Structure: 原来 + Noun/Adjective/ [verb phrase] Meaning: Here 原来 means “originally” or “former”. Examples: 你 原来 的 发型 很 可爱， 剪 了 太 可惜 了！ Nǐ yuán lái de fā xínɡ hěn kě ài Read More

Structure: Subject+看起来+Predicate Meaning: 看起来 is the opposite in that it emphasizes subjectivity, paying close attention to how the observer feels. Examples: 你 今天 看起来 很 高兴。 nǐ jīn tiān kàn qǐ lái hěn ɡāo Read More

Structure: 到底+question phrase Meaning: 到底 can be used to mean “on earth”, where it is used to emphasize a question. In this sense, 到底 is similar to 究竟. Examples: 1. 内奸 到底 是 谁？ Read More

Structure: 虽然 + A + 但 + 到底 + B + C Meaning: In this structure, A and B are reasons or characteristics, and C is a result or conclusion. Examples: 1. 虽然 他 Read More

Structure: 总 + [negative word] + Verb Meaning: When 总 is used together with a negating word (like 不 or 没), it often has a tone of speculation, judgement or suggestion. The sentence often Read More

Structure: 可+verb Meaning: 可 used to emphasize a verb Example: 1. 哇，这 个 糖醋 里脊 可 好吃 了！ wā，zhè ɡè tánɡcù lǐjǐ kě hǎochī le！ (The speaker never dreamt that sweet and sour pork Read More

Structure: 不如 + Verb/[verb phrase] Meaning: When facing a choice, 不如 can also be used to mean “might as well” to emphasize the choice is the better of two options. When used like this, Read More

Structure: A (verb) + 不如 + B + adjective/verb Meaning: When an adjective or verb is added to the structure it can then be used to mean A is not as ‘adjective’ as B, Read More

Structure: 虽然 + A + 但 + 毕竟 + B + C Meaning: A and B are reasons or characteristics, and C is a result or conclusion.It’s a bit more complex, so pay attention Read More

Structure: Number + 多 + Measure word + (noun) Meaning: A number in excess of a certain amount is expressed by adding “多” (duō) to the end of a number. This is usually translated Read More