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How to say “always” in Chinese: 一直 vs 一向

一直 (yìzhí): continuously (from past to present) / 一向 (yíxiàng): consistently (habit)

Comparing "一直 (yìzhí)" and "一向 (yíxiàng)"

HSK 6Adverbs

Rule structure

一直 (yìzhí) emphasizes uninterrupted continuity. 一向 (yíxiàng) emphasizes a consistent habit or nature over time.

Examples

我一直在等你。 / 他一向很节俭。

Wǒ yìzhí zài děng nǐ. / Tā yíxiàng hěn jiéjiǎn.

I have been waiting for you all along. / He has always been frugal.

Practice

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Frequently asked questions

How do you express “Comparing "一直 (yìzhí)" and "一向 (yíxiàng)"” in Chinese?

Use the structure: 一直 (yìzhí): continuously (from past to present) / 一向 (yíxiàng): consistently (habit). For example: 我一直在等你。 / 他一向很节俭。 — “I have been waiting for you all along. / He has always been frugal.”.

What is an example sentence with this grammar rule?

我一直在等你。 / 他一向很节俭。 — “I have been waiting for you all along. / He has always been frugal.”.

Which HSK level includes this grammar rule?

This grammar rule is part of HSK 6.

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