HSK 2

还是⋯⋯吧

还是⋯⋯吧 (it'd be better to...)

Explanation

This structure is used to give a gentle piece of advice or to suggest a better option. You place '还是' before an action or choice, then add '吧' at the end of the sentence. It is similar to 'why don't you...' or 'you'd better... then' in English. For example: '打车太贵了,你还是坐地铁吧' means 'Taking a taxi is too expensive; you'd better take the subway'.

Examples

打车太贵了,你还是坐地铁吧。
chētàiguìleháishìzuòtiěba
外边下雨了,我们还是在房间看电视吧。
wàibiānxiàlemenháishìzàifángjiānkàndiànshìba

Learn “还是⋯⋯吧” effectively

The grammar point “还是⋯⋯吧” (还是⋯⋯吧 (it'd be better to...)) 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