HSK 7
不带关联词语
bú dài guān lián cí yǔ
Not using connectives
Explanation
This is a compound sentence without connectives (不带关联词语 bù dài guānlián cíyǔ), i.e. the clauses are placed side by side without any conjunction (a word linking clauses) such as 和 (hé = and), 而 (ér = whereas), 然后 (ránhòu = then), 但是 (dànshì = but); the semantic relationship is understood through context and the parallel structure.
Clause 1 (,/。) Clause 2 (,/。) Clause 3 ... — the clauses are usually parallel or progressive, linking together on their own through content (e.g. 草绿了，花开了，冰雪也开始融化了 = the grass turned green, the flowers bloomed, the ice and snow began to melt too).
Often used in written language, especially in lyrical prose and poetry, to create a short, rapid, image-rich rhythm that highlights natural progression or enumeration.
Thinking every compound sentence must have a connective (in fact Chinese permits omission when the context is clear enough); conversely, overusing this connective-less style in formal argumentative writing, which makes the logical relationship between clauses vague and hard to follow.
Examples
The wind, fiercer now. The snow, heavier now. With every step we advanced, it grew all the more arduous.
Long awaited, the east wind has come, and the footsteps of spring draw near. All things are like newborn children, soft and tender. The grass has turned green, the flowers have bloomed, and the ice and snow on the river's surface have begun to melt too.
Practice
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Learn “不带关联词语” effectively
The grammar point “不带关联词语” (Not using connectives) 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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