HSK 2
什么的
shén me de
The structure '什么的' for listing
Explanation
什么的 (shénme de) is a phrase placed at the END of a list to mean 'and things like that', 'and so on', helping the speaker avoid listing everything.
(list a few things) + 什么的.
水果、面包什么的 (fruit, bread and so on).
Use it in spoken language, in casual situations, when you cite a few typical examples and imply there are more things of the same kind. It comes after a noun or after a whole verb phrase (做点儿练习什么的 - do some exercises and so on).
Vietnamese learners often use it in formal writing - not advisable, since 什么的 carries a casual, colloquial flavor. Also, 什么的 is placed only at the END of a list, never inserted in the middle.
Examples
Before the exam you should do some more practice exercises and so on.
I went to the supermarket and bought some fruit, bread and the like.
Practice
Test your understanding with a quick quiz
Learn “什么的” effectively
The grammar point “什么的” (The structure '什么的' for listing) is one of the key structures at HSK 2. 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.
You can also view the full “” lesson to understand the related grammar and vocabulary more deeply.