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How to say “verbing around” with 来 (lái) and 去 (qù)

Verb 1 + 来 (lái) + Verb 1 + 去 (qù)

Using "来 (lái)" and "去 (qù)" when "verbing around"

HSK 5Complements

Rule structure

来 (lái) and 去 (qù) can be used after the same verb to indicate that the action is repeated in different directions or considered back and forth. This pattern emphasizes indecision or prolonged action.

Examples

他想来想去，还是没决定。

Tā xiǎng lái xiǎng qù, háishì méi juédìng.

He thought it over and over, but still didn’t decide.

Practice

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Frequently asked questions

How do you express “Using "来 (lái)" and "去 (qù)" when "verbing around"” in Chinese?

Use the structure: Verb 1 + 来 (lái) + Verb 1 + 去 (qù). For example: 他想来想去，还是没决定。 — “He thought it over and over, but still didn’t decide.”.

What is an example sentence with this grammar rule?

他想来想去，还是没决定。 — “He thought it over and over, but still didn’t decide.”.

Which HSK level includes this grammar rule?

This grammar rule is part of HSK 5.

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