use 没有…那么… to say A is not as adjective as B.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “This tea is not as hot as that tea.”?
    1. 这家店没有那家大。
    2. 这条路没有那条远。
    3. 这杯茶没有那杯热。
    Show answer · 查看答案这杯茶没有那杯热。
    这杯茶没有那杯热。 · Zhè bēi chá méi yǒu nà bēi rè.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我没有他高。” mean?
    1. I am not as tall as him.
    2. Riding is not as slow as walking.
    3. It is not as noisy here as downtown.
    Show answer · 查看答案I am not as tall as him.
    Wǒ méi yǒu tā gāo. · I am not as tall as him.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Today is not as cold as yesterday.”?
    1. 这杯咖啡没有你想的那么苦。
    2. 今天没有昨天冷。
    3. 我的中文没有她的好。
    Show answer · 查看答案今天没有昨天冷。
    今天没有昨天冷。 · Jīn tiān méi yǒu zuó tiān lěng.
  5. In this lesson, what does “这家店没有那家大。” mean?
    1. This road is not as long as that one.
    2. It is not as expensive here as there.
    3. This shop is not as big as that one.
    Show answer · 查看答案This shop is not as big as that one.
    Zhè jiā diàn méi yǒu nà jiā dà. · This shop is not as big as that one.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Riding is not as slow as walking.”?
    1. 坐车没有走路慢。
    2. 这里没有市中心那么吵。
    3. 这杯茶没有那杯热。
    Show answer · 查看答案坐车没有走路慢。
    坐车没有走路慢。 · Zuò chē méi yǒu zǒu lù màn.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我的中文没有她的好。” mean?
    1. I am not as tall as him.
    2. My Chinese is not as good as hers.
    3. This coffee is not as bitter as you think.
    Show answer · 查看答案My Chinese is not as good as hers.
    Wǒ de zhōng wén méi yǒu tā de hǎo. · My Chinese is not as good as hers.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “This road is not as long as that one.”?
    1. 这里没有那里贵。
    2. 今天没有昨天冷。
    3. 这条路没有那条远。
    Show answer · 查看答案这条路没有那条远。
    这条路没有那条远。 · Zhè tiáo lù méi yǒu nà tiáo yuǎn.
  9. In this lesson, what does “这里没有市中心那么吵。” mean?
    1. It is not as noisy here as downtown.
    2. This tea is not as hot as that tea.
    3. This shop is not as big as that one.
    Show answer · 查看答案It is not as noisy here as downtown.
    Zhè lǐ méi yǒu shì zhōng xīn nà me chǎo. · It is not as noisy here as downtown.
  10. Which pinyin reads “这杯咖啡没有你想的那么苦。”?
    1. Zuò chē méi yǒu zǒu lù màn.
    2. Zhè bēi kā fēi méi yǒu nǐ xiǎng de nà me kǔ.
    3. Wǒ méi yǒu tā gāo.
    Show answer · 查看答案Zhè bēi kā fēi méi yǒu nǐ xiǎng de nà me kǔ.
    这杯咖啡没有你想的那么苦。 means “This coffee is not as bitter as you think.”
3. 一样、更、最 — As…as, more, most
跟…一样 / 更 / 最

跟…一样 marks equal degree; 更 raises the degree; 最 marks the highest degree in context.

Notice: 一样 usually follows the comparison partner.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
这家店跟那家一样便宜。
Zhè jiā diàn gēn nà jiā yíyàng piányi.
This shop is as cheap as that one.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
今天跟昨天一样冷。
Jīn tiān gēn zuó tiān yíyàng lěng.
Today is as cold as yesterday.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我和她一样高。
Wǒ hé tā yíyàng gāo.
I am as tall as her.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
这条路更近。
Zhè tiáo lù gèng jìn.
This road is closer.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
这家店的菜最好吃。
Zhè jiā diàn de cài zuì hǎo chī.
This shop's food tastes the best.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
你再说慢一点就更好了。
Nǐ zài shuō màn yī diǎn jiù gèng hǎo le.
It would be better if you spoke a little slower.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
这两个房间一样大。
Zhè liǎng ge fáng jiān yíyàng dà.
These two rooms are the same size.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
他是我们班最高的。
Tā shì wǒ men bān zuì gāo de.
He is the tallest in our class.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
我最喜欢这本书。
Wǒ zuì xǐ huan zhè běn shū.
I like this book the most.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
坐地铁比坐车更方便。
Zuò dì tiě bǐ zuò chē gèng fāng biàn.
The subway is even more convenient than riding in a car.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which expresses equal degree?
    1. 最
    2. 跟…一样
    3. 比…更
    Show answer · 查看答案跟…一样
    跟…一样 marks equal degree; 更 raises the degree; 最 marks the highest degree in context.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Today is as cold as yesterday.”?
    1. 这家店的菜最好吃。
    2. 他是我们班最高的。
    3. 今天跟昨天一样冷。
    Show answer · 查看答案今天跟昨天一样冷。
    今天跟昨天一样冷。 · Jīn tiān gēn zuó tiān yíyàng lěng.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我和她一样高。” mean?
    1. I am as tall as her.
    2. It would be better if you spoke a little slower.
    3. I like this book the most.
    Show answer · 查看答案I am as tall as her.
    Wǒ hé tā yíyàng gāo. · I am as tall as her.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “This road is closer.”?
    1. 坐地铁比坐车更方便。
    2. 这条路更近。
    3. 这两个房间一样大。
    Show answer · 查看答案这条路更近。
    这条路更近。 · Zhè tiáo lù gèng jìn.
  5. In this lesson, what does “这家店的菜最好吃。” mean?
    1. He is the tallest in our class.
    2. This shop is as cheap as that one.
    3. This shop's food tastes the best.
    Show answer · 查看答案This shop's food tastes the best.
    Zhè jiā diàn de cài zuì hǎo chī. · This shop's food tastes the best.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “It would be better if you spoke a little slower.”?
    1. 你再说慢一点就更好了。
    2. 我最喜欢这本书。
    3. 今天跟昨天一样冷。
    Show answer · 查看答案你再说慢一点就更好了。
    你再说慢一点就更好了。 · Nǐ zài shuō màn yī diǎn jiù gèng hǎo le.
  7. In this lesson, what does “这两个房间一样大。” mean?
    1. I am as tall as her.
    2. These two rooms are the same size.
    3. The subway is even more convenient than riding in a car.
    Show answer · 查看答案These two rooms are the same size.
    Zhè liǎng ge fáng jiān yíyàng dà. · These two rooms are the same size.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “He is the tallest in our class.”?
    1. 这家店跟那家一样便宜。
    2. 这条路更近。
    3. 他是我们班最高的。
    Show answer · 查看答案他是我们班最高的。
    他是我们班最高的。 · Tā shì wǒ men bān zuì gāo de.
  9. In this lesson, what does “我最喜欢这本书。” mean?
    1. I like this book the most.
    2. Today is as cold as yesterday.
    3. This shop's food tastes the best.
    Show answer · 查看答案I like this book the most.
    Wǒ zuì xǐ huan zhè běn shū. · I like this book the most.
  10. Which pinyin reads “坐地铁比坐车更方便。”?
    1. Nǐ zài shuō màn yī diǎn jiù gèng hǎo le.
    2. Zuò dì tiě bǐ zuò chē gèng fāng biàn.
    3. Wǒ hé tā yíyàng gāo.
    Show answer · 查看答案Zuò dì tiě bǐ zuò chē gèng fāng biàn.
    坐地铁比坐车更方便。 means “The subway is even more convenient than riding in a car.”
4. 用“是……的”强调细节 — Highlighting a known event’s detail
是 + focused detail + verb + 的

For a known, usually completed event, 是…的 highlights when, where, how, or by whom it happened.

Notice: This structure does not simply announce that the event occurred.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我是昨天到的。
Wǒ shì zuótiān dào de.
It was yesterday that I arrived.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
她是坐地铁来的。
Tā shì zuò dì tiě lái de.
She came by subway.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我们是上周认识的。
Wǒ men shì shàng zhōu rèn shi de.
We met last week.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
这本书是在哪儿买的？
Zhè běn shū shì zài nǎr mǎi de?
Where did you buy this book?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
这些菜是妈妈做的。
Zhè xiē cài shì mā ma zuò de.
Mom made these dishes.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我是跟朋友一起来的。
Wǒ shì gēn péng you yī qǐ lái de.
I came with a friend.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
他是昨晚到的。
Tā shì zuó wǎn dào de.
He arrived last night.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
这个字是谁写的？
Zhè ge zì shì shéi xiě de?
Who wrote this character?
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
票是在网上买的。
Piào shì zài wǎng shàng mǎi de.
The tickets were bought online.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
你们是怎么找到这里的？
Nǐ men shì zěn me zhǎo dào zhè lǐ de?
How did you find this place?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What detail is highlighted?
    1. what I own
    2. when I arrived
    3. whether I arrived at all
    Show answer · 查看答案when I arrived
    For a known, usually completed event, 是…的 highlights when, where, how, or by whom it happened.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “She came by subway.”?
    1. 这些菜是妈妈做的。
    2. 这个字是谁写的？
    3. 她是坐地铁来的。
    Show answer · 查看答案她是坐地铁来的。
    她是坐地铁来的。 · Tā shì zuò dì tiě lái de.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我们是上周认识的。” mean?
    1. We met last week.
    2. I came with a friend.
    3. The tickets were bought online.
    Show answer · 查看答案We met last week.
    Wǒ men shì shàng zhōu rèn shi de. · We met last week.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Where did you buy this book?”?
    1. 你们是怎么找到这里的？
    2. 这本书是在哪儿买的？
    3. 他是昨晚到的。
    Show answer · 查看答案这本书是在哪儿买的？
    这本书是在哪儿买的？ · Zhè běn shū shì zài nǎr mǎi de?
  5. In this lesson, what does “这些菜是妈妈做的。” mean?
    1. Who wrote this character?
    2. It was yesterday that I arrived.
    3. Mom made these dishes.
    Show answer · 查看答案Mom made these dishes.
    Zhè xiē cài shì mā ma zuò de. · Mom made these dishes.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “I came with a friend.”?
    1. 我是跟朋友一起来的。
    2. 票是在网上买的。
    3. 她是坐地铁来的。
    Show answer · 查看答案我是跟朋友一起来的。
    我是跟朋友一起来的。 · Wǒ shì gēn péng you yī qǐ lái de.
  7. In this lesson, what does “他是昨晚到的。” mean?
    1. We met last week.
    2. He arrived last night.
    3. How did you find this place?
    Show answer · 查看答案He arrived last night.
    Tā shì zuó wǎn dào de. · He arrived last night.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Who wrote this character?”?
    1. 我是昨天到的。
    2. 这本书是在哪儿买的？
    3. 这个字是谁写的？
    Show answer · 查看答案这个字是谁写的？
    这个字是谁写的？ · Zhè ge zì shì shéi xiě de?
  9. In this lesson, what does “票是在网上买的。” mean?
    1. The tickets were bought online.
    2. She came by subway.
    3. Mom made these dishes.
    Show answer · 查看答案The tickets were bought online.
    Piào shì zài wǎng shàng mǎi de. · The tickets were bought online.
  10. Which pinyin reads “你们是怎么找到这里的？”?
    1. Wǒ shì gēn péng you yī qǐ lái de.
    2. Nǐ men shì zěn me zhǎo dào zhè lǐ de?
    3. Wǒ men shì shàng zhōu rèn shi de.
    Show answer · 查看答案Nǐ men shì zěn me zhǎo dào zhè lǐ de?
    你们是怎么找到这里的？ means “How did you find this place?”
5. 就与才 — Early versus later than expected
就 / 才 before verb

就 often marks earlier, easier, or expected progression; 才 often marks later or only then. Their nuance depends on context.

