HSK 6
左A右B
zuǒ A yòu B
The structure 左A右B
Explanation
左A右B (zuǒ A yòu B) is a fixed four-character pattern (固定格式 gùdìng géshì = a ready-made character template), in which A and B are usually two verbs (either synonymous or of the same type) inserted between 左 (zuǒ, left) and 右 (yòu, right).
左 + A + 右 + B, for example 左躲右闪 (dodging left and right), 左思右想 (thinking left, thinking right = thinking over and over), 左瞧右看 (looking this way and that).
used when you want to describe an action repeated many times, going from one direction to another, emphasizing repetition, thoroughness, or long-windedness. It creates a vivid image, commonly found in storytelling, in both speech and writing. The meaning "left/right" here usually no longer carries the literal sense but only indicates repetition.
A and B must be familiar, meaningful set combinations (左思右想, 左顾右盼…); you cannot freely insert any arbitrary verb; beginners often translate literally "on the left... on the right..." while missing the meaning "over and over", which gives the Vietnamese sentence the wrong nuance.
Examples
He dodged left and right, and finally kicked the ball into the goal.
On his first time out, he was so excited that he looked this way and that, his eyes not enough to take it all in.
He thought it over and over, and felt that this matter could not just end like this.
Practice
Test your understanding with a quick quiz
Learn “左A右B” effectively
The grammar point “左A右B” (The structure 左A右B) is one of the key structures at HSK 6. 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.