HSK 7
凡
fán
凡 (fán) – All, every
Explanation
凡 (fán) is an adverb (a word that modifies a verb or adjective) meaning "all, every, any that is," used to generalize about every member within a certain scope. It is often paired with 都 (dōu, "all/both") in the following clause to state a general rule or principle.
凡 (fán) + [object/condition] + 都 (dōu) + [conclusion]. For example, 凡事 (fán shì) = "everything, all matters"; 凡…的人都… = "anyone who is… all…".
mostly in formal/written usage (found in books and documents, rarely in speech), such as laws, regulations, and expository or argumentative texts; it sounds sweeping and principled.
凡 emphasizes generalizing over an entire scope and carries a formal tone, whereas 所有 (suǒyǒu, "all") and 每 (měi, "every") are neutral and can be used in speech as well.
forgetting 都 in the following clause (the sentence feels incomplete); using 凡 in everyday conversation in place of 所有/每, which makes the sentence sound stiff and unnatural.
Examples
In all matters, it is enough to simply do your best on your own.
Every citizen who has reached the age of eighteen has the right to vote and to be elected.
Practice
Test your understanding with a quick quiz
Learn “凡” effectively
The grammar point “凡” (凡 (fán) – All, every) 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.