Notice: With a clock time, 八点就来 contrasts with 八点才来.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
他八点才来。
Tā bā diǎn cái lái.
He did not come until eight.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我六点就到了。
Wǒ liù diǎn jiù dào le.
I arrived as early as six.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
他九点才起床。
Tā jiǔ diǎn cái qǐ chuáng.
He did not get up until nine.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
我们走了十分钟就到了。
Wǒ men zǒu le shí fēn zhōng jiù dào le.
We got there after only ten minutes of walking.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
她昨天才知道。
Tā zuó tiān cái zhī dào.
She only found out yesterday.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
你现在走就来得及。
Nǐ xiàn zài zǒu jiù lái de jí.
If you leave now, you will make it.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我等到晚上才收到消息。
Wǒ děng dào wǎn shang cái shōu dào xiāo xi.
I did not get the message until the evening.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
孩子一听就懂了。
Hái zi yì tīng jiù dǒng le.
The child understood as soon as they heard it.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
这家店八点就开门。
Zhè jiā diàn bā diǎn jiù kāi mén.
This shop opens as early as eight.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我学了三年才看懂这本书。
Wǒ xué le sān nián cái kàn dǒng zhè běn shū.
It took me three years of study to understand this book.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 才 suggest here?
    1. ongoing right now
    2. later than expected
    3. earlier than expected
    Show answer · 查看答案later than expected
    就 often marks earlier, easier, or expected progression; 才 often marks later or only then. Their nuance depends on context.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I arrived as early as six.”?
    1. 她昨天才知道。
    2. 孩子一听就懂了。
    3. 我六点就到了。
    Show answer · 查看答案我六点就到了。
    我六点就到了。 · Wǒ liù diǎn jiù dào le.
  3. In this lesson, what does “他九点才起床。” mean?
    1. He did not get up until nine.
    2. If you leave now, you will make it.
    3. This shop opens as early as eight.
    Show answer · 查看答案He did not get up until nine.
    Tā jiǔ diǎn cái qǐ chuáng. · He did not get up until nine.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “We got there after only ten minutes of walking.”?
    1. 我学了三年才看懂这本书。
    2. 我们走了十分钟就到了。
    3. 我等到晚上才收到消息。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们走了十分钟就到了。
    我们走了十分钟就到了。 · Wǒ men zǒu le shí fēn zhōng jiù dào le.
  5. In this lesson, what does “她昨天才知道。” mean?
    1. The child understood as soon as they heard it.
    2. He did not come until eight.
    3. She only found out yesterday.
    Show answer · 查看答案She only found out yesterday.
    Tā zuó tiān cái zhī dào. · She only found out yesterday.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “If you leave now, you will make it.”?
    1. 你现在走就来得及。
    2. 这家店八点就开门。
    3. 我六点就到了。
    Show answer · 查看答案你现在走就来得及。
    你现在走就来得及。 · Nǐ xiàn zài zǒu jiù lái de jí.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我等到晚上才收到消息。” mean?
    1. He did not get up until nine.
    2. I did not get the message until the evening.
    3. It took me three years of study to understand this book.
    Show answer · 查看答案I did not get the message until the evening.
    Wǒ děng dào wǎn shang cái shōu dào xiāo xi. · I did not get the message until the evening.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The child understood as soon as they heard it.”?
    1. 他八点才来。
    2. 我们走了十分钟就到了。
    3. 孩子一听就懂了。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子一听就懂了。
    孩子一听就懂了。 · Hái zi yì tīng jiù dǒng le.
  9. In this lesson, what does “这家店八点就开门。” mean?
    1. This shop opens as early as eight.
    2. I arrived as early as six.
    3. She only found out yesterday.
    Show answer · 查看答案This shop opens as early as eight.
    Zhè jiā diàn bā diǎn jiù kāi mén. · This shop opens as early as eight.
  10. Which pinyin reads “我学了三年才看懂这本书。”?
    1. Nǐ xiàn zài zǒu jiù lái de jí.
    2. Wǒ xué le sān nián cái kàn dǒng zhè běn shū.
    3. Tā jiǔ diǎn cái qǐ chuáng.
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ xué le sān nián cái kàn dǒng zhè běn shū.
    我学了三年才看懂这本书。 means “It took me three years of study to understand this book.”
6. 多多少、少多少 — More than and less than
比 + number + measure

After a comparison, a number plus measure can specify the gap. 多 and 少 can compare quantity as well.

Notice: Use an appropriate measure word or unit for what changes.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
她比我大两岁。
Tā bǐ wǒ dà liǎng suì.
She is two years older than me.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
她比我早到十分钟。
Tā bǐ wǒ zǎo dào shí fēn zhōng.
She arrived ten minutes before me.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
这条路比那条长两公里。
Zhè tiáo lù bǐ nà tiáo cháng liǎng gōng lǐ.
This road is two kilometers longer than that one.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
这杯咖啡比那杯贵五块钱。
Zhè bēi kā fēi bǐ nà bēi guì wǔ kuài qián.
This coffee costs five yuan more than that one.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
他比我高三厘米。
Tā bǐ wǒ gāo sān lí mǐ.
He is three centimeters taller than me.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我们比昨天多等了半小时。
Wǒ men bǐ zuó tiān duō děng le bàn xiǎo shí.
We waited half an hour longer than yesterday.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
这个房间比那个少一张床。
Zhè ge fáng jiān bǐ nà ge shǎo yì zhāng chuáng.
This room has one fewer bed than that one.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
火车比汽车快一个小时。
Huǒ chē bǐ qì chē kuài yí ge xiǎo shí.
The train is an hour faster than the car.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
她比我小两岁。
Tā bǐ wǒ xiǎo liǎng suì.
She is two years younger than me.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
今天下雨的时间比昨天少了半小时。
Jīn tiān xià yǔ de shí jiān bǐ zuó tiān shǎo le bàn xiǎo shí.
It rained for half an hour less today than yesterday.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 两岁 express?
    1. my birth date
    2. the age difference
    3. her total age
    Show answer · 查看答案the age difference
    After a comparison, a number plus measure can specify the gap. 多 and 少 can compare quantity as well.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “She arrived ten minutes before me.”?
    1. 他比我高三厘米。
    2. 火车比汽车快一个小时。
    3. 她比我早到十分钟。
    Show answer · 查看答案她比我早到十分钟。
    她比我早到十分钟。 · Tā bǐ wǒ zǎo dào shí fēn zhōng.
  3. In this lesson, what does “这条路比那条长两公里。” mean?
    1. This road is two kilometers longer than that one.
    2. We waited half an hour longer than yesterday.
    3. She is two years younger than me.
    Show answer · 查看答案This road is two kilometers longer than that one.
    Zhè tiáo lù bǐ nà tiáo cháng liǎng gōng lǐ. · This road is two kilometers longer than that one.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “This coffee costs five yuan more than that one.”?
    1. 今天下雨的时间比昨天少了半小时。
    2. 这杯咖啡比那杯贵五块钱。
    3. 这个房间比那个少一张床。
    Show answer · 查看答案这杯咖啡比那杯贵五块钱。
    这杯咖啡比那杯贵五块钱。 · Zhè bēi kā fēi bǐ nà bēi guì wǔ kuài qián.
  5. In this lesson, what does “他比我高三厘米。” mean?
    1. The train is an hour faster than the car.
    2. She is two years older than me.
    3. He is three centimeters taller than me.
    Show answer · 查看答案He is three centimeters taller than me.
    Tā bǐ wǒ gāo sān lí mǐ. · He is three centimeters taller than me.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “We waited half an hour longer than yesterday.”?
    1. 我们比昨天多等了半小时。
    2. 她比我小两岁。
    3. 她比我早到十分钟。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们比昨天多等了半小时。
    我们比昨天多等了半小时。 · Wǒ men bǐ zuó tiān duō děng le bàn xiǎo shí.
  7. In this lesson, what does “这个房间比那个少一张床。” mean?
    1. This road is two kilometers longer than that one.
    2. This room has one fewer bed than that one.
    3. It rained for half an hour less today than yesterday.
    Show answer · 查看答案This room has one fewer bed than that one.
    Zhè ge fáng jiān bǐ nà ge shǎo yì zhāng chuáng. · This room has one fewer bed than that one.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The train is an hour faster than the car.”?
    1. 她比我大两岁。
    2. 这杯咖啡比那杯贵五块钱。
    3. 火车比汽车快一个小时。
    Show answer · 查看答案火车比汽车快一个小时。
    火车比汽车快一个小时。 · Huǒ chē bǐ qì chē kuài yí ge xiǎo shí.
  9. In this lesson, what does “她比我小两岁。” mean?
    1. She is two years younger than me.
    2. She arrived ten minutes before me.
    3. He is three centimeters taller than me.
    Show answer · 查看答案She is two years younger than me.
    Tā bǐ wǒ xiǎo liǎng suì. · She is two years younger than me.
  10. Which pinyin reads “今天下雨的时间比昨天少了半小时。”?
    1. Wǒ men bǐ zuó tiān duō děng le bàn xiǎo shí.
    2. Jīn tiān xià yǔ de shí jiān bǐ zuó tiān shǎo le bàn xiǎo shí.
    3. Zhè tiáo lù bǐ nà tiáo cháng liǎng gōng lǐ.
    Show answer · 查看答案Jīn tiān xià yǔ de shí jiān bǐ zuó tiān shǎo le bàn xiǎo shí.
    今天下雨的时间比昨天少了半小时。 means “It rained for half an hour less today than yesterday.”
MODULE 10

连接想法 — Connecting ideas

Build reasons, conditions, contrasts, and simultaneous actions.

1. 因为……所以…… — Because and therefore
因为…所以…

因为 introduces a reason; 所以 introduces its consequence. Either part can be omitted when context is clear.

Notice: The reason normally comes before the outcome in this pattern.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
因为下雨，所以我们坐地铁。
Yīnwèi xià yǔ, suǒyǐ wǒmen zuò dìtiě.
Because it’s raining, we’re taking the subway.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
因为我饿了，所以先吃饭。
Yīn wèi wǒ è le, suǒ yǐ xiān chī fàn.
Because I am hungry, I will eat first.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
因为车晚点，所以我们要等。
Yīn wèi chē wǎn diǎn, suǒ yǐ wǒ men yào děng.
The vehicle is late, so we have to wait.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
因为他生病了，所以没上班。
Yīn wèi tā shēng bìng le, suǒ yǐ méi shàng bān.
He did not work because he was sick.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
因为这里太吵，所以我想换房间。
Yīn wèi zhè lǐ tài chǎo, suǒ yǐ wǒ xiǎng huàn fáng jiān.
It is too noisy here, so I want to change rooms.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
因为我没带钱，所以不能买票。
Yīn wèi wǒ méi dài qián, suǒ yǐ bù néng mǎi piào.
I cannot buy a ticket because I did not bring money.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
因为明天要早起，所以今晚早点睡。
Yīn wèi míng tiān yào zǎo qǐ, suǒ yǐ jīn wǎn zǎo diǎn shuì.
I will sleep early tonight because I need to get up early tomorrow.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
因为路很滑，所以走慢一点。
Yīn wèi lù hěn huá, suǒ yǐ zǒu màn yī diǎn.
The road is slippery, so walk a bit slower.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
因为她会中文，所以她帮我们问路。
Yīn wèi tā huì zhōng wén, suǒ yǐ tā bāng wǒ men wèn lù.
She speaks Chinese, so she helped us ask for directions.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
因为酒店满了，所以我们去了另一家。
Yīn wèi jiǔ diàn mǎn le, suǒ yǐ wǒ men qù le lìng yī jiā.
The hotel was full, so we went to another one.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which clause gives the reason?
    1. 因为下雨
    2. 所以我们坐地铁
    3. 我们
    Show answer · 查看答案因为下雨
    因为 introduces a reason; 所以 introduces its consequence. Either part can be omitted when context is clear.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Because I am hungry, I will eat first.”?
    1. 因为路很滑，所以走慢一点。
    2. 因为我饿了，所以先吃饭。
    3. 因为这里太吵，所以我想换房间。
    Show answer · 查看答案因为我饿了，所以先吃饭。
    因为我饿了，所以先吃饭。 · Yīn wèi wǒ è le, suǒ yǐ xiān chī fàn.
  3. In this lesson, what does “因为车晚点，所以我们要等。” mean?
    1. I cannot buy a ticket because I did not bring money.
    2. She speaks Chinese, so she helped us ask for directions.
    3. The vehicle is late, so we have to wait.
    Show answer · 查看答案The vehicle is late, so we have to wait.
    Yīn wèi chē wǎn diǎn, suǒ yǐ wǒ men yào děng. · The vehicle is late, so we have to wait.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “He did not work because he was sick.”?
    1. 因为他生病了，所以没上班。
    2. 因为明天要早起，所以今晚早点睡。
    3. 因为酒店满了，所以我们去了另一家。
    Show answer · 查看答案因为他生病了，所以没上班。
    因为他生病了，所以没上班。 · Yīn wèi tā shēng bìng le, suǒ yǐ méi shàng bān.
  5. In this lesson, what does “因为这里太吵，所以我想换房间。” mean?
    1. Because it’s raining, we’re taking the subway.
    2. It is too noisy here, so I want to change rooms.
    3. The road is slippery, so walk a bit slower.
    Show answer · 查看答案It is too noisy here, so I want to change rooms.
    Yīn wèi zhè lǐ tài chǎo, suǒ yǐ wǒ xiǎng huàn fáng jiān. · It is too noisy here, so I want to change rooms.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “I cannot buy a ticket because I did not bring money.”?
    1. 因为她会中文，所以她帮我们问路。
    2. 因为我饿了，所以先吃饭。
    3. 因为我没带钱，所以不能买票。
    Show answer · 查看答案因为我没带钱，所以不能买票。
    因为我没带钱，所以不能买票。 · Yīn wèi wǒ méi dài qián, suǒ yǐ bù néng mǎi piào.
  7. In this lesson, what does “因为明天要早起，所以今晚早点睡。” mean?
    1. I will sleep early tonight because I need to get up early tomorrow.
    2. The hotel was full, so we went to another one.
    3. The vehicle is late, so we have to wait.
    Show answer · 查看答案I will sleep early tonight because I need to get up early tomorrow.
    Yīn wèi míng tiān yào zǎo qǐ, suǒ yǐ jīn wǎn zǎo diǎn shuì. · I will sleep early tonight because I need to get up early tomorrow.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The road is slippery, so walk a bit slower.”?
    1. 因为他生病了，所以没上班。
    2. 因为路很滑，所以走慢一点。
    3. 因为下雨，所以我们坐地铁。
    Show answer · 查看答案因为路很滑，所以走慢一点。
    因为路很滑，所以走慢一点。 · Yīn wèi lù hěn huá, suǒ yǐ zǒu màn yī diǎn.
  9. In this lesson, what does “因为她会中文，所以她帮我们问路。” mean?
    1. Because I am hungry, I will eat first.
    2. It is too noisy here, so I want to change rooms.
    3. She speaks Chinese, so she helped us ask for directions.
    Show answer · 查看答案She speaks Chinese, so she helped us ask for directions.
    Yīn wèi tā huì zhōng wén, suǒ yǐ tā bāng wǒ men wèn lù. · She speaks Chinese, so she helped us ask for directions.
  10. Which pinyin reads “因为酒店满了，所以我们去了另一家。”?
    1. Yīn wèi jiǔ diàn mǎn le, suǒ yǐ wǒ men qù le lìng yī jiā.
    2. Yīn wèi chē wǎn diǎn, suǒ yǐ wǒ men yào děng.
    3. Yīn wèi wǒ méi dài qián, suǒ yǐ bù néng mǎi piào.
    Show answer · 查看答案Yīn wèi jiǔ diàn mǎn le, suǒ yǐ wǒ men qù le lìng yī jiā.
    因为酒店满了，所以我们去了另一家。 means “The hotel was full, so we went to another one.”
2. 虽然……但是…… — Although and but
虽然…但是…

虽然 introduces a concession and 但是 states the contrasting outcome. 可是 can also introduce the contrast.

