HSK 5
没有⋯⋯就没有⋯⋯
méi yǒu ⋯ ⋯ jiù méi yǒu ⋯ ⋯
Structure 'Without... there is no...'
Explanation
This is a contracted compound sentence (紧缩复句 jǐnsuō fùjù: a compound sentence that condenses two clauses into one, without a comma separating them), expressing a relationship of prerequisite condition: the first thing is the root, and without it the second thing cannot exist either.
没有 (méiyǒu: without) + A + 就 (jiù: then) + 没有 + B. 没有 is repeated in both clauses, joined by 就.
没有你的帮助就没有我的成功 (without your help there would be no success of mine).
When you want to emphasize that A is the essential condition/foundation for having B, usually carrying a strongly affirmative tone, often found in written usage, speeches, expressions of gratitude, and maxims.
Vietnamese learners often add a comma or the conjunction 如果 (rúguǒ: if) (this pattern is a contracted sentence, needing neither 如果 nor a comma). Also remember to keep the character 就 in the middle and to repeat 没有 fully in both clauses.
Examples
Without your help there would be no success of mine.
Without water there would be no existence of life.
Without everyday effort there would be no achievement today.
Practice
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Learn “没有⋯⋯就没有⋯⋯” effectively
The grammar point “没有⋯⋯就没有⋯⋯” (Structure 'Without... there is no...') 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.
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