For 2025, we are introducing a new series on our platforms: Chinese Grammar. Whether you’re just starting your Chinese language journey or preparing for advanced-level fluency, this series will cover essential grammar points from different HSK levels, the official standard for Mandarin proficiency.
In the first blogpost we will explain how to use negative commands, in particular “别” (bié). The word “别” is one of the first and most practical grammar points for Mandarin learners. By understanding its structure, tone, and usage in different contexts, you can confidently use it to give polite reminders, issue firm warnings, or stop unwanted actions. It works similarly to the English word “don’t” and is one of the simplest ways to express what someone should not do.
The basic structure of a sentence using “别” is:
别 + Verb (+ Object)
This structure is straightforward and one of the easiest ways to form negative commands in Chinese.
- 别: This is the key word that translates to “don’t.” It tells the listener not to perform an action.
- Verb: The action that the speaker wants to prohibit.
- (+ Object): This is optional. If the action involves something or someone (an object), you can include it after the verb.
Examples:
- 别说话！ (bié shuō huà) — Don’t talk!
- 别 negates the action 说话 (shuō huà), which means “to speak.”
- 别告诉他们！ (bié gào sù tā men!) — Don’t tell them!
- 别 negates the action 告诉 (gào sù), which means “to tell.”
- 他们 (tā men): “Them” — the object, referring to the people you don’t want the speaker to tell.
- 别拖到最后准备，会让你紧张。 (Bié tuō dào zuìhòu zhǔnbèi, huì ràng nǐ jǐnzhāng.) — Don’t wait until the last moment to prepare; it will stress you out.
- 别 negates the action 拖 (tuō ), which means “to delay “
- 最后准备 (zuìhòu zhunbèi): “last moment preparation” — the object
Now that you know how to use “别”, try practicing it in your conversations! Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll explore more essential Chinese grammar points. Happy learning!