HSK 7
反倒
fǎn dǎo
Reversing the logic with 反倒
Explanation
反倒 (fǎndào) is a mood adverb (an adverb expressing the attitude or nuance of a sentence), meaning 'on the contrary, instead', indicating a result that runs counter to ordinary expectation, with a nuance of surprise.
(A premise, often with 明明 míngmíng 'clearly' or 越…越… yuè…yuè… 'the more…the more…') + Subject + 反倒 (fǎndào) + predicate.
When the reality turns out contrary to common sense/expectation; it often goes with 明明 (míngmíng) or the 越…越… structure to highlight the reversal.
反倒 (fǎndào) and 反而 (fǎn'ér) are nearly synonymous and interchangeable; 反倒 leans slightly more colloquial, while 反而 is commonly used in both speech and writing.
Do not use 反倒 when the two clauses run in the same direction and follow logic (only use it when there is a contrast/reversal); and 反倒 stands before the verb, not at the head of the sentence like a conjunction.
Examples
It is clearly your fault, so why do you turn around and blame me instead?
The more difficult the situation, the more he is actually able to persevere.
Practice
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Learn “反倒” effectively
The grammar point “反倒” (Reversing the logic with 反倒) 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.
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