Processing keyword: 当然 (dāngrán) - Of course, certainly

Mandarin Grammar Point: 当然 (dāngrán) - Of course, certainly

当然 (dāngrán) - Of Course, Certainly

1. Introduction

In Mandarin Chinese, 当然 (dāngrán) is commonly used to express certainty or agreement, similar to saying "of course" or "certainly" in English. It is often used to affirm something or to indicate that something is obvious or expected.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: 当然 indicates that the speaker agrees with something or that something is evident and requires no further explanation.
• Structure: It is often placed at the beginning of a sentence to emphasize an obvious statement or a logical conclusion.

Formation Diagram

[当然] + [Subject] + [Verb] + [Object]

Example Structure:

• 当然 + 他 + 会 + 来 (Of course, he will come)
• 当然 + 这 + 是 + 对的 (Of course, this is correct)

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• 那当然 (nà dāngrán): This is an emphatic version, translating to "that is for sure."
• 当然可以 (dāngrán kěyǐ): Meaning "certainly can," used to give permission or agree to a request.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:

   • 当然，我们会按时完成这个项目。
   • (Of course, we will complete this project on time.)

2. Informal:

   • 你喜欢这个电影吗？当然啊！
   • (Do you like this movie? Of course!)

3. Written:

   • 当然，您的意见对我们很重要。
   • (Of course, your opinion is important to us.)

4. Spoken:

   • 这道菜很好吃，当然值得一试。
   • (This dish is delicious, it’s definitely worth a try.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Chinese culture, expressing certainty or agreement using 当然 can reflect a level of politeness and humility, as it implies that the speaker acknowledges and values the opinions or thoughts of others.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 当然要 (dāngrán yào): "Of course [one] must," used to express necessity.
  • 当然要好好学习。 (Of course, one must study hard.)

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Incorrect: 我当然不喜欢它。 (Using it in a negative way without context)
• Correct: 当然，他也是喜欢它。 (Use in positive or confirming contexts)

Learning Strategies

• Try to associate 当然 with situations where you naturally agree or confirm something to embed the meaning contextually. For example, imagine scenarios in which you would respond positively to a friend's statement.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 当然 (dāngrán) conveys agreement or certainty.
• It structures sentences to emphasize that the fact is evident.
• Use in both formal and informal contexts to add depth to your responses.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does 当然 mean in English?
2. Provide a sentence using 当然 in both formal and informal contexts.
3. How does 当然 compare to 那当然? Feel free to use these explanations to further understand and utilize 当然 in your Mandarin conversations!