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How to say “to give” in Chinese with 给 (gěi)

Subj. + 给 (gěi) + Target + Verb + Obj.

Verbs preceded by "给 (gěi)"

HSK 2Verb phrases

Rule structure

In the pattern 给 (gěi) + Person + Verb, 给 (gěi) indicates that the action is done for the benefit of, or directed at, that person.

Examples

我给你写信。

Wǒ gěi nǐ xiě xìn.

I write a letter to you.

Practice

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Frequently asked questions

How do you express “Verbs preceded by "给 (gěi)"” in Chinese?

Use the structure: Subj. + 给 (gěi) + Target + Verb + Obj.. For example: 我给你写信。 — “I write a letter to you.”.

What is an example sentence with this grammar rule?

我给你写信。 — “I write a letter to you.”.

Which HSK level includes this grammar rule?

This grammar rule is part of HSK 2.

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More HSK 2 grammar rules

Direction with "到 (dào) + place + 去 (qù)"

到 (dào) + Place + 去 (qù)

Verbing briefly with "一下 (yíxià)"

Verb + 一下 (yíxià)

Verbs followed by "给 (gěi)"

Subj. + Verb + 给 (gěi) + Recipient + Obj.

Special cases of "在 (zài)" following verbs

Verb + 在 (zài) + Place

Verbs that take double objects

Subj. + Verb + Indirect Obj. + Direct Obj.

Actions in a row

(Verb Phrase 1) + (Verb Phrase 2)

Negative commands with "不要 (búyào)"

不要 (búyào) + Verb

Reduplication of verbs

Verb + Verb