Notice: A sentence may use both markers naturally.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
虽然很贵，但是很好吃。
Suīrán hěn guì, dànshì hěn hǎochī.
Although it’s expensive, it tastes good.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
虽然下雨，但是我们还是去了。
Suī rán xià yǔ, dàn shì wǒ men hái shi qù le.
Although it rained, we still went.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
虽然我不饿，但是想喝汤。
Suī rán wǒ bú è, dàn shì xiǎng hē tāng.
Although I am not hungry, I want some soup.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
这件衣服虽然贵，但是质量很好。
Zhè jiàn yī fu suī rán guì, dàn shì zhì liàng hěn hǎo.
Although this clothing is expensive, its quality is good.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
虽然他很累，但是还在工作。
Suī rán tā hěn lèi, dàn shì hái zài gōng zuò.
Although he is tired, he is still working.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
虽然路远，但是风景很美。
Suī rán lù yuǎn, dàn shì fēng jǐng hěn měi.
Although the road is long, the scenery is beautiful.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
虽然我没见过他，但是听说过他。
Suī rán wǒ méi jiàn guo tā, dàn shì tīng shuō guo tā.
Although I have not met him, I have heard of him.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
虽然这道题很难，但是我想试试。
Suī rán zhè dào tí hěn nán, dàn shì wǒ xiǎng shì shì.
Although this problem is hard, I want to try.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
虽然车快，但是坐地铁更方便。
Suī rán chē kuài, dàn shì zuò dì tiě gèng fāng biàn.
Although the car is fast, the subway is more convenient.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
虽然已经很晚了，但是这家店还开着。
Suī rán yǐ jīng hěn wǎn le, dàn shì zhè jiā diàn hái kāi zhe.
Although it is already late, this shop is still open.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which introduces the concession?
    1. 虽然
    2. 但是
    3. 很好吃
    Show answer · 查看答案虽然
    虽然 introduces a concession and 但是 states the contrasting outcome. 可是 can also introduce the contrast.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Although it rained, we still went.”?
    1. 虽然这道题很难，但是我想试试。
    2. 虽然下雨，但是我们还是去了。
    3. 虽然他很累，但是还在工作。
    Show answer · 查看答案虽然下雨，但是我们还是去了。
    虽然下雨，但是我们还是去了。 · Suī rán xià yǔ, dàn shì wǒ men hái shi qù le.
  3. In this lesson, what does “虽然我不饿，但是想喝汤。” mean?
    1. Although the road is long, the scenery is beautiful.
    2. Although the car is fast, the subway is more convenient.
    3. Although I am not hungry, I want some soup.
    Show answer · 查看答案Although I am not hungry, I want some soup.
    Suī rán wǒ bú è, dàn shì xiǎng hē tāng. · Although I am not hungry, I want some soup.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Although this clothing is expensive, its quality is good.”?
    1. 这件衣服虽然贵，但是质量很好。
    2. 虽然我没见过他，但是听说过他。
    3. 虽然已经很晚了，但是这家店还开着。
    Show answer · 查看答案这件衣服虽然贵，但是质量很好。
    这件衣服虽然贵，但是质量很好。 · Zhè jiàn yī fu suī rán guì, dàn shì zhì liàng hěn hǎo.
  5. In this lesson, what does “虽然他很累，但是还在工作。” mean?
    1. Although it’s expensive, it tastes good.
    2. Although he is tired, he is still working.
    3. Although this problem is hard, I want to try.
    Show answer · 查看答案Although he is tired, he is still working.
    Suī rán tā hěn lèi, dàn shì hái zài gōng zuò. · Although he is tired, he is still working.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Although the road is long, the scenery is beautiful.”?
    1. 虽然车快，但是坐地铁更方便。
    2. 虽然下雨，但是我们还是去了。
    3. 虽然路远，但是风景很美。
    Show answer · 查看答案虽然路远，但是风景很美。
    虽然路远，但是风景很美。 · Suī rán lù yuǎn, dàn shì fēng jǐng hěn měi.
  7. In this lesson, what does “虽然我没见过他，但是听说过他。” mean?
    1. Although I have not met him, I have heard of him.
    2. Although it is already late, this shop is still open.
    3. Although I am not hungry, I want some soup.
    Show answer · 查看答案Although I have not met him, I have heard of him.
    Suī rán wǒ méi jiàn guo tā, dàn shì tīng shuō guo tā. · Although I have not met him, I have heard of him.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Although this problem is hard, I want to try.”?
    1. 这件衣服虽然贵，但是质量很好。
    2. 虽然这道题很难，但是我想试试。
    3. 虽然很贵，但是很好吃。
    Show answer · 查看答案虽然这道题很难，但是我想试试。
    虽然这道题很难，但是我想试试。 · Suī rán zhè dào tí hěn nán, dàn shì wǒ xiǎng shì shì.
  9. In this lesson, what does “虽然车快，但是坐地铁更方便。” mean?
    1. Although it rained, we still went.
    2. Although he is tired, he is still working.
    3. Although the car is fast, the subway is more convenient.
    Show answer · 查看答案Although the car is fast, the subway is more convenient.
    Suī rán chē kuài, dàn shì zuò dì tiě gèng fāng biàn. · Although the car is fast, the subway is more convenient.
  10. Which pinyin reads “虽然已经很晚了，但是这家店还开着。”?
    1. Suī rán yǐ jīng hěn wǎn le, dàn shì zhè jiā diàn hái kāi zhe.
    2. Suī rán wǒ bú è, dàn shì xiǎng hē tāng.
    3. Suī rán lù yuǎn, dàn shì fēng jǐng hěn měi.
    Show answer · 查看答案Suī rán yǐ jīng hěn wǎn le, dàn shì zhè jiā diàn hái kāi zhe.
    虽然已经很晚了，但是这家店还开着。 means “Although it is already late, this shop is still open.”
3. 如果……就…… — If, then
如果…就…

如果 sets a condition; 就 introduces the likely result. 要是 is a common conversational alternative.

Notice: Do not use it to assert the condition definitely happened.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
如果你有时间，我们就去。
Rúguǒ nǐ yǒu shíjiān, wǒmen jiù qù.
If you have time, we’ll go.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
如果下雨，我们就坐车。
Rú guǒ xià yǔ, wǒ men jiù zuò chē.
If it rains, we will take a vehicle.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
如果你饿了，就先吃饭。
Rú guǒ nǐ è le, jiù xiān chī fàn.
If you are hungry, eat first.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
如果这张票无效，就去窗口问。
Rú guǒ zhè zhāng piào wú xiào, jiù qù chuāng kǒu wèn.
If this ticket is invalid, ask at the counter.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
如果有空，我们就去公园。
Rú guǒ yǒu kōng, wǒ men jiù qù gōng yuán.
If we have time, we will go to the park.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
如果你看不懂，就问老师。
Rú guǒ nǐ kàn bu dǒng, jiù wèn lǎo shī.
If you cannot understand it, ask the teacher.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
如果太贵，我就不买。
Rú guǒ tài guì, wǒ jiù bù mǎi.
If it is too expensive, I will not buy it.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
如果他来了，请给我打电话。
Rú guǒ tā lái le, qǐng gěi wǒ dǎ diàn huà.
If he comes, please call me.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
如果你走错了，就回来。
Rú guǒ nǐ zǒu cuò le, jiù huí lái.
If you take the wrong way, come back.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
如果明天很冷，就带外套。
Rú guǒ míng tiān hěn lěng, jiù dài wài tào.
If it is cold tomorrow, bring a coat.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 如果 introduce?
    1. a condition
    2. a completed result
    3. a classifier
    Show answer · 查看答案a condition
    如果 sets a condition; 就 introduces the likely result. 要是 is a common conversational alternative.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “If it rains, we will take a vehicle.”?
    1. 如果他来了，请给我打电话。
    2. 如果下雨，我们就坐车。
    3. 如果有空，我们就去公园。
    Show answer · 查看答案如果下雨，我们就坐车。
    如果下雨，我们就坐车。 · Rú guǒ xià yǔ, wǒ men jiù zuò chē.
  3. In this lesson, what does “如果你饿了，就先吃饭。” mean?
    1. If you cannot understand it, ask the teacher.
    2. If you take the wrong way, come back.
    3. If you are hungry, eat first.
    Show answer · 查看答案If you are hungry, eat first.
    Rú guǒ nǐ è le, jiù xiān chī fàn. · If you are hungry, eat first.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “If this ticket is invalid, ask at the counter.”?
    1. 如果这张票无效，就去窗口问。
    2. 如果太贵，我就不买。
    3. 如果明天很冷，就带外套。
    Show answer · 查看答案如果这张票无效，就去窗口问。
    如果这张票无效，就去窗口问。 · Rú guǒ zhè zhāng piào wú xiào, jiù qù chuāng kǒu wèn.
  5. In this lesson, what does “如果有空，我们就去公园。” mean?
    1. If you have time, we’ll go.
    2. If we have time, we will go to the park.
    3. If he comes, please call me.
    Show answer · 查看答案If we have time, we will go to the park.
    Rú guǒ yǒu kōng, wǒ men jiù qù gōng yuán. · If we have time, we will go to the park.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “If you cannot understand it, ask the teacher.”?
    1. 如果你走错了，就回来。
    2. 如果下雨，我们就坐车。
    3. 如果你看不懂，就问老师。
    Show answer · 查看答案如果你看不懂，就问老师。
    如果你看不懂，就问老师。 · Rú guǒ nǐ kàn bu dǒng, jiù wèn lǎo shī.
  7. In this lesson, what does “如果太贵，我就不买。” mean?
    1. If it is too expensive, I will not buy it.
    2. If it is cold tomorrow, bring a coat.
    3. If you are hungry, eat first.
    Show answer · 查看答案If it is too expensive, I will not buy it.
    Rú guǒ tài guì, wǒ jiù bù mǎi. · If it is too expensive, I will not buy it.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “If he comes, please call me.”?
    1. 如果这张票无效，就去窗口问。
    2. 如果他来了，请给我打电话。
    3. 如果你有时间，我们就去。
    Show answer · 查看答案如果他来了，请给我打电话。
    如果他来了，请给我打电话。 · Rú guǒ tā lái le, qǐng gěi wǒ dǎ diàn huà.
  9. In this lesson, what does “如果你走错了，就回来。” mean?
    1. If it rains, we will take a vehicle.
    2. If we have time, we will go to the park.
    3. If you take the wrong way, come back.
    Show answer · 查看答案If you take the wrong way, come back.
    Rú guǒ nǐ zǒu cuò le, jiù huí lái. · If you take the wrong way, come back.
  10. Which pinyin reads “如果明天很冷，就带外套。”?
    1. Rú guǒ míng tiān hěn lěng, jiù dài wài tào.
    2. Rú guǒ nǐ è le, jiù xiān chī fàn.
    3. Rú guǒ nǐ kàn bu dǒng, jiù wèn lǎo shī.
    Show answer · 查看答案Rú guǒ míng tiān hěn lěng, jiù dài wài tào.
    如果明天很冷，就带外套。 means “If it is cold tomorrow, bring a coat.”
4. 不但……而且…… — Not only, but also
不但…而且…

Use 不但 for the first point and 而且 for an added point. 也 often appears before the second predicate.

