HSK 3
要是⋯⋯，就⋯⋯
yào shi ⋯ ⋯ ， jiù ⋯ ⋯
The conditional structure '要是...就...' (If...then...)
Explanation
要是……，就…… (yàoshi... jiù...) is a pair of conjunctions (words that join clauses) expressing a CONDITION - RESULT relationship, equivalent to "if... then...".
要是 (yàoshi = if) + condition，(subject +) 就 (jiù = then) + result. 要是 stands at the head of the condition clause, and 就 stands in the result clause, right before the verb.
When stating a condition that may occur and the corresponding result if that condition comes true (要是有时间就去 = if there's time then go). 要是 has a colloquial, casual flavor.
要是 and 如果 (rúguǒ) have the same meaning ("if"), but 要是 leans toward everyday conversation, while 如果 is more formal; both usually pair with 就.
forgetting 就 in the result clause (the conditional sentence sounds incomplete); placing 就 in the wrong spot (remember 就 comes after the subject, right before the verb, not at the head of the clause).
Examples
If I'm not happy, I'll sing out loud.
If you have time tomorrow, then come with me to the Great Wall.
Practice
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Learn “要是⋯⋯，就⋯⋯” effectively
The grammar point “要是⋯⋯，就⋯⋯” (The conditional structure '要是...就...' (If...then...)) is one of the key structures at HSK 3. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.
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