Processing keyword: 再三 (zàisān) - Repeatedly, over and over again

Mandarin Grammar Point: 再三 (zàisān) - Repeatedly, over and over again

再三 (zàisān) - Repeatedly, Over and Over Again

1. Introduction

The phrase "再三" (zàisān) is used in Mandarin to express the idea of doing something repeatedly or multiple times. It can convey persistence, emphasis, or urgency.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: "再三" translates to "repeatedly" or "over and over again" in English.
• Structure: It is an adverbial phrase that can modify verbs to indicate the frequency of an action.

Formation Diagram:

[再三] + [Verb]

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

• Similar Expressions:
  • "反复" (fǎnfù) - means repeatedly or over and over, but can imply a more systematic repetition.
  • "屡次" (lǚcì) - means repeatedly, but often used in a more formal context and implies several instances. Differences:
• "再三" emphasizes the repetition and urgency in the action, often expressing annoyance or insistence.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:
   • 他再三强调这个问题的重要性。
   • (Tā zàisān qiángdiào zhège wèntí de zhòngyàoxìng.)
   • He repeatedly emphasized the importance of this issue.
2. Informal:
   • 我再三告诉你，不要迟到！
   • (Wǒ zàisān gàosù nǐ, bùyào chídào!)
   • I've told you over and over again, don’t be late!
3. Written:
   • 这封信再三提醒我们要注意安全。
   • (Zhè fēng xìn zàisān tíxǐng wǒmen yào zhùyì ānquán.)
   • This letter repeatedly reminds us to pay attention to safety.
4. Spoken:
   • 老师再三讲过这个概念。
   • (Lǎoshī zàisān jiǎng guò zhège gàiniàn.)
   • The teacher has gone over this concept repeatedly.

5. Cultural Notes

Many Chinese individuals value thoroughness and caution, which reflects in how they might use "再三" to express the importance of careful consideration in various situations (like work, family discussions, etc.). Using "再三" can indicate that the speaker feels strongly about the message being conveyed.

Idiomatic Expressions

• “再三叮嘱” (zàisān dīngzhǔ) - repeatedly remind or caution someone.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Frequent Mistake: Using "再三" with nouns instead of verbs.
  • Incorrect: 我再三这个问题。
  • Correct: 我再三提这个问题。

Learning Strategies

• Remember the nuances of persistence in "再三" by associating it with "three times" (三 - sān). Picture a person insisting on something until it's understood.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• "再三" means to do something repeatedly.
• It is usually used with verbs to emphasize insistence or urgency.
• Distinct from other similar phrases is its connotation of annoyance or insistence.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does "再三" mean?
2. Can "再三" be used with nouns?
3. Give an example sentence using "再三". Feel free to practice using "再三" in various sentences to enhance your understanding!