Chinese Grammar Core Course — Unit 02
Unit 02
Predicates: noun, adjective, and verb sentences
A noun predicate normally needs 是, while an adjective can be the predicate directly. 很 often links a neutral description rather than simply meaning “very”.
Build the predicate first, then decide which information belongs before it. English lets many adverbials drift; Chinese rewards a stable frame.
Do not translate word by word. First identify the main verb, then attach time, place, negation, or aspect in the order shown by the pattern.
Pattern to hear
她是老师。她很忙。
Meaning in context: She is a teacher. She is busy.
How to use it
A noun predicate normally needs 是, while an adjective can be the predicate directly. 很 often links a neutral description rather than simply meaning “very”.
他是医生。她很忙。
Build the predicate first, then decide which information belongs before it. English lets many adverbials drift; Chinese rewards a stable frame.
Do not translate word by word. First identify the main verb, then attach time, place, negation, or aspect in the order shown by the pattern.
Self-check
- How to use it
- Underline the main verb first. Then place time and location in front of it instead of repairing the sentence after translation.
- Build it yourself
- Describe one routine in three versions: bare subject–verb–object, then add time, then add place.
- Self-check
- Can you remove one phrase and still hear a complete sentence spine?
Contrast and decision
For English speakers, the main adjustment is not basic SVO order but keeping time, place, aspect markers, and complements in their Chinese positions.
What to notice: Predicates: noun, adjective, and verb sentences
More examples to read aloud
- 我是学生。
- 这个很贵。
- 天气很好。
Read the pattern, cover the translation, and rebuild the sentence from its meaning. Return to the detailed articles for exceptions and nuance.
Build it yourself
Make one identity sentence and one description of a person or thing.
用「是」介绍一个人，再用形容词描述这个人。
Check the answer only after you have said or written your version.
Self-check
Model and reason
A noun predicate normally needs 是, while an adjective can be the predicate directly. 很 often links a neutral description rather than simply meaning “very”.
我姐姐是老师。她很认真。
Read the pattern, cover the translation, and rebuild the sentence from its meaning. Return to the detailed articles for exceptions and nuance.