Processing keyword: 既…又… (jì… yòu…) - Both... and...

Mandarin Grammar Point: 既…又… (jì… yòu…) - Both... and...

Grammar Point: 既…又… (jì… yòu…) - Both... and...

1. Introduction

The structure "既...又..." is used in Mandarin Chinese to express that something possesses two qualities or conditions simultaneously. It's akin to saying "both... and..." in English. This construction helps emphasize the presence of multiple attributes.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: "既" (jì) means "both" or "already," and "又" (yòu) means "and" or "again." Together, they express two simultaneous characteristics or actions.
• Structure:
  • The structure is typically as follows:
    Subject + 既 + Attribute 1 + 又 + Attribute 2.

Formation Diagram

+-----------------------------+
| Subject                     |
+-------------+---------------+
| 既          |    又         |
+-------------+---------------+
| Attribute 1 |   Attribute 2  |
+-------------+---------------+

3. Comparative Analysis

The "既...又..." structure is similar to using "又...又..." (yòu... yòu...) which also means "both... and...", but it lacks the emphasis that "既...又..." provides.

• "既...又...": Highlights existence of two features together.
• "又...又...": Simply states two features without that emphasis.

Examples:

• 既聪明又努力: Both smart and hardworking.
• 又聪明又努力: Also smart and hardworking (less emphasis).

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

• Formal:
  • 他既有才华，又有责任心。
    • (Tā jì yǒu cáihuá, yòu yǒu zérèn xīn.)
    • He is both talented and responsible.
• Informal:
  • 这个地方既好玩又便宜。
    • (Zhège dìfāng jì hǎowán, yòu piányí.)
    • This place is both fun and cheap.
• Written:
  • 这部电影既感人又有趣。
    • (Zhè bù diànyǐng jì gǎnrén, yòu yǒuqù.)
    • This movie is both touching and interesting.
• Spoken:
  • 她既喜欢运动，又爱看书。
    • (Tā jì xǐhuān yùndòng, yòu ài kàn shū.)
    • She both likes sports and loves reading.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Chinese culture, expressing multiple positive traits is often used to convey respect and admiration. Using "既...又..." highlights the multifaceted nature of a person, which is greatly appreciated in various social contexts.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 既要马儿跑，又要马儿不吃草。
  • (Jì yào mǎ ér pǎo, yòu yào mǎ ér bù chī cǎo.)
  • You want the horse to run, but also not eat grass. (A metaphor about wanting to achieve results without cost.)

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Common Mistake: Mixing up "既...又..." with "不仅...而且..."
  • "不仅...而且..." (bù jǐn... érqiě...) means "not only... but also..." and is used when emphasizing a progressive idea rather than simply acknowledging dual characteristics.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that "既" (jì) sounds like "key" in English, which can remind you that it is a key structural point to indicate dual characteristics.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• "既...又..." is used to express two concurrent characteristics.
• Structure: Subject + 既 + Attribute 1 + 又 + Attribute 2.
• It emphasizes the dual qualities of the subject.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does "既...又..." mean in English?
2. What is the structure of the "既...又..." expression?
3. Can "既...又..." and "不仅...而且..." be used interchangeably?

This detailed overview provides a clear understanding of the grammar point "既...又..." and its application in Mandarin Chinese.