Log inSign up

HSK 6

不⋯⋯不⋯⋯

The structure without... without...

Explanation

The structure "不⋯⋯不⋯⋯" is used to express a conditional relationship between two parts, meaning that if the first part does not happen, there will be no result in the second part. This structure often has a proverbial character or emphasizes an inevitable result. Example: "不打不成交" means without fighting there is no friendship (indicating that a relationship only becomes close through conflict).

Examples

你们两个人可真是不打不成交。
nǐmenliǎnggèrénkězhēnshìbùdǎbùchéngjiāo。
这里的房价不问不知道，一问吓一跳。
zhèlǐdefángjiàbúwènbùzhīdào，yíwènxiàyítiào。
她今天一直在练习，不达标准不休息。
tājīntiānyìzhízàiliànxí，bùdábiāozhǔnbùxiūxi。

Learn “不⋯⋯不⋯⋯” effectively

The grammar point “不⋯⋯不⋯⋯” (The structure without... without...) 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.

Frequently asked questions