HSK 7

程度补语3

Degree complement 3 (程度补语3)

Explanation

This structure is used to emphasize the high degree of the preceding adjective or verb. First, the form 'adjective/verb + 得 + 不行' expresses that something reaches an unbearable degree, for example '兴奋得不行' means excited to the point of being unable to bear it. Second, 'adjective/verb + 得 + 要命/要死' also emphasizes a similarly high degree, but with a more hyperbolic tone, as '大得要命' means terribly big. Both are usually used in colloquial speech to add expressiveness.

Examples

(1)形容词/动词+得+不行
1xíngróng/dòng++xíng
终于要去旅游了,儿子兴奋得不行。
zhōngyàoyóuleérzixīngfènxíng
上学时我对体育课也是讨厌得不行。
shàngxuéshíduìshìtǎoyànxíng
(2)形容词/动词+得+要命/要死
2xíngróng/dòng++yàomìng/yào
他人不大,但是脾气大得要命。
réndànshìyàomìng
我最近太忙了,每天累得要死。
zuìjìntàimángleměitiānlèiyào

Learn “程度补语3” effectively

The grammar point “程度补语3” (Degree complement 3 (程度补语3)) is one of the key structures at HSK 7. 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