HSK 4
程度副词：格外、极、极其
chéng dù fù cí ： gé wài 、 jí 、 jí qí
Adverbs of degree: 格外, 极, 极其
Explanation
格外 (géwài), 极 (jí), and 极其 (jíqí) are all degree adverbs (words that modify a verb or adjective) expressing a very high degree, meaning 'extremely, exceedingly'.
格外 / 极其 + adjective/stative verb (placed BEFORE it); 极 (jí), however, usually comes AFTER an adjective + 了, e.g. 好极了 (hǎo jí le = extremely good).
when you want to stress a degree higher than 很 (hěn = very). 格外 (géwài) emphasizes 'more outstanding than usual'; 极 (jí) is colloquial, usually as 极了 following the adjective; 极其 (jíqí) is formal, used in written language.
格外 implies a covert comparison with the normal level (today happier than usual); 极 / 极其 simply stress the utmost degree, with no implication of comparison.
Vietnamese learners often place 极 before an adjective like 极好 in colloquial speech; correct colloquial usage should be 好极了. Also, do not say 很格外, because 格外 already carries a high-degree meaning and does not take 很 (hěn = very) in front of it.
Examples
The teacher is exceptionally happy today.
These characters are extremely small; I can't see them clearly at all.
The principal is an exceedingly responsible person.
Practice
Test your understanding with a quick quiz
Learn “程度副词：格外、极、极其” effectively
The grammar point “程度副词：格外、极、极其” (Adverbs of degree: 格外, 极, 极其) 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.
You can also view the full “” lesson to understand the related grammar and vocabulary more deeply.