HSK 2

动词重叠:AA、A一A、A了A、ABAB

Verb reduplication (AA, A一A, A了A, ABAB)

Explanation

Verb reduplication is used to express an action done lightly, as a try, or over a short time, in a not-too-serious way. The 'AA' and 'A一A' structures are used for monosyllabic verbs such as '看看' (take a look), '想想' (think a bit), with similar meaning, conveying a gentler, more polite tone. 'A了A' inserts '了' in the middle to indicate the action happened briefly, for example '看了看' (took a quick look). For two-syllable verbs, the whole verb is repeated as 'ABAB', for example '介绍介绍' (introduce briefly).

Examples

我能用用你的手机吗?
néngyòngyòngdeshǒuma
你想一想这个字的意思。
xiǎngyixiǎngzhègede
他看了看我,没说话。
kànlekànméishuōhuà
请介绍介绍你的朋友。
qǐngjièshàojièshàodepéngyǒu

Learn “动词重叠:AA、A一A、A了A、ABAB” effectively

The grammar point “动词重叠:AA、A一A、A了A、ABAB” (Verb reduplication (AA, A一A, A了A, ABAB)) 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.

Frequently asked questions