Notice: Keep the two clauses parallel where possible.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
她不但会说中文，而且会写汉字。
Tā bùdàn huì shuō Zhōngwén, érqiě huì xiě Hànzì.
She can not only speak Chinese but also write characters.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
他不但会开车，而且会修车。
Tā búdàn huì kāi chē, ér qiě huì xiū chē.
He can not only drive but also repair cars.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
这家店不但便宜，而且很干净。
Zhè jiā diàn búdàn pián yi, ér qiě hěn gān jìng.
This shop is not only cheap but also very clean.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
她不但会说中文，而且会读汉字。
Tā búdàn huì shuō zhōng wén, ér qiě huì dú hàn zì.
She can speak Chinese and read characters.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我们不但去了北京，而且去了上海。
Wǒ men búdàn qù le běi jīng, ér qiě qù le shàng hǎi.
We went not only to Beijing but also to Shanghai.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这个房间不但大，而且很安静。
Zhè ge fáng jiān búdàn dà, ér qiě hěn ān jìng.
This room is not only large but also quiet.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
孩子不但写完了作业，而且整理了书包。
Hái zi búdàn xiě wán le zuò yè, ér qiě zhěng lǐ le shū bāo.
The child finished homework and also packed the schoolbag.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
他不但帮我买票，而且送我到车站。
Tā búdàn bāng wǒ mǎi piào, ér qiě sòng wǒ dào chēzhàn.
He bought my ticket and also took me to the station.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
这道菜不但好吃，而且不贵。
Zhè dào cài búdàn hǎo chī, ér qiě bú guì.
This dish is tasty and not expensive.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
她不但记得名字，而且记得地址。
Tā búdàn jì de míng zi, ér qiě jì de dì zhǐ.
She remembers both the name and the address.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which introduces the added point?
    1. 而且
    2. 不但
    3. 汉字
    Show answer · 查看答案而且
    Use 不但 for the first point and 而且 for an added point. 也 often appears before the second predicate.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “He can not only drive but also repair cars.”?
    1. 他不但帮我买票，而且送我到车站。
    2. 他不但会开车，而且会修车。
    3. 我们不但去了北京，而且去了上海。
    Show answer · 查看答案他不但会开车，而且会修车。
    他不但会开车，而且会修车。 · Tā búdàn huì kāi chē, ér qiě huì xiū chē.
  3. In this lesson, what does “这家店不但便宜，而且很干净。” mean?
    1. This room is not only large but also quiet.
    2. This dish is tasty and not expensive.
    3. This shop is not only cheap but also very clean.
    Show answer · 查看答案This shop is not only cheap but also very clean.
    Zhè jiā diàn búdàn pián yi, ér qiě hěn gān jìng. · This shop is not only cheap but also very clean.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “She can speak Chinese and read characters.”?
    1. 她不但会说中文，而且会读汉字。
    2. 孩子不但写完了作业，而且整理了书包。
    3. 她不但记得名字，而且记得地址。
    Show answer · 查看答案她不但会说中文，而且会读汉字。
    她不但会说中文，而且会读汉字。 · Tā búdàn huì shuō zhōng wén, ér qiě huì dú hàn zì.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我们不但去了北京，而且去了上海。” mean?
    1. She can not only speak Chinese but also write characters.
    2. We went not only to Beijing but also to Shanghai.
    3. He bought my ticket and also took me to the station.
    Show answer · 查看答案We went not only to Beijing but also to Shanghai.
    Wǒ men búdàn qù le běi jīng, ér qiě qù le shàng hǎi. · We went not only to Beijing but also to Shanghai.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “This room is not only large but also quiet.”?
    1. 这道菜不但好吃，而且不贵。
    2. 他不但会开车，而且会修车。
    3. 这个房间不但大，而且很安静。
    Show answer · 查看答案这个房间不但大，而且很安静。
    这个房间不但大，而且很安静。 · Zhè ge fáng jiān búdàn dà, ér qiě hěn ān jìng.
  7. In this lesson, what does “孩子不但写完了作业，而且整理了书包。” mean?
    1. The child finished homework and also packed the schoolbag.
    2. She remembers both the name and the address.
    3. This shop is not only cheap but also very clean.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child finished homework and also packed the schoolbag.
    Hái zi búdàn xiě wán le zuò yè, ér qiě zhěng lǐ le shū bāo. · The child finished homework and also packed the schoolbag.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “He bought my ticket and also took me to the station.”?
    1. 她不但会说中文，而且会读汉字。
    2. 他不但帮我买票，而且送我到车站。
    3. 她不但会说中文，而且会写汉字。
    Show answer · 查看答案他不但帮我买票，而且送我到车站。
    他不但帮我买票，而且送我到车站。 · Tā búdàn bāng wǒ mǎi piào, ér qiě sòng wǒ dào chēzhàn.
  9. In this lesson, what does “这道菜不但好吃，而且不贵。” mean?
    1. He can not only drive but also repair cars.
    2. We went not only to Beijing but also to Shanghai.
    3. This dish is tasty and not expensive.
    Show answer · 查看答案This dish is tasty and not expensive.
    Zhè dào cài búdàn hǎo chī, ér qiě bú guì. · This dish is tasty and not expensive.
  10. Which pinyin reads “她不但记得名字，而且记得地址。”?
    1. Tā búdàn jì de míng zi, ér qiě jì de dì zhǐ.
    2. Zhè jiā diàn búdàn pián yi, ér qiě hěn gān jìng.
    3. Zhè ge fáng jiān búdàn dà, ér qiě hěn ān jìng.
    Show answer · 查看答案Tā búdàn jì de míng zi, ér qiě jì de dì zhǐ.
    她不但记得名字，而且记得地址。 means “She remembers both the name and the address.”
5. 一边……一边…… — Doing two things at once
一边…一边…

Repeat 一边 before two ongoing actions performed at the same time, usually by the same subject.

Notice: For two unrelated actions or subjects, a different connector may be better.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
他一边走一边说。
Tā yìbiān zǒu yìbiān shuō.
He speaks while walking.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
她一边做饭一边听音乐。
Tā yìbiān zuò fàn yìbiān tīng yīn yuè.
She listens to music while cooking.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我一边看地图一边走。
Wǒ yìbiān kàn dì tú yìbiān zǒu.
I walk while looking at the map.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
孩子一边笑一边跑。
Hái zi yìbiān xiào yìbiān pǎo.
The child runs while laughing.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
他一边等车一边打电话。
Tā yìbiān děng chē yìbiān dǎ diàn huà.
He makes a call while waiting for the vehicle.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
我们一边喝茶一边聊天。
Wǒ men yìbiān hē chá yìbiān liáo tiān.
We chat while drinking tea.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
她一边写字一边解释。
Tā yìbiān xiě zì yìbiān jiě shì.
She explains while writing characters.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我一边收拾行李一边听新闻。
Wǒ yìbiān shōushi xíng li yìbiān tīng xīn wén.
I listen to the news while packing.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
他一边开车一边唱歌。
Tā yìbiān kāi chē yìbiān chàng gē.
He sings while driving.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
孩子一边画画一边说故事。
Hái zi yìbiān huà huà yìbiān shuō gù shi.
The child tells a story while drawing.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What relationship does 一边…一边… show?
    1. simultaneous actions
    2. a condition and result
    3. a comparison
    Show answer · 查看答案simultaneous actions
    Repeat 一边 before two ongoing actions performed at the same time, usually by the same subject.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “She listens to music while cooking.”?
    1. 我一边收拾行李一边听新闻。
    2. 她一边做饭一边听音乐。
    3. 他一边等车一边打电话。
    Show answer · 查看答案她一边做饭一边听音乐。
    她一边做饭一边听音乐。 · Tā yìbiān zuò fàn yìbiān tīng yīn yuè.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我一边看地图一边走。” mean?
    1. We chat while drinking tea.
    2. He sings while driving.
    3. I walk while looking at the map.
    Show answer · 查看答案I walk while looking at the map.
    Wǒ yìbiān kàn dì tú yìbiān zǒu. · I walk while looking at the map.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “The child runs while laughing.”?
    1. 孩子一边笑一边跑。
    2. 她一边写字一边解释。
    3. 孩子一边画画一边说故事。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子一边笑一边跑。
    孩子一边笑一边跑。 · Hái zi yìbiān xiào yìbiān pǎo.
  5. In this lesson, what does “他一边等车一边打电话。” mean?
    1. He speaks while walking.
    2. He makes a call while waiting for the vehicle.
    3. I listen to the news while packing.
    Show answer · 查看答案He makes a call while waiting for the vehicle.
    Tā yìbiān děng chē yìbiān dǎ diàn huà. · He makes a call while waiting for the vehicle.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “We chat while drinking tea.”?
    1. 他一边开车一边唱歌。
    2. 她一边做饭一边听音乐。
    3. 我们一边喝茶一边聊天。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们一边喝茶一边聊天。
    我们一边喝茶一边聊天。 · Wǒ men yìbiān hē chá yìbiān liáo tiān.
  7. In this lesson, what does “她一边写字一边解释。” mean?
    1. She explains while writing characters.
    2. The child tells a story while drawing.
    3. I walk while looking at the map.
    Show answer · 查看答案She explains while writing characters.
    Tā yìbiān xiě zì yìbiān jiě shì. · She explains while writing characters.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “I listen to the news while packing.”?
    1. 孩子一边笑一边跑。
    2. 我一边收拾行李一边听新闻。
    3. 他一边走一边说。
    Show answer · 查看答案我一边收拾行李一边听新闻。
    我一边收拾行李一边听新闻。 · Wǒ yìbiān shōushi xíng li yìbiān tīng xīn wén.
  9. In this lesson, what does “他一边开车一边唱歌。” mean?
    1. She listens to music while cooking.
    2. He makes a call while waiting for the vehicle.
    3. He sings while driving.
    Show answer · 查看答案He sings while driving.
    Tā yìbiān kāi chē yìbiān chàng gē. · He sings while driving.
  10. Which pinyin reads “孩子一边画画一边说故事。”?
    1. Hái zi yìbiān huà huà yìbiān shuō gù shi.
    2. Wǒ yìbiān kàn dì tú yìbiān zǒu.
    3. Wǒ men yìbiān hē chá yìbiān liáo tiān.
    Show answer · 查看答案Hái zi yìbiān huà huà yìbiān shuō gù shi.
    孩子一边画画一边说故事。 means “The child tells a story while drawing.”
6. 既然……就…… — Since that is true
既然…就…

既然 starts from a condition treated as already established; 就 gives a response or conclusion.

Notice: Contrast 如果, which may leave the condition open.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
既然你到了，我们就开始吧。
Jìrán nǐ dào le, wǒmen jiù kāishǐ ba.
Since you’ve arrived, let’s begin.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
既然下雨了，我们就坐地铁吧。
Jìrán xià yǔ le, wǒ men jiù zuò dì tiě ba.
Since it is raining, let's take the subway.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
既然你饿了，就先吃吧。
Jìrán nǐ è le, jiù xiān chī ba.
Since you are hungry, eat first.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
既然票已经买了，就别担心。
Jìrán piào yǐ jīng mǎi le, jiù bié dān xīn.
Since the tickets are bought, do not worry.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
既然这条路关了，我们就换一条。
Jìrán zhè tiáo lù guān le, wǒ men jiù huàn yì tiáo.
Since this road is closed, we will take another.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
既然你会中文，就帮我问问吧。
Jìrán nǐ huì zhōng wén, jiù bāng wǒ wèn wèn ba.
Since you speak Chinese, help me ask.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
既然大家都到了，我们就出发。
Jìrán dà jiā dōu dào le, wǒ men jiù chū fā.
Since everyone is here, let's leave.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
既然店已经关门了，就明天再来。
Jìrán diàn yǐ jīng guān mén le, jiù míng tiān zài lái.
Since the shop is closed, come back tomorrow.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
既然你不喜欢咖啡，就点茶吧。
Jìrán nǐ bù xǐ huan kā fēi, jiù diǎn chá ba.
Since you do not like coffee, order tea.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
既然时间还早，我们就走路去。
Jìrán shí jiān hái zǎo, wǒ men jiù zǒu lù qù.
Since it is still early, let's walk.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Is the arrival treated as established?
    1. yes
    2. no, it is hypothetical
    3. it is a comparison
    Show answer · 查看答案yes
    既然 starts from a condition treated as already established; 就 gives a response or conclusion.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Since it is raining, let's take the subway.”?
    1. 既然店已经关门了，就明天再来。
    2. 既然下雨了，我们就坐地铁吧。
    3. 既然这条路关了，我们就换一条。
    Show answer · 查看答案既然下雨了，我们就坐地铁吧。
    既然下雨了，我们就坐地铁吧。 · Jìrán xià yǔ le, wǒ men jiù zuò dì tiě ba.
  3. In this lesson, what does “既然你饿了，就先吃吧。” mean?
    1. Since you speak Chinese, help me ask.
    2. Since you do not like coffee, order tea.
    3. Since you are hungry, eat first.
    Show answer · 查看答案Since you are hungry, eat first.
    Jìrán nǐ è le, jiù xiān chī ba. · Since you are hungry, eat first.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Since the tickets are bought, do not worry.”?
    1. 既然票已经买了，就别担心。
    2. 既然大家都到了，我们就出发。
    3. 既然时间还早，我们就走路去。
    Show answer · 查看答案既然票已经买了，就别担心。
    既然票已经买了，就别担心。 · Jìrán piào yǐ jīng mǎi le, jiù bié dān xīn.
  5. In this lesson, what does “既然这条路关了，我们就换一条。” mean?
    1. Since you’ve arrived, let’s begin.
    2. Since this road is closed, we will take another.
    3. Since the shop is closed, come back tomorrow.
    Show answer · 查看答案Since this road is closed, we will take another.
    Jìrán zhè tiáo lù guān le, wǒ men jiù huàn yì tiáo. · Since this road is closed, we will take another.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Since you speak Chinese, help me ask.”?
    1. 既然你不喜欢咖啡，就点茶吧。
    2. 既然下雨了，我们就坐地铁吧。
    3. 既然你会中文，就帮我问问吧。
    Show answer · 查看答案既然你会中文，就帮我问问吧。
    既然你会中文，就帮我问问吧。 · Jìrán nǐ huì zhōng wén, jiù bāng wǒ wèn wèn ba.
  7. In this lesson, what does “既然大家都到了，我们就出发。” mean?
    1. Since everyone is here, let's leave.
    2. Since it is still early, let's walk.
    3. Since you are hungry, eat first.
    Show answer · 查看答案Since everyone is here, let's leave.
    Jìrán dà jiā dōu dào le, wǒ men jiù chū fā. · Since everyone is here, let's leave.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Since the shop is closed, come back tomorrow.”?
    1. 既然票已经买了，就别担心。
    2. 既然店已经关门了，就明天再来。
    3. 既然你到了，我们就开始吧。
    Show answer · 查看答案既然店已经关门了，就明天再来。
    既然店已经关门了，就明天再来。 · Jìrán diàn yǐ jīng guān mén le, jiù míng tiān zài lái.
  9. In this lesson, what does “既然你不喜欢咖啡，就点茶吧。” mean?
    1. Since it is raining, let's take the subway.
    2. Since this road is closed, we will take another.
    3. Since you do not like coffee, order tea.
    Show answer · 查看答案Since you do not like coffee, order tea.
    Jìrán nǐ bù xǐ huan kā fēi, jiù diǎn chá ba. · Since you do not like coffee, order tea.
  10. Which pinyin reads “既然时间还早，我们就走路去。”?
    1. Jìrán shí jiān hái zǎo, wǒ men jiù zǒu lù qù.
    2. Jìrán nǐ è le, jiù xiān chī ba.
    3. Jìrán nǐ huì zhōng wén, jiù bāng wǒ wèn wèn ba.
    Show answer · 查看答案Jìrán shí jiān hái zǎo, wǒ men jiù zǒu lù qù.
    既然时间还早，我们就走路去。 means “Since it is still early, let's walk.”
MODULE 11

特殊句式 — Special sentence patterns

Rearrange sentences to track affected objects and topics.

1. 把字句 — The affected-object construction
subject + 把 + known object + verb + result

把 brings a specific affected object before the verb. The predicate usually says what happens to it, with a result, direction, location, or other completion.

