01 / READExamples
Highlighted words show the grammar pattern. Reveal the English translation when needed.
午饭你想吃面条还是饺子？
Would you like noodles or dumplings for lunch?
吃 applies to both food choices.
我们坐地铁还是走路？
Shall we take the underground or walk?
Each alternative has its own verb: 坐 and 走.
你想先参观博物馆还是先休息？
Would you like to visit the museum first or have a rest first?
还是 can connect two complete action phrases.
02 / UNDERSTANDHow it works
Sentence pattern
Use 还是 when a question offers alternatives: noodles or dumplings, the underground or walking, a visit or a rest. You are asking which option the listener chooses, so an answer will usually name one of the options.
Do not add 吗 to a straightforward 还是 choice question. If the alternatives share a verb, say it once before them; if the actions differ, give each action its own verb. 或者 normally joins alternatives in a statement rather than asking this kind of direct choice question.
COMMON MISTAKESWhat to watch for
Avoid你想坐窗边还是坐门边吗？
Use你想坐窗边还是坐门边？
The two alternatives already create a choice question. Leave off 吗 when asking which seat the person wants.
03 / PRACTISECheck your understanding
04 / VOCABULARYLesson vocabulary
| Chinese | Pinyin | Meaning here |
|---|---|---|
| 面条 | miàntiáo | noodles |
| 饺子 | jiǎozi | dumplings |
| 地铁 | dìtiě | underground; metro |
Choose a Chinese word for dictionary definitions, examples and stroke order. The meanings above are specific to this lesson.
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The TSV contains Chinese words, pinyin and meanings. Import instructions are below.
Written for this website. Levels indicate difficulty, not official HSK placement. The app covers this topic with different wording and exercises.
