01 / READExamples
Highlighted words show the grammar pattern. Reveal the English translation when needed.
收音机里的人说得太快，我听不懂。
The person on the radio speaks too fast; I cannot understand.
The speed prevents the listener from reaching understanding.
这个字我看不懂，你能解释一下吗？
I cannot understand this character; could you explain it?
看不懂 refers to understanding what is seen or read.
我听得懂这个问题，可是不知道怎么回答。
I can understand the question, but I do not know how to answer.
Understanding the question and knowing its answer are separate abilities.
02 / UNDERSTANDHow it works
Sentence pattern
懂 describes understanding. After 听 or 看, it names the result of listening or reading. In 听不懂 and 看不懂, 不 between the verb and 懂 says that the result cannot be achieved in the situation.
The positive potential form uses 得 in the same position: 听得懂 or 看得懂. This is different from reporting a failed event with 没听懂, meaning that you did not understand what you heard on that occasion. Choose the potential form when ability or the conditions make understanding difficult.
COMMON MISTAKESWhat to watch for
Avoid我听懂不这句话。
Use我听不懂这句话。
In the negative potential form, 不 goes between 听 and the result 懂. The object 这句话 follows the complete verb–complement phrase.
03 / PRACTISECheck your understanding
04 / VOCABULARYLesson vocabulary
| Chinese | Pinyin | Meaning here |
|---|---|---|
| 解释 | jiěshì | explain |
| 录音 | lùyīn | recording |
| 回答 | huídá | answer |
Choose a Chinese word for dictionary definitions, examples and stroke order. The meanings above are specific to this lesson.
What is in the download?
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.