Notice: A bare 把书看 is generally incomplete for the intended meaning.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
请把门关上。
Qǐng bǎ mén guān shàng.
Please close the door.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
请把灯关掉。
Qǐng bǎ dēng guān diào.
Please turn off the light.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我把钥匙放在桌上了。
Wǒ bǎ yào shi fàng zài zhuō shàng le.
I put the keys on the table.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
她把票给了我。
Tā bǎ piào gěi le wǒ.
She gave me the ticket.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
把名字写清楚。
Bǎ míng zi xiě qīng chu.
Write the name clearly.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
孩子把汤喝完了。
Hái zi bǎ tāng hē wán le.
The child finished the soup.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
请把行李搬进去。
Qǐng bǎ xíng li bān jìn qù.
Please move the luggage inside.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
他把钱包弄丢了。
Tā bǎ qián bāo nòng diū le.
He lost his wallet.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
我们把房间打扫干净了。
Wǒ men bǎ fáng jiān dǎ sǎo gān jìng le.
We cleaned the room thoroughly.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
把这张地图带上。
Bǎ zhè zhāng dì tú dài shàng.
Take this map with you.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What follows the 把 object here?
    1. only an adjective
    2. a yes-no question
    3. an action with a result
    Show answer · 查看答案an action with a result
    把 brings a specific affected object before the verb. The predicate usually says what happens to it, with a result, direction, location, or other completion.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please turn off the light.”?
    1. 请把灯关掉。
    2. 把名字写清楚。
    3. 他把钱包弄丢了。
    Show answer · 查看答案请把灯关掉。
    请把灯关掉。 · Qǐng bǎ dēng guān diào.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我把钥匙放在桌上了。” mean?
    1. We cleaned the room thoroughly.
    2. I put the keys on the table.
    3. The child finished the soup.
    Show answer · 查看答案I put the keys on the table.
    Wǒ bǎ yào shi fàng zài zhuō shàng le. · I put the keys on the table.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “She gave me the ticket.”?
    1. 请把行李搬进去。
    2. 把这张地图带上。
    3. 她把票给了我。
    Show answer · 查看答案她把票给了我。
    她把票给了我。 · Tā bǎ piào gěi le wǒ.
  5. In this lesson, what does “把名字写清楚。” mean?
    1. Write the name clearly.
    2. He lost his wallet.
    3. Please close the door.
    Show answer · 查看答案Write the name clearly.
    Bǎ míng zi xiě qīng chu. · Write the name clearly.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The child finished the soup.”?
    1. 请把灯关掉。
    2. 孩子把汤喝完了。
    3. 我们把房间打扫干净了。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子把汤喝完了。
    孩子把汤喝完了。 · Hái zi bǎ tāng hē wán le.
  7. In this lesson, what does “请把行李搬进去。” mean?
    1. Take this map with you.
    2. I put the keys on the table.
    3. Please move the luggage inside.
    Show answer · 查看答案Please move the luggage inside.
    Qǐng bǎ xíng li bān jìn qù. · Please move the luggage inside.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “He lost his wallet.”?
    1. 他把钱包弄丢了。
    2. 请把门关上。
    3. 她把票给了我。
    Show answer · 查看答案他把钱包弄丢了。
    他把钱包弄丢了。 · Tā bǎ qián bāo nòng diū le.
  9. In this lesson, what does “我们把房间打扫干净了。” mean?
    1. Write the name clearly.
    2. We cleaned the room thoroughly.
    3. Please turn off the light.
    Show answer · 查看答案We cleaned the room thoroughly.
    Wǒ men bǎ fáng jiān dǎ sǎo gān jìng le. · We cleaned the room thoroughly.
  10. Which pinyin reads “把这张地图带上。”?
    1. Wǒ bǎ yào shi fàng zài zhuō shàng le.
    2. Hái zi bǎ tāng hē wán le.
    3. Bǎ zhè zhāng dì tú dài shàng.
    Show answer · 查看答案Bǎ zhè zhāng dì tú dài shàng.
    把这张地图带上。 means “Take this map with you.”
2. 被字句 — The passive construction
patient + 被 + agent + verb

被 puts the affected person or thing first. The agent can be omitted when understood; outcomes often follow the verb.

Notice: It may imply an unwelcome outcome, but is not limited to bad events.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我的包被人拿走了。
Wǒ de bāo bèi rén ná zǒu le.
Someone took my bag away.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
窗户被风吹开了。
Chuāng hu bèi fēng chuī kāi le.
The window was blown open by the wind.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我的票被人拿走了。
Wǒ de piào bèi rén ná zǒu le.
Someone took my ticket.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
他被老师叫走了。
Tā bèi lǎo shī jiào zǒu le.
The teacher called him away.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
这条路被水淹了。
Zhè tiáo lù bèi shuǐ yān le.
This road was flooded.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
孩子被雨淋湿了。
Hái zi bèi yǔ línshī le.
The child got soaked by rain.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
我的名字被写错了。
Wǒ de míng zi bèi xiě cuò le.
My name was written incorrectly.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
那家店被关掉了。
Nà jiā diàn bèi guān diào le.
That shop was closed down.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
钥匙被他找到了。
Yào shi bèi tā zhǎo dào le.
He found the keys.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
这本书被很多人读过。
Zhè běn shū bèi hěn duō rén dú guo.
Many people have read this book.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What is placed first?
    1. the person taking it
    2. the destination
    3. the affected bag
    Show answer · 查看答案the affected bag
    被 puts the affected person or thing first. The agent can be omitted when understood; outcomes often follow the verb.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “The window was blown open by the wind.”?
    1. 窗户被风吹开了。
    2. 这条路被水淹了。
    3. 那家店被关掉了。
    Show answer · 查看答案窗户被风吹开了。
    窗户被风吹开了。 · Chuāng hu bèi fēng chuī kāi le.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我的票被人拿走了。” mean?
    1. He found the keys.
    2. Someone took my ticket.
    3. The child got soaked by rain.
    Show answer · 查看答案Someone took my ticket.
    Wǒ de piào bèi rén ná zǒu le. · Someone took my ticket.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “The teacher called him away.”?
    1. 我的名字被写错了。
    2. 这本书被很多人读过。
    3. 他被老师叫走了。
    Show answer · 查看答案他被老师叫走了。
    他被老师叫走了。 · Tā bèi lǎo shī jiào zǒu le.
  5. In this lesson, what does “这条路被水淹了。” mean?
    1. This road was flooded.
    2. That shop was closed down.
    3. Someone took my bag away.
    Show answer · 查看答案This road was flooded.
    Zhè tiáo lù bèi shuǐ yān le. · This road was flooded.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The child got soaked by rain.”?
    1. 窗户被风吹开了。
    2. 孩子被雨淋湿了。
    3. 钥匙被他找到了。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子被雨淋湿了。
    孩子被雨淋湿了。 · Hái zi bèi yǔ línshī le.
  7. In this lesson, what does “我的名字被写错了。” mean?
    1. Many people have read this book.
    2. Someone took my ticket.
    3. My name was written incorrectly.
    Show answer · 查看答案My name was written incorrectly.
    Wǒ de míng zi bèi xiě cuò le. · My name was written incorrectly.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “That shop was closed down.”?
    1. 那家店被关掉了。
    2. 我的包被人拿走了。
    3. 他被老师叫走了。
    Show answer · 查看答案那家店被关掉了。
    那家店被关掉了。 · Nà jiā diàn bèi guān diào le.
  9. In this lesson, what does “钥匙被他找到了。” mean?
    1. This road was flooded.
    2. He found the keys.
    3. The window was blown open by the wind.
    Show answer · 查看答案He found the keys.
    Yào shi bèi tā zhǎo dào le. · He found the keys.
  10. Which pinyin reads “这本书被很多人读过。”?
    1. Wǒ de piào bèi rén ná zǒu le.
    2. Hái zi bèi yǔ línshī le.
    3. Zhè běn shū bèi hěn duō rén dú guo.
    Show answer · 查看答案Zhè běn shū bèi hěn duō rén dú guo.
    这本书被很多人读过。 means “Many people have read this book.”
3. 话题与说明 — Topic then comment
topic, comment about topic

A known topic may appear first, followed by what you say about it. The comment can contain its own subject.

Notice: This helps explain sentences with an object fronted for conversation; not every clause follows strict subject–verb–object order.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
这本书，我看过。
Zhè běn shū, wǒ kàn guo.
This book—I’ve read it.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
这个问题，我知道答案。
Zhè ge wèn tí, wǒ zhī dào dá àn.
This question—I know the answer.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
那家店，我去过。
Nà jiā diàn, wǒ qù guo.
That shop—I have been there.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
中文，他学了三年。
Zhōng wén, tā xué le sān nián.
Chinese—he studied it for three years.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
这杯茶，我不喝。
Zhè bēi chá, wǒ bù hē.
This tea—I do not drink it.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
那条路，我们走过。
Nà tiáo lù, wǒ men zǒu guo.
That road—we have walked it.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
这个字，我看不懂。
Zhè ge zì, wǒ kàn bu dǒng.
This character—I cannot understand it.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
你的行李，我帮你拿。
Nǐ de xíng li, wǒ bāng nǐ ná.
Your luggage—I will help you carry it.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
明天的票，我已经买了。
Míng tiān de piào, wǒ yǐ jīng mǎi le.
Tomorrow's ticket—I have already bought it.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
这件衣服，她很喜欢。
Zhè jiàn yī fu, tā hěn xǐ huan.
This piece of clothing—she likes it a lot.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What is the topic?
    1. 看过
    2. 我
    3. 这本书
    Show answer · 查看答案这本书
    A known topic may appear first, followed by what you say about it. The comment can contain its own subject.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “This question—I know the answer.”?
    1. 这个问题，我知道答案。
    2. 这杯茶，我不喝。
    3. 你的行李，我帮你拿。
    Show answer · 查看答案这个问题，我知道答案。
    这个问题，我知道答案。 · Zhè ge wèn tí, wǒ zhī dào dá àn.
  3. In this lesson, what does “那家店，我去过。” mean?
    1. Tomorrow's ticket—I have already bought it.
    2. That shop—I have been there.
    3. That road—we have walked it.
    Show answer · 查看答案That shop—I have been there.
    Nà jiā diàn, wǒ qù guo. · That shop—I have been there.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Chinese—he studied it for three years.”?
    1. 这个字，我看不懂。
    2. 这件衣服，她很喜欢。
    3. 中文，他学了三年。
    Show answer · 查看答案中文，他学了三年。
    中文，他学了三年。 · Zhōng wén, tā xué le sān nián.
  5. In this lesson, what does “这杯茶，我不喝。” mean?
    1. This tea—I do not drink it.
    2. Your luggage—I will help you carry it.
    3. This book—I’ve read it.
    Show answer · 查看答案This tea—I do not drink it.
    Zhè bēi chá, wǒ bù hē. · This tea—I do not drink it.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “That road—we have walked it.”?
    1. 这个问题，我知道答案。
    2. 那条路，我们走过。
    3. 明天的票，我已经买了。
    Show answer · 查看答案那条路，我们走过。
    那条路，我们走过。 · Nà tiáo lù, wǒ men zǒu guo.
  7. In this lesson, what does “这个字，我看不懂。” mean?
    1. This piece of clothing—she likes it a lot.
    2. That shop—I have been there.
    3. This character—I cannot understand it.
    Show answer · 查看答案This character—I cannot understand it.
    Zhè ge zì, wǒ kàn bu dǒng. · This character—I cannot understand it.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Your luggage—I will help you carry it.”?
    1. 你的行李，我帮你拿。
    2. 这本书，我看过。
    3. 中文，他学了三年。
    Show answer · 查看答案你的行李，我帮你拿。
    你的行李，我帮你拿。 · Nǐ de xíng li, wǒ bāng nǐ ná.
  9. In this lesson, what does “明天的票，我已经买了。” mean?
    1. This tea—I do not drink it.
    2. Tomorrow's ticket—I have already bought it.
    3. This question—I know the answer.
    Show answer · 查看答案Tomorrow's ticket—I have already bought it.
    Míng tiān de piào, wǒ yǐ jīng mǎi le. · Tomorrow's ticket—I have already bought it.
  10. Which pinyin reads “这件衣服，她很喜欢。”?
    1. Nà jiā diàn, wǒ qù guo.
    2. Nà tiáo lù, wǒ men zǒu guo.
    3. Zhè jiàn yī fu, tā hěn xǐ huan.
    Show answer · 查看答案Zhè jiàn yī fu, tā hěn xǐ huan.
    这件衣服，她很喜欢。 means “This piece of clothing—she likes it a lot.”
4. 给与告诉：双宾语 — Giving and telling
verb + recipient + thing

Some verbs, such as 给 and 告诉, can take a recipient and then the thing or message.

