HSK 4
无标记
wú biāo jì
Conditional sentence without a connective
Explanation
This is an "unmarked" conditional sentence (无标记 wú biāo jì): a form of contracted compound sentence (紧缩复句 jǐn suō fù jù — a compressed compound sentence whose two clauses are joined together without a comma) expressing a condition–result relationship WITHOUT using any conjunction (word linking clauses) such as 如果 (rú guǒ, if), 要是 (yào shi, if), …的话 (…de huà, if).
[condition clause] + [result clause], the two clauses placed right next to each other, with the implied "if…then" understood. For example 你有事你先走 (nǐ yǒu shì nǐ xiān zǒu) = (if) you have something to do (then) you go first.
in everyday spoken language, when you want to speak quickly, concisely, and naturally; the conditional relationship is clear enough that the connective is dropped.
it has the same meaning as a sentence with 如果…就… (if…then…) but with all connectives dropped; the unmarked form carries a colloquial, intimate, more decisive tone.
beginners often feel there is a "missing connective" and try to insert 如果/就, which destroys the natural colloquial quality. With this form, just place the two clauses side by side; the intonation and context will indicate the conditional relationship on their own.
Examples
If you have something to do, you go first.
You're not afraid, but I am.
If you want to go, then you go.
Practice
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Learn “无标记” effectively
The grammar point “无标记” (Conditional sentence without a connective) is one of the key structures at HSK 4. 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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