HSK 5
没A没B
méi A méi B
Structure 没A没B (neither A nor B)
Explanation
没A没B (méi A méi B) is a form of four-character idiom (四字格 sìzìgé, a fixed four-syllable phrase) used to negate or emphasize the absence of both elements A and B. A and B are usually two words of the same type or opposite in meaning.
没 (méi = not/not have) + A + 没 (méi) + B, where A and B are two symmetrical verbs or nouns (e.g. 吃 chī eat / 喝 hē drink; 大 dà big / 小 xiǎo small).
When you want to emphasize a complete lack (没吃没喝 = neither eating nor drinking) or to complain about an attitude or manner of behavior (没大没小 = not distinguishing seniors from juniors, disrespectful). It usually carries a complaining, colloquial nuance.
Vietnamese learners often pick A and B that are not symmetrical (different word types), making the phrase sound unnatural; you should choose two words on the same semantic side as in the fixed patterns.
Examples
I haven't eaten or drunk all morning; I'm starving to death.
This child talks with no respect for elders and betters, not the slightest bit of manners.
Practice
Test your understanding with a quick quiz
Learn “没A没B” effectively
The grammar point “没A没B” (Structure 没A没B (neither A nor B)) is one of the key structures at HSK 5. 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.