故意 (gù yì) — deliberately, on purpose

Subj. + 故意 (gùyì) + Verb

HSK 43.0

Pattern diagram

Who / what故意Action

Rule structure

The adverb 故意 (gùyì) means "deliberately, on purpose" and comes before the verb. It stresses that an action was done consciously, not by accident. The tone can be neutral or reproachful, but it is not always malicious.

Examples

他故意迟到了。

Tā gùyì chídào le.

He was late on purpose.

妹妹故意不接我的电话。

Mèimei gùyì bù jiē wǒ de diànhuà.

My younger sister purposely didn't answer my call.

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Words from this rule

Frequently asked questions

How do you say “deliberately, on purpose” in Chinese with 故意?

Use the structure: Subj. + 故意 (gùyì) + Verb. For example: 他故意迟到了。 — “He was late on purpose”.

What is an example sentence with this grammar rule?

他故意迟到了。 — “He was late on purpose”.

Which HSK level includes this grammar rule?

This grammar rule is part of HSK 3.0 Level 4.

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More HSK 3.0 Level 4 grammar rules