HSK 7

自A自B

自A自B (an idiom expressing doing things oneself, regardless of others)

Explanation

The structure '自A自B' (自A自B) is a type of idiom in Chinese, used to indicate doing something by oneself without needing or caring about others' opinions or help. It usually carries a slightly negative meaning, denoting selfishness, deciding by oneself or bearing the consequences oneself. For example, '自说自话' means 'to talk to oneself' (a one-man show), '自作自受' means 'as you make your bed, so you must lie in it' (you bear the consequences you bring on yourself).

Examples

一路上老板自说自话唠叨了半天。
shanglǎobǎnshuōhuàláodaolebàntiān
想到你对我们工作的破坏,我应该让你自作自受才对。
xiǎngdàoduìmengōngzuòdehuàiyīnggāiràngzuòshòucáiduì

Learn “自A自B” effectively

The grammar point “自A自B” (自A自B (an idiom expressing doing things oneself, regardless of others)) 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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