HSK 5
X归X，Y归Y
X guī X ， Y guī Y
Structure X归X，Y归Y
Explanation
X归X，Y归Y (X guī X, Y guī Y) is a fixed structure (固定格式 gùdìng géshì - a set sentence frame used repeatedly) used to emphasize that two matters/two aspects are SEPARATE and must not be equated or allowed to affect one another. It means "X is X's business, Y is Y's business".
X + 归 (guī) + X，Y + 归 (guī) + Y. The words before and after 归 are exactly identical (想归想 - thinking is thinking). X and Y are usually verbs or nouns that are opposite or easily conflated (想/做 think/do, 朋友/生意 friendship/business). 归 (guī) here means "to be attributed to, to belong to".
When you want to draw a clear separation, admitting one aspect but affirming it does not affect the other (吵归吵…大家还是好朋友 - quarreling is quarreling, but we're still good friends). It is usually followed by a sentence stating a conclusion.
Vietnamese learners often use two DIFFERENT words on the two sides of 归, e.g. 想归做. Wrong. The words before and after 归 must be IDENTICAL: 想归想, 做归做. This is the crux of the structure.
Examples
Thinking is one thing, doing is another; the results are completely different.
Quarreling is quarreling, squabbling is squabbling, but everyone is still good friends.
Friendship is friendship, business is business; it can't be free.
Practice
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Learn “X归X，Y归Y” effectively
The grammar point “X归X，Y归Y” (Structure X归X，Y归Y) 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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