Notice: Word order depends on the verb; do not assume every verb takes two objects.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
请告诉我地址。
Qǐng gàosu wǒ dìzhǐ.
Please tell me the address.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
我给她一本书。
Wǒ gěi tā yì běn shū.
I give her a book.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
请告诉我你的名字。
Qǐng gào su wǒ nǐ de míng zi.
Please tell me your name.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
他送给妈妈一束花。
Tā sòng gěi mā ma yí shù huā.
He gives Mom a bouquet of flowers.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
老师教我们中文。
Lǎo shī jiāo wǒ men zhōng wén.
The teacher teaches us Chinese.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
她还给我钥匙。
Tā huán gěi wǒ yào shi.
She returned the keys to me.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
请给孩子一杯水。
Qǐng gěi hái zi yì bēi shuǐ.
Please give the child a glass of water.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我告诉朋友地址。
Wǒ gào su péng you dì zhǐ.
I tell my friend the address.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
他借给我一支笔。
Tā jiè gěi wǒ yì zhī bǐ.
He lends me a pen.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
请递给我那张纸。
Qǐng dì gěi wǒ nà zhāng zhǐ.
Please pass me that sheet of paper.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Who is the recipient?
    1. 地址
    2. 请
    3. 我
    Show answer · 查看答案我
    Some verbs, such as 给 and 告诉, can take a recipient and then the thing or message.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “I give her a book.”?
    1. 我给她一本书。
    2. 老师教我们中文。
    3. 我告诉朋友地址。
    Show answer · 查看答案我给她一本书。
    我给她一本书。 · Wǒ gěi tā yì běn shū.
  3. In this lesson, what does “请告诉我你的名字。” mean?
    1. He lends me a pen.
    2. Please tell me your name.
    3. She returned the keys to me.
    Show answer · 查看答案Please tell me your name.
    Qǐng gào su wǒ nǐ de míng zi. · Please tell me your name.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “He gives Mom a bouquet of flowers.”?
    1. 请给孩子一杯水。
    2. 请递给我那张纸。
    3. 他送给妈妈一束花。
    Show answer · 查看答案他送给妈妈一束花。
    他送给妈妈一束花。 · Tā sòng gěi mā ma yí shù huā.
  5. In this lesson, what does “老师教我们中文。” mean?
    1. The teacher teaches us Chinese.
    2. I tell my friend the address.
    3. Please tell me the address.
    Show answer · 查看答案The teacher teaches us Chinese.
    Lǎo shī jiāo wǒ men zhōng wén. · The teacher teaches us Chinese.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “She returned the keys to me.”?
    1. 我给她一本书。
    2. 她还给我钥匙。
    3. 他借给我一支笔。
    Show answer · 查看答案她还给我钥匙。
    她还给我钥匙。 · Tā huán gěi wǒ yào shi.
  7. In this lesson, what does “请给孩子一杯水。” mean?
    1. Please pass me that sheet of paper.
    2. Please tell me your name.
    3. Please give the child a glass of water.
    Show answer · 查看答案Please give the child a glass of water.
    Qǐng gěi hái zi yì bēi shuǐ. · Please give the child a glass of water.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “I tell my friend the address.”?
    1. 我告诉朋友地址。
    2. 请告诉我地址。
    3. 他送给妈妈一束花。
    Show answer · 查看答案我告诉朋友地址。
    我告诉朋友地址。 · Wǒ gào su péng you dì zhǐ.
  9. In this lesson, what does “他借给我一支笔。” mean?
    1. The teacher teaches us Chinese.
    2. He lends me a pen.
    3. I give her a book.
    Show answer · 查看答案He lends me a pen.
    Tā jiè gěi wǒ yì zhī bǐ. · He lends me a pen.
  10. Which pinyin reads “请递给我那张纸。”?
    1. Qǐng gào su wǒ nǐ de míng zi.
    2. Tā huán gěi wǒ yào shi.
    3. Qǐng dì gěi wǒ nà zhāng zhǐ.
    Show answer · 查看答案Qǐng dì gěi wǒ nà zhāng zhǐ.
    请递给我那张纸。 means “Please pass me that sheet of paper.”
5. 用“让”使人做事 — Letting or causing someone to act
subject + 让 + person + action

让 can mean let, ask, or cause someone to do something. The person after 让 becomes the doer of the next action.

Notice: 请让他进来 is “please let him come in.”

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
老师让我们读这篇文章。
Lǎoshī ràng wǒmen dú zhè piān wénzhāng.
The teacher asks us to read this article.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
请让孩子进来。
Qǐng ràng hái zi jìn lái.
Please let the child come in.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
这首歌让我想家。
Zhè shǒu gē ràng wǒ xiǎng jiā.
This song makes me miss home.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
老师让他再读一遍。
Lǎo shī ràng tā zài dú yí biàn.
The teacher asks him to read it again.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
别让我等太久。
Bié ràng wǒ děng tài jiǔ.
Do not make me wait too long.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这张地图让我们找到了车站。
Zhè zhāng dì tú ràng wǒ men zhǎo dào le chēzhàn.
This map helped us find the station.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
她让孩子自己选。
Tā ràng hái zi zì jǐ xuǎn.
She lets the child choose.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
这个消息让大家很高兴。
Zhè ge xiāo xi ràng dà jiā hěn gāo xìng.
This news made everyone happy.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
经理让我们明天再来。
Jīng lǐ ràng wǒ men míng tiān zài lái.
The manager asks us to come back tomorrow.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
请让司机停在这里。
Qǐng ràng sī jī tíng zài zhè lǐ.
Please ask the driver to stop here.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Who reads the article?
    1. 老师
    2. 文章
    3. 我们
    Show answer · 查看答案我们
    让 can mean let, ask, or cause someone to do something. The person after 让 becomes the doer of the next action.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please let the child come in.”?
    1. 请让孩子进来。
    2. 别让我等太久。
    3. 这个消息让大家很高兴。
    Show answer · 查看答案请让孩子进来。
    请让孩子进来。 · Qǐng ràng hái zi jìn lái.
  3. In this lesson, what does “这首歌让我想家。” mean?
    1. The manager asks us to come back tomorrow.
    2. This song makes me miss home.
    3. This map helped us find the station.
    Show answer · 查看答案This song makes me miss home.
    Zhè shǒu gē ràng wǒ xiǎng jiā. · This song makes me miss home.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “The teacher asks him to read it again.”?
    1. 她让孩子自己选。
    2. 请让司机停在这里。
    3. 老师让他再读一遍。
    Show answer · 查看答案老师让他再读一遍。
    老师让他再读一遍。 · Lǎo shī ràng tā zài dú yí biàn.
  5. In this lesson, what does “别让我等太久。” mean?
    1. Do not make me wait too long.
    2. This news made everyone happy.
    3. The teacher asks us to read this article.
    Show answer · 查看答案Do not make me wait too long.
    Bié ràng wǒ děng tài jiǔ. · Do not make me wait too long.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “This map helped us find the station.”?
    1. 请让孩子进来。
    2. 这张地图让我们找到了车站。
    3. 经理让我们明天再来。
    Show answer · 查看答案这张地图让我们找到了车站。
    这张地图让我们找到了车站。 · Zhè zhāng dì tú ràng wǒ men zhǎo dào le chēzhàn.
  7. In this lesson, what does “她让孩子自己选。” mean?
    1. Please ask the driver to stop here.
    2. This song makes me miss home.
    3. She lets the child choose.
    Show answer · 查看答案She lets the child choose.
    Tā ràng hái zi zì jǐ xuǎn. · She lets the child choose.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “This news made everyone happy.”?
    1. 这个消息让大家很高兴。
    2. 老师让我们读这篇文章。
    3. 老师让他再读一遍。
    Show answer · 查看答案这个消息让大家很高兴。
    这个消息让大家很高兴。 · Zhè ge xiāo xi ràng dà jiā hěn gāo xìng.
  9. In this lesson, what does “经理让我们明天再来。” mean?
    1. Do not make me wait too long.
    2. The manager asks us to come back tomorrow.
    3. Please let the child come in.
    Show answer · 查看答案The manager asks us to come back tomorrow.
    Jīng lǐ ràng wǒ men míng tiān zài lái. · The manager asks us to come back tomorrow.
  10. Which pinyin reads “请让司机停在这里。”?
    1. Zhè shǒu gē ràng wǒ xiǎng jiā.
    2. Zhè zhāng dì tú ràng wǒ men zhǎo dào le chēzhàn.
    3. Qǐng ràng sī jī tíng zài zhè lǐ.
    Show answer · 查看答案Qǐng ràng sī jī tíng zài zhè lǐ.
    请让司机停在这里。 means “Please ask the driver to stop here.”
6. 连动句与目的 — Serial actions and purpose
subject + verb phrase + verb phrase

A single subject can do linked actions in sequence or use one action to achieve another, often without a connector.

Notice: 去买东西 can mean “go shopping”; the exact relation comes from context.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我去商店买水。
Wǒ qù shāngdiàn mǎi shuǐ.
I’m going to the store to buy water.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
他去银行换钱。
Tā qù yín háng huàn qián.
He goes to the bank to exchange money.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我们坐地铁去机场。
Wǒ men zuò dì tiě qù jī chǎng.
We take the subway to the airport.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
她回家拿护照。
Tā huí jiā ná hù zhào.
She goes home to get her passport.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我去厨房倒水。
Wǒ qù chú fáng dào shuǐ.
I go to the kitchen to pour water.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
孩子跑过来找妈妈。
Hái zi pǎo guo lái zhǎo mā ma.
The child runs over to find Mom.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
他拿手机给我看照片。
Tā ná shǒu jī gěi wǒ kàn zhào piàn.
He takes out his phone to show me a picture.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我们上楼找经理。
Wǒ men shàng lóu zhǎo jīng lǐ.
We go upstairs to find the manager.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
她去超市买水果。
Tā qù chāo shì mǎi shuǐ guǒ.
She goes to the supermarket to buy fruit.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
我来这里学中文。
Wǒ lái zhè lǐ xué zhōng wén.
I came here to study Chinese.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What is the purpose of going?
    1. to close the store
    2. to read a book
    3. to buy water
    Show answer · 查看答案to buy water
    A single subject can do linked actions in sequence or use one action to achieve another, often without a connector.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “He goes to the bank to exchange money.”?
    1. 他去银行换钱。
    2. 我去厨房倒水。
    3. 我们上楼找经理。
    Show answer · 查看答案他去银行换钱。
    他去银行换钱。 · Tā qù yín háng huàn qián.
  3. In this lesson, what does “我们坐地铁去机场。” mean?
    1. She goes to the supermarket to buy fruit.
    2. We take the subway to the airport.
    3. The child runs over to find Mom.
    Show answer · 查看答案We take the subway to the airport.
    Wǒ men zuò dì tiě qù jī chǎng. · We take the subway to the airport.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “She goes home to get her passport.”?
    1. 他拿手机给我看照片。
    2. 我来这里学中文。
    3. 她回家拿护照。
    Show answer · 查看答案她回家拿护照。
    她回家拿护照。 · Tā huí jiā ná hù zhào.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我去厨房倒水。” mean?
    1. I go to the kitchen to pour water.
    2. We go upstairs to find the manager.
    3. I’m going to the store to buy water.
    Show answer · 查看答案I go to the kitchen to pour water.
    Wǒ qù chú fáng dào shuǐ. · I go to the kitchen to pour water.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The child runs over to find Mom.”?
    1. 他去银行换钱。
    2. 孩子跑过来找妈妈。
    3. 她去超市买水果。
    Show answer · 查看答案孩子跑过来找妈妈。
    孩子跑过来找妈妈。 · Hái zi pǎo guo lái zhǎo mā ma.
  7. In this lesson, what does “他拿手机给我看照片。” mean?
    1. I came here to study Chinese.
    2. We take the subway to the airport.
    3. He takes out his phone to show me a picture.
    Show answer · 查看答案He takes out his phone to show me a picture.
    Tā ná shǒu jī gěi wǒ kàn zhào piàn. · He takes out his phone to show me a picture.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “We go upstairs to find the manager.”?
    1. 我们上楼找经理。
    2. 我去商店买水。
    3. 她回家拿护照。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们上楼找经理。
    我们上楼找经理。 · Wǒ men shàng lóu zhǎo jīng lǐ.
  9. In this lesson, what does “她去超市买水果。” mean?
    1. I go to the kitchen to pour water.
    2. She goes to the supermarket to buy fruit.
    3. He goes to the bank to exchange money.
    Show answer · 查看答案She goes to the supermarket to buy fruit.
    Tā qù chāo shì mǎi shuǐ guǒ. · She goes to the supermarket to buy fruit.
  10. Which pinyin reads “我来这里学中文。”?
    1. Wǒ men zuò dì tiě qù jī chǎng.
    2. Hái zi pǎo guo lái zhǎo mā ma.
    3. Wǒ lái zhè lǐ xué zhōng wén.
    Show answer · 查看答案Wǒ lái zhè lǐ xué zhōng wén.
    我来这里学中文。 means “I came here to study Chinese.”
MODULE 12

选择、程度与语气 — Choice, extent & nuance

Express alternatives, limits, correlation, and tone.

1. 还是与或者 — “Or” in a choice question versus a statement
还是 in questions; 或者 in statements

For a direct choice question use 还是. For “or” in a declarative option use 或者.

