Processing keyword: 以至于 (yǐzhìyú) - So... that...

Mandarin Grammar Point: 以至于 (yǐzhìyú) - So... that...

Grammar Point: 以至于 (yǐzhìyú) - So... that...

1. Introduction

The Chinese phrase "以至于" (yǐzhìyú) is often used to express a result that follows from a previous action or situation. It translates to "so... that..." in English, indicating a consequence or an extreme degree of something.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The conjunction "以至于" is used to illustrate that one situation causes or leads to an extreme or significant result.
• Structure: The structure typically follows this pattern:
  • Situation + 以至于 + Result

Formation Diagram

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|      Situation        |
-------------------------
           |
           v
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|      以至于           |
-------------------------
           |
           v
-------------------------
|      Result           |
-------------------------

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

"以至于" is similar to other expressions like "因此" (yīncǐ) meaning "therefore" and "所以" (suǒyǐ) meaning "so". However, "以至于" specifically emphasizes the extent or severity of the resulting situation more than the others.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:
   • Sentence: 这次投资回报率太高，以至于我们决定增加投资。
   • Translation: The return on this investment is so high that we decided to increase the investment.
2. Informal Context:
   • Sentence: 他吃得太多，以至于肚子疼。
   • Translation: He ate so much that his stomach hurts.
3. Spoken Context:
   • Sentence: 她忙到没时间休息，以至于累得不行。
   • Translation: She is so忙 that she is completely exhausted.
4. Written Context:
   • Sentence: 那场比赛非常重要，以至于大家都很紧张。
   • Translation: That match was so important that everyone was very nervous.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Chinese culture, expressions that denote cause and effect, like "以至于", can reflect the high value placed on diligence and results, particularly in academic and professional settings.

Idiomatic Expressions

1. 以至于无可奈何 (yǐzhìyú wú kě nài hé) - "So... that there is nothing to be done."
   • Example: 事情的发展以至于无可奈何。
   • Translation: The development of the situation is so that there is nothing to be done.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• One common mistake is misplacing "以至于" in a sentence. It should always connect the two ideas clearly.
• Learners may confuse "以至于" with "因此" or "所以" without understanding the slight differences in emphasis.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that "以至于" is like the "extent amplifier." If someone says, "It's so hot that..." think of "以至于" amplifying the reason behind it.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• "以至于" is used to describe a result that is a consequence of a preceding situation, emphasizing the degree of that result.
• It differs from "因此" and "所以," which do not imply the same level of extremity.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Translate: "他的努力工作以至于他升了职。"
   • Answer: "His hard work is so that he got promoted."
2. What is the structure of "以至于"?
   • Answer: Situation + 以至于 + Result
3. What is a common mistake when using "以至于"?
   • Answer: Misplacing it within the sentence.