HSK 1
主谓句1：动词谓语句
zhǔ wèi jù 1 ： dòng cí wèi yǔ jù
Subject-predicate sentences with a verb as the predicate
Explanation
A subject-predicate sentence whose predicate (the part stating the action or quality of the subject) is a verb (动词谓语句 dòngcí wèiyǔ jù) is the most basic sentence type, using a verb to express the action of the subject (the doer, at the start of the sentence).
Subject + verb + object (the target of the action, e.g. "book" in "buy a book") → 我 (wǒ - I) + 买 (mǎi - to buy) + 一个面包 (a piece of bread). This is a fixed order in Chinese, the same as English (subject - verb - object).
for any sentence stating an action.
when making a negative, place 不 (bù - not) BEFORE the verb: 他不去医院 (he does not go to the hospital), not at the end of the sentence. Note that 不 is used for the present/future/habits, while 没 (méi) is used to negate an action that has already occurred — beginners often confuse these two words.
Examples
I buy a piece of bread.
He does not go to the hospital.
Practice
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Learn “主谓句1：动词谓语句” effectively
The grammar point “主谓句1：动词谓语句” (Subject-predicate sentences with a verb as the predicate) is one of the key structures at HSK 1. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.
Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.
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