How to say “always” in Chinese with 总是 (zǒngshì)
总是 (zǒngshì) + Predicate
总是 (zǒng shì) — always
总是 (zǒngshì) + Predicate
HSK 3Adverbs总是 (zǒng shì) — always
Rule structure
总是 (zǒngshì) means "always" and expresses a high frequency or constant state, often for habits or recurring situations.
Rule structure
总是 (zǒngshì) means "always" and expresses a high frequency or constant state, often for habits or recurring situations.
Examples
他总是很忙。
Tā zǒngshì hěn máng.
He is always very busy.
Examples
他总是很忙。
Tā zǒngshì hěn máng.
He is always very busy.
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Frequently asked questions
How do you say “always” in Chinese with 总是?
Use the structure: 总是 (zǒngshì) + Predicate. For example: 他总是很忙。 — “He is always very busy.”.
What is an example sentence with this grammar rule?
他总是很忙。 — “He is always very busy.”.
Which HSK level includes this grammar rule?
This grammar rule is part of HSK 3.
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More HSK 3 grammar rules
一边 — doing two things at once
一边 (yìbiān) + Verb 1, 一边 (yìbiān) + Verb 2
终于 — finally
Subj. + 终于 (zhōngyú) + Verb + 了 (le)
几乎 — nearly, almost
Subj. + 几乎 (jīhū) + Verb/Adj.
又 — again in the past
又 (yòu) + Verb + 了 (le)
才 — lateness, “not until”
Subj. + Time + 才 (cái) + Verb
只 — only, just
Subj. + 只 (zhǐ) + Verb + Obj.
先 — first… then…
先 (xiān)……, 再 (zài)……
老是 — always (complaining)
Subj. + 老是 (lǎoshì) + Verb/Adj.