Log inSign up

HSK 7

X了又Y， Y了又X

Structure of repeated action: X了又Y， Y了又X

Explanation

This structure expresses an action repeated many times, usually emphasizing persistence, meticulousness or irritation. 'X了又Y' means 'finished doing X then did Y again', and 'Y了又X' repeats similarly. For example: '装了又拆，拆了又装' (assembled then took apart, took apart then assembled) shows the repeated effort to achieve a good result. It is usually used with verbs of concrete action and expresses a prolonged process.

Examples

他装了又拆，拆了又装，修理了一整天。
tāzhuāngleyòuchāi，chāileyòuzhuāng，xiūlǐleyìzhěngtiān。
小朋友写了又擦，擦了又写，正在认真地练习写汉字。
xiǎopéngyǒuxiěleyòucā，cāleyòuxiě，zhèngzàirènzhēndìliànxíxiěhànzì。

Learn “X了又Y， Y了又X” effectively

The grammar point “X了又Y， Y了又X” (Structure of repeated action: X了又Y， Y了又X) 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