Notice: In special rhetorical or embedded contexts usage can vary; this is the everyday starting rule.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
你要茶还是咖啡？
Nǐ yào chá háishi kāfēi?
Do you want tea or coffee?
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
你坐地铁还是坐公交？
Nǐ zuò dì tiě hái shi zuò gōngjiāo?
Are you taking the subway or the bus?
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
我可以今天或者明天来。
Wǒ kě yǐ jīn tiān huò zhě míng tiān lái.
I can come today or tomorrow.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
你要热茶还是冰茶？
Nǐ yào rè chá hái shi bīng chá?
Do you want hot tea or iced tea?
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我们去公园或者去博物馆。
Wǒ men qù gōng yuán huò zhě qù bó wù guǎn.
We can go to the park or the museum.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这是你的票还是他的票？
Zhè shì nǐ de piào hái shi tā de piào?
Is this your ticket or his?
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
他可能在酒店或者车站。
Tā kě néng zài jiǔ diàn huò zhě chēzhàn.
He may be at the hotel or the station.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
你想先吃饭还是先休息？
Nǐ xiǎng xiān chī fàn hái shi xiān xiū xi?
Do you want to eat or rest first?
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
可以付现金或者刷卡。
Kě yǐ fù xiàn jīn huò zhě shuā kǎ.
You can pay cash or by card.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
你会中文还是英文？
Nǐ huì zhōng wén hái shi yīng wén?
Do you speak Chinese or English?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which presents a direct question choice?
    1. 因为
    2. 还是
    3. 或者
    Show answer · 查看答案还是
    For a direct choice question use 还是. For “or” in a declarative option use 或者.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Are you taking the subway or the bus?”?
    1. 我们去公园或者去博物馆。
    2. 你想先吃饭还是先休息？
    3. 你坐地铁还是坐公交？
    Show answer · 查看答案你坐地铁还是坐公交？
    你坐地铁还是坐公交？ · Nǐ zuò dì tiě hái shi zuò gōngjiāo?
  3. In this lesson, what does “我可以今天或者明天来。” mean?
    1. I can come today or tomorrow.
    2. Is this your ticket or his?
    3. You can pay cash or by card.
    Show answer · 查看答案I can come today or tomorrow.
    Wǒ kě yǐ jīn tiān huò zhě míng tiān lái. · I can come today or tomorrow.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Do you want hot tea or iced tea?”?
    1. 你会中文还是英文？
    2. 你要热茶还是冰茶？
    3. 他可能在酒店或者车站。
    Show answer · 查看答案你要热茶还是冰茶？
    你要热茶还是冰茶？ · Nǐ yào rè chá hái shi bīng chá?
  5. In this lesson, what does “我们去公园或者去博物馆。” mean?
    1. Do you want to eat or rest first?
    2. Do you want tea or coffee?
    3. We can go to the park or the museum.
    Show answer · 查看答案We can go to the park or the museum.
    Wǒ men qù gōng yuán huò zhě qù bó wù guǎn. · We can go to the park or the museum.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Is this your ticket or his?”?
    1. 这是你的票还是他的票？
    2. 可以付现金或者刷卡。
    3. 你坐地铁还是坐公交？
    Show answer · 查看答案这是你的票还是他的票？
    这是你的票还是他的票？ · Zhè shì nǐ de piào hái shi tā de piào?
  7. In this lesson, what does “他可能在酒店或者车站。” mean?
    1. I can come today or tomorrow.
    2. He may be at the hotel or the station.
    3. Do you speak Chinese or English?
    Show answer · 查看答案He may be at the hotel or the station.
    Tā kě néng zài jiǔ diàn huò zhě chēzhàn. · He may be at the hotel or the station.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Do you want to eat or rest first?”?
    1. 你要茶还是咖啡？
    2. 你要热茶还是冰茶？
    3. 你想先吃饭还是先休息？
    Show answer · 查看答案你想先吃饭还是先休息？
    你想先吃饭还是先休息？ · Nǐ xiǎng xiān chī fàn hái shi xiān xiū xi?
  9. In this lesson, what does “可以付现金或者刷卡。” mean?
    1. You can pay cash or by card.
    2. Are you taking the subway or the bus?
    3. We can go to the park or the museum.
    Show answer · 查看答案You can pay cash or by card.
    Kě yǐ fù xiàn jīn huò zhě shuā kǎ. · You can pay cash or by card.
  10. Which pinyin reads “你会中文还是英文？”?
    1. Zhè shì nǐ de piào hái shi tā de piào?
    2. Nǐ huì zhōng wén hái shi yīng wén?
    3. Wǒ kě yǐ jīn tiān huò zhě míng tiān lái.
    Show answer · 查看答案Nǐ huì zhōng wén hái shi yīng wén?
    你会中文还是英文？ means “Do you speak Chinese or English?”
2. 只有……才……与只要……就…… — Only if versus as long as
只有…才… / 只要…就…

只有…才… makes the condition necessary. 只要…就… says meeting the condition is sufficient.

Notice: Their logic differs: necessary condition versus sufficient condition.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
只要你告诉我地址，我就能找到。
Zhǐyào nǐ gàosu wǒ dìzhǐ, wǒ jiù néng zhǎodào.
As long as you tell me the address, I can find it.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
只要有水，我们就能做饭。
Zhǐyào yǒu shuǐ, wǒ men jiù néng zuò fàn.
As long as we have water, we can cook.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
只有买了票，才能上车。
Zhǐyǒu mǎi le piào, cái néng shàng chē.
Only if you have bought a ticket can you board.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
只要你来，我就高兴。
Zhǐyào nǐ lái, wǒ jiù gāo xìng.
As long as you come, I will be happy.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
只有问清楚，才不会走错。
Zhǐyǒu wèn qīng chu, cái bú huì zǒu cuò.
Only if we ask clearly can we avoid going the wrong way.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
只要不下雨，我们就去公园。
Zhǐyào bú xià yǔ, wǒ men jiù qù gōng yuán.
As long as it does not rain, we will go to the park.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
只有经理同意，才能退款。
Zhǐyǒu jīng lǐ tóng yì, cái néng tuì kuǎn.
Only with the manager's approval can you get a refund.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
只要现在出发，就来得及。
Zhǐyào xiàn zài chū fā, jiù lái de jí.
As long as we leave now, we will make it.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
只有护照在手，才能办手续。
Zhǐyǒu hù zhào zài shǒu, cái néng bàn shǒu xù.
Only with your passport in hand can you complete the paperwork.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
只要你说慢一点，我就能听懂。
Zhǐyào nǐ shuō màn yī diǎn, wǒ jiù néng tīng dǒng.
As long as you speak a bit slower, I can understand.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. Which means “as long as”?
    1. 虽然…但是…
    2. 只要…就…
    3. 只有…才…
    Show answer · 查看答案只要…就…
    只有…才… makes the condition necessary. 只要…就… says meeting the condition is sufficient.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “As long as we have water, we can cook.”?
    1. 只有问清楚，才不会走错。
    2. 只要现在出发，就来得及。
    3. 只要有水，我们就能做饭。
    Show answer · 查看答案只要有水，我们就能做饭。
    只要有水，我们就能做饭。 · Zhǐyào yǒu shuǐ, wǒ men jiù néng zuò fàn.
  3. In this lesson, what does “只有买了票，才能上车。” mean?
    1. Only if you have bought a ticket can you board.
    2. As long as it does not rain, we will go to the park.
    3. Only with your passport in hand can you complete the paperwork.
    Show answer · 查看答案Only if you have bought a ticket can you board.
    Zhǐyǒu mǎi le piào, cái néng shàng chē. · Only if you have bought a ticket can you board.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “As long as you come, I will be happy.”?
    1. 只要你说慢一点，我就能听懂。
    2. 只要你来，我就高兴。
    3. 只有经理同意，才能退款。
    Show answer · 查看答案只要你来，我就高兴。
    只要你来，我就高兴。 · Zhǐyào nǐ lái, wǒ jiù gāo xìng.
  5. In this lesson, what does “只有问清楚，才不会走错。” mean?
    1. As long as we leave now, we will make it.
    2. As long as you tell me the address, I can find it.
    3. Only if we ask clearly can we avoid going the wrong way.
    Show answer · 查看答案Only if we ask clearly can we avoid going the wrong way.
    Zhǐyǒu wèn qīng chu, cái bú huì zǒu cuò. · Only if we ask clearly can we avoid going the wrong way.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “As long as it does not rain, we will go to the park.”?
    1. 只要不下雨，我们就去公园。
    2. 只有护照在手，才能办手续。
    3. 只要有水，我们就能做饭。
    Show answer · 查看答案只要不下雨，我们就去公园。
    只要不下雨，我们就去公园。 · Zhǐyào bú xià yǔ, wǒ men jiù qù gōng yuán.
  7. In this lesson, what does “只有经理同意，才能退款。” mean?
    1. Only if you have bought a ticket can you board.
    2. Only with the manager's approval can you get a refund.
    3. As long as you speak a bit slower, I can understand.
    Show answer · 查看答案Only with the manager's approval can you get a refund.
    Zhǐyǒu jīng lǐ tóng yì, cái néng tuì kuǎn. · Only with the manager's approval can you get a refund.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “As long as we leave now, we will make it.”?
    1. 只要你告诉我地址，我就能找到。
    2. 只要你来，我就高兴。
    3. 只要现在出发，就来得及。
    Show answer · 查看答案只要现在出发，就来得及。
    只要现在出发，就来得及。 · Zhǐyào xiàn zài chū fā, jiù lái de jí.
  9. In this lesson, what does “只有护照在手，才能办手续。” mean?
    1. Only with your passport in hand can you complete the paperwork.
    2. As long as we have water, we can cook.
    3. Only if we ask clearly can we avoid going the wrong way.
    Show answer · 查看答案Only with your passport in hand can you complete the paperwork.
    Zhǐyǒu hù zhào zài shǒu, cái néng bàn shǒu xù. · Only with your passport in hand can you complete the paperwork.
  10. Which pinyin reads “只要你说慢一点，我就能听懂。”?
    1. Zhǐyào bú xià yǔ, wǒ men jiù qù gōng yuán.
    2. Zhǐyào nǐ shuō màn yī diǎn, wǒ jiù néng tīng dǒng.
    3. Zhǐyǒu mǎi le piào, cái néng shàng chē.
    Show answer · 查看答案Zhǐyào nǐ shuō màn yī diǎn, wǒ jiù néng tīng dǒng.
    只要你说慢一点，我就能听懂。 means “As long as you speak a bit slower, I can understand.”
3. 越……越…… — The more…the more
越…越…

Put 越 before each changing quality or action to link two increasing trends.

Notice: It need not mean both are desirable.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
天气越冷，我越想喝热茶。
Tiānqì yuè lěng, wǒ yuè xiǎng hē rè chá.
The colder it gets, the more I want hot tea.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
你越练习，说得越好。
Nǐ yuè liàn xí, shuō de yuè hǎo.
The more you practice, the better you speak.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
雨越下越大。
Yǔ yuè xià yuè dà.
The rain is getting heavier.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
我越想越觉得不对。
Wǒ yuè xiǎng yuè jué de bú duì.
The more I think, the more it feels wrong.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
孩子越长越高。
Hái zi yuè zhǎng yuè gāo.
The child is getting taller as they grow.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
这个问题越解释越清楚。
Zhè ge wèn tí yuè jiě shì yuè qīng chu.
The more it is explained, the clearer this question becomes.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
车越开越慢。
Chē yuè kāi yuè màn.
The vehicle is moving more and more slowly.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
我们越走越近。
Wǒ men yuè zǒu yuè jìn.
The more we walk, the closer we get.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
她越听越喜欢这首歌。
Tā yuè tīng yuè xǐ huan zhè shǒu gē.
The more she listens, the more she likes this song.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
天越晚，路上人越少。
Tiān yuè wǎn, lù shàng rén yuè shǎo.
The later it gets, the fewer people are on the road.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 越…越… connect?
    1. two classifiers
    2. two changing degrees
    3. two past experiences
    Show answer · 查看答案two changing degrees
    Put 越 before each changing quality or action to link two increasing trends.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “The more you practice, the better you speak.”?
    1. 孩子越长越高。
    2. 我们越走越近。
    3. 你越练习，说得越好。
    Show answer · 查看答案你越练习，说得越好。
    你越练习，说得越好。 · Nǐ yuè liàn xí, shuō de yuè hǎo.
  3. In this lesson, what does “雨越下越大。” mean?
    1. The rain is getting heavier.
    2. The more it is explained, the clearer this question becomes.
    3. The more she listens, the more she likes this song.
    Show answer · 查看答案The rain is getting heavier.
    Yǔ yuè xià yuè dà. · The rain is getting heavier.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “The more I think, the more it feels wrong.”?
    1. 天越晚，路上人越少。
    2. 我越想越觉得不对。
    3. 车越开越慢。
    Show answer · 查看答案我越想越觉得不对。
    我越想越觉得不对。 · Wǒ yuè xiǎng yuè jué de bú duì.
  5. In this lesson, what does “孩子越长越高。” mean?
    1. The more we walk, the closer we get.
    2. The colder it gets, the more I want hot tea.
    3. The child is getting taller as they grow.
    Show answer · 查看答案The child is getting taller as they grow.
    Hái zi yuè zhǎng yuè gāo. · The child is getting taller as they grow.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “The more it is explained, the clearer this question becomes.”?
    1. 这个问题越解释越清楚。
    2. 她越听越喜欢这首歌。
    3. 你越练习，说得越好。
    Show answer · 查看答案这个问题越解释越清楚。
    这个问题越解释越清楚。 · Zhè ge wèn tí yuè jiě shì yuè qīng chu.
  7. In this lesson, what does “车越开越慢。” mean?
    1. The rain is getting heavier.
    2. The vehicle is moving more and more slowly.
    3. The later it gets, the fewer people are on the road.
    Show answer · 查看答案The vehicle is moving more and more slowly.
    Chē yuè kāi yuè màn. · The vehicle is moving more and more slowly.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “The more we walk, the closer we get.”?
    1. 天气越冷，我越想喝热茶。
    2. 我越想越觉得不对。
    3. 我们越走越近。
    Show answer · 查看答案我们越走越近。
    我们越走越近。 · Wǒ men yuè zǒu yuè jìn.
  9. In this lesson, what does “她越听越喜欢这首歌。” mean?
    1. The more she listens, the more she likes this song.
    2. The more you practice, the better you speak.
    3. The child is getting taller as they grow.
    Show answer · 查看答案The more she listens, the more she likes this song.
    Tā yuè tīng yuè xǐ huan zhè shǒu gē. · The more she listens, the more she likes this song.
  10. Which pinyin reads “天越晚，路上人越少。”?
    1. Zhè ge wèn tí yuè jiě shì yuè qīng chu.
    2. Tiān yuè wǎn, lù shàng rén yuè shǎo.
    3. Yǔ yuè xià yuè dà.
    Show answer · 查看答案Tiān yuè wǎn, lù shàng rén yuè shǎo.
    天越晚，路上人越少。 means “The later it gets, the fewer people are on the road.”
4. 连、除了、都 — Even, except, and all
连…都… / 除了…以外

连…都… highlights a surprising extreme. 除了…以外 can mean “besides” with 还, or “except” with 都/不 depending on the rest.

