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How to say “like” or “as if” in Chinese with 跟 (gēn) … 似的 (shìde)

跟 (gēn) + Noun + 似的 (shìde) — as if, like

Expressing "similar to" with "跟 (gēn) … 似的 (shìde)"

HSK 6Sentence patterns

Rule structure

跟 (gēn)…似的 (shìde) is a colloquial simile structure meaning "like, as if". It describes similarity. 似的 (shìde) is often pronounced shìde.

Examples

他高兴得跟孩子似的。

Tā gāoxìng de gēn háizi shìde.

He is happy like a child.

Practice

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Frequently asked questions

How do you express “Expressing "similar to" with "跟 (gēn) … 似的 (shìde)"” in Chinese?

Use the structure: 跟 (gēn) + Noun + 似的 (shìde) — as if, like. For example: 他高兴得跟孩子似的。 — “He is happy like a child.”.

What is an example sentence with this grammar rule?

他高兴得跟孩子似的。 — “He is happy like a child.”.

Which HSK level includes this grammar rule?

This grammar rule is part of HSK 6.

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More HSK 6 grammar rules

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Adding emphasis with "非 (fēi) … 不可 (bùkě)"

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