Notice: Read the whole clause to know whether 除了 adds or excludes.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
连孩子都知道。
Lián háizi dōu zhīdào.
Even children know.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
连老师都不知道。
Lián lǎo shī dōu bù zhī dào.
Even the teacher does not know.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
除了我以外，大家都到了。
Chúle wǒ yǐwài, dà jiā dōu dào le.
Everyone except me has arrived.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
连这个字他都认识。
Lián zhè ge zì tā dōu rèn shi.
He even recognizes this character.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
除了周日以外，我们每天都开门。
Chúle zhōu rì yǐwài, wǒ men měi tiān dōu kāi mén.
We are open every day except Sunday.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
连孩子都能看懂。
Lián hái zi dōu néng kàn dǒng.
Even a child can understand it.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
除了水以外，我还买了茶。
Chúle shuǐ yǐwài, wǒ hái mǎi le chá.
Besides water, I bought tea too.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
他连名字都忘了。
Tā lián míng zi dōu wàng le.
He even forgot the name.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
除了红色以外，还有蓝色。
Chúle hóngsè yǐwài, hái yǒu lánsè.
Besides red, there is also blue.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
连这条路也关了。
Lián zhè tiáo lù yě guān le.
Even this road is closed.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 连 highlight?
    1. an object’s location
    2. a surprising included case
    3. a starting point
    Show answer · 查看答案a surprising included case
    连…都… highlights a surprising extreme. 除了…以外 can mean “besides” with 还, or “except” with 都/不 depending on the rest.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Even the teacher does not know.”?
    1. 除了周日以外，我们每天都开门。
    2. 他连名字都忘了。
    3. 连老师都不知道。
    Show answer · 查看答案连老师都不知道。
    连老师都不知道。 · Lián lǎo shī dōu bù zhī dào.
  3. In this lesson, what does “除了我以外，大家都到了。” mean?
    1. Everyone except me has arrived.
    2. Even a child can understand it.
    3. Besides red, there is also blue.
    Show answer · 查看答案Everyone except me has arrived.
    Chúle wǒ yǐwài, dà jiā dōu dào le. · Everyone except me has arrived.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “He even recognizes this character.”?
    1. 连这条路也关了。
    2. 连这个字他都认识。
    3. 除了水以外，我还买了茶。
    Show answer · 查看答案连这个字他都认识。
    连这个字他都认识。 · Lián zhè ge zì tā dōu rèn shi.
  5. In this lesson, what does “除了周日以外，我们每天都开门。” mean?
    1. He even forgot the name.
    2. Even children know.
    3. We are open every day except Sunday.
    Show answer · 查看答案We are open every day except Sunday.
    Chúle zhōu rì yǐwài, wǒ men měi tiān dōu kāi mén. · We are open every day except Sunday.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Even a child can understand it.”?
    1. 连孩子都能看懂。
    2. 除了红色以外，还有蓝色。
    3. 连老师都不知道。
    Show answer · 查看答案连孩子都能看懂。
    连孩子都能看懂。 · Lián hái zi dōu néng kàn dǒng.
  7. In this lesson, what does “除了水以外，我还买了茶。” mean?
    1. Everyone except me has arrived.
    2. Besides water, I bought tea too.
    3. Even this road is closed.
    Show answer · 查看答案Besides water, I bought tea too.
    Chúle shuǐ yǐwài, wǒ hái mǎi le chá. · Besides water, I bought tea too.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “He even forgot the name.”?
    1. 连孩子都知道。
    2. 连这个字他都认识。
    3. 他连名字都忘了。
    Show answer · 查看答案他连名字都忘了。
    他连名字都忘了。 · Tā lián míng zi dōu wàng le.
  9. In this lesson, what does “除了红色以外，还有蓝色。” mean?
    1. Besides red, there is also blue.
    2. Even the teacher does not know.
    3. We are open every day except Sunday.
    Show answer · 查看答案Besides red, there is also blue.
    Chúle hóngsè yǐwài, hái yǒu lánsè. · Besides red, there is also blue.
  10. Which pinyin reads “连这条路也关了。”?
    1. Lián hái zi dōu néng kàn dǒng.
    2. Lián zhè tiáo lù yě guān le.
    3. Chúle wǒ yǐwài, dà jiā dōu dào le.
    Show answer · 查看答案Lián zhè tiáo lù yě guān le.
    连这条路也关了。 means “Even this road is closed.”
5. 吧、呢、啊的语气 — Softening and prompting
吧 / 呢 / 啊 at the end

吧 can soften a suggestion or tentative statement; 呢 can signal a follow-up or continuing situation; 啊 adds conversational feeling.

Notice: Particles depend strongly on tone and context, so listen to whole exchanges.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
我们走吧。
Wǒmen zǒu ba.
Let’s go.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
请坐吧。
Qǐng zuò ba.
Please have a seat.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
你先吃吧。
Nǐ xiān chī ba.
Go ahead and eat first.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
我们明天见吧。
Wǒ men míng tiān jiàn ba.
Let's meet tomorrow.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
我的钥匙呢？
Wǒ de yào shi ne?
Where are my keys?
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
他还在等呢。
Tā hái zài děng ne.
He is still waiting.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
这杯茶真香啊！
Zhè bēi chá zhēn xiāng a!
This tea smells wonderful!
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
别着急啊。
Bié zháo jí a.
Do not worry.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
你先回去吧。
Nǐ xiān huí qù ba.
You should head back first.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
你觉得怎么样呢？
Nǐ jué de zěnmeyàng ne?
What do you think?

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 吧 do here?
    1. marks a classifier
    2. softens a suggestion
    3. marks past completion
    Show answer · 查看答案softens a suggestion
    吧 can soften a suggestion or tentative statement; 呢 can signal a follow-up or continuing situation; 啊 adds conversational feeling.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Please have a seat.”?
    1. 我的钥匙呢？
    2. 别着急啊。
    3. 请坐吧。
    Show answer · 查看答案请坐吧。
    请坐吧。 · Qǐng zuò ba.
  3. In this lesson, what does “你先吃吧。” mean?
    1. Go ahead and eat first.
    2. He is still waiting.
    3. You should head back first.
    Show answer · 查看答案Go ahead and eat first.
    Nǐ xiān chī ba. · Go ahead and eat first.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Let's meet tomorrow.”?
    1. 你觉得怎么样呢？
    2. 我们明天见吧。
    3. 这杯茶真香啊！
    Show answer · 查看答案我们明天见吧。
    我们明天见吧。 · Wǒ men míng tiān jiàn ba.
  5. In this lesson, what does “我的钥匙呢？” mean?
    1. Do not worry.
    2. Let’s go.
    3. Where are my keys?
    Show answer · 查看答案Where are my keys?
    Wǒ de yào shi ne? · Where are my keys?
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “He is still waiting.”?
    1. 他还在等呢。
    2. 你先回去吧。
    3. 请坐吧。
    Show answer · 查看答案他还在等呢。
    他还在等呢。 · Tā hái zài děng ne.
  7. In this lesson, what does “这杯茶真香啊！” mean?
    1. Go ahead and eat first.
    2. This tea smells wonderful!
    3. What do you think?
    Show answer · 查看答案This tea smells wonderful!
    Zhè bēi chá zhēn xiāng a! · This tea smells wonderful!
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Do not worry.”?
    1. 我们走吧。
    2. 我们明天见吧。
    3. 别着急啊。
    Show answer · 查看答案别着急啊。
    别着急啊。 · Bié zháo jí a.
  9. In this lesson, what does “你先回去吧。” mean?
    1. You should head back first.
    2. Please have a seat.
    3. Where are my keys?
    Show answer · 查看答案You should head back first.
    Nǐ xiān huí qù ba. · You should head back first.
  10. Which pinyin reads “你觉得怎么样呢？”?
    1. Tā hái zài děng ne.
    2. Nǐ jué de zěnmeyàng ne?
    3. Nǐ xiān chī ba.
    Show answer · 查看答案Nǐ jué de zěnmeyàng ne?
    你觉得怎么样呢？ means “What do you think?”
6. 除了：添加或排除 — Besides versus except
除了…以外，还 / 都

With 还, 除了…以外 adds an extra item. With 都 and a group, it often excludes one item from the group.

Notice: The following word changes the reading; check the whole sentence.

EXAMPLE 1 OF 10
除了茶以外，我还要水。
Chúle chá yǐwài, wǒ hái yào shuǐ.
Besides tea, I also want water.
EXAMPLE 2 OF 10
除了星期天以外，这家店每天都开门。
Chúle xīng qī tiān yǐwài, zhè jiā diàn měi tiān dōu kāi mén.
Except Sunday, this shop opens every day.
EXAMPLE 3 OF 10
除了米饭以外，我还要汤。
Chúle mǐ fàn yǐwài, wǒ hái yào tāng.
Besides rice, I want soup.
EXAMPLE 4 OF 10
除了他以外，我们都去过北京。
Chúle tā yǐwài, wǒ men dōu qù guo běi jīng.
Except him, we have all been to Beijing.
EXAMPLE 5 OF 10
除了中文，她还会说英文。
Chúle zhōng wén, tā hái huì shuō yīng wén.
Besides Chinese, she also speaks English.
EXAMPLE 6 OF 10
除了这张票以外，其他票都有效。
Chúle zhè zhāng piào yǐwài, qítā piào dōu yǒu xiào.
Except this ticket, all the other tickets are valid.
EXAMPLE 7 OF 10
除了咖啡，店里还卖茶。
Chúle kā fēi, diàn lǐ hái mài chá.
The shop sells tea as well as coffee.
EXAMPLE 8 OF 10
除了我，大家都听懂了。
Chúle wǒ, dà jiā dōu tīng dǒng le.
Everyone except me understood.
EXAMPLE 9 OF 10
除了酒店以外，附近还有一家超市。
Chúle jiǔ diàn yǐwài, fù jìn hái yǒu yì jiā chāo shì.
Besides the hotel, there is a supermarket nearby.
EXAMPLE 10 OF 10
除了红色的，我还想看看蓝色的。
Chúle hóngsè de, wǒ hái xiǎng kàn kàn lánsè de.
Besides the red one, I want to see the blue one.

Ten questions · 十道练习题

  1. What does 还 signal?
    1. past experience
    2. an additional item
    3. a denied purchase
    Show answer · 查看答案an additional item
    With 还, 除了…以外 adds an extra item. With 都 and a group, it often excludes one item from the group.
  2. Which Mandarin sentence says “Except Sunday, this shop opens every day.”?
    1. 除了中文，她还会说英文。
    2. 除了我，大家都听懂了。
    3. 除了星期天以外，这家店每天都开门。
    Show answer · 查看答案除了星期天以外，这家店每天都开门。
    除了星期天以外，这家店每天都开门。 · Chúle xīng qī tiān yǐwài, zhè jiā diàn měi tiān dōu kāi mén.
  3. In this lesson, what does “除了米饭以外，我还要汤。” mean?
    1. Besides rice, I want soup.
    2. Except this ticket, all the other tickets are valid.
    3. Besides the hotel, there is a supermarket nearby.
    Show answer · 查看答案Besides rice, I want soup.
    Chúle mǐ fàn yǐwài, wǒ hái yào tāng. · Besides rice, I want soup.
  4. Which Mandarin sentence says “Except him, we have all been to Beijing.”?
    1. 除了红色的，我还想看看蓝色的。
    2. 除了他以外，我们都去过北京。
    3. 除了咖啡，店里还卖茶。
    Show answer · 查看答案除了他以外，我们都去过北京。
    除了他以外，我们都去过北京。 · Chúle tā yǐwài, wǒ men dōu qù guo běi jīng.
  5. In this lesson, what does “除了中文，她还会说英文。” mean?
    1. Everyone except me understood.
    2. Besides tea, I also want water.
    3. Besides Chinese, she also speaks English.
    Show answer · 查看答案Besides Chinese, she also speaks English.
    Chúle zhōng wén, tā hái huì shuō yīng wén. · Besides Chinese, she also speaks English.
  6. Which Mandarin sentence says “Except this ticket, all the other tickets are valid.”?
    1. 除了这张票以外，其他票都有效。
    2. 除了酒店以外，附近还有一家超市。
    3. 除了星期天以外，这家店每天都开门。
    Show answer · 查看答案除了这张票以外，其他票都有效。
    除了这张票以外，其他票都有效。 · Chúle zhè zhāng piào yǐwài, qítā piào dōu yǒu xiào.
  7. In this lesson, what does “除了咖啡，店里还卖茶。” mean?
    1. Besides rice, I want soup.
    2. The shop sells tea as well as coffee.
    3. Besides the red one, I want to see the blue one.
    Show answer · 查看答案The shop sells tea as well as coffee.
    Chúle kā fēi, diàn lǐ hái mài chá. · The shop sells tea as well as coffee.
  8. Which Mandarin sentence says “Everyone except me understood.”?
    1. 除了茶以外，我还要水。
    2. 除了他以外，我们都去过北京。
    3. 除了我，大家都听懂了。
    Show answer · 查看答案除了我，大家都听懂了。
    除了我，大家都听懂了。 · Chúle wǒ, dà jiā dōu tīng dǒng le.
  9. In this lesson, what does “除了酒店以外，附近还有一家超市。” mean?
    1. Besides the hotel, there is a supermarket nearby.
    2. Except Sunday, this shop opens every day.
    3. Besides Chinese, she also speaks English.
    Show answer · 查看答案Besides the hotel, there is a supermarket nearby.
    Chúle jiǔ diàn yǐwài, fù jìn hái yǒu yì jiā chāo shì. · Besides the hotel, there is a supermarket nearby.
  10. Which pinyin reads “除了红色的，我还想看看蓝色的。”?
    1. Chúle zhè zhāng piào yǐwài, qítā piào dōu yǒu xiào.
    2. Chúle hóngsè de, wǒ hái xiǎng kàn kàn lánsè de.
    3. Chúle mǐ fàn yǐwài, wǒ hái yào tāng.
    Show answer · 查看答案Chúle hóngsè de, wǒ hái xiǎng kàn kàn lánsè de.
    除了红色的，我还想看看蓝色的。 means “Besides the red one, I want to see the blue one.”