Processing keyword: 每 (měi) - Every; each

Mandarin Grammar Point: 每 (měi) - Every; each

每 (měi) - Every; each

1. Introduction

The Mandarin word 每 (měi) means "every" or "each" and is used to describe things in a general sense, referring to every individual item in a group. It helps to convey a sense of repetition or uniformity among items in a collection.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

每 (měi) is typically followed by a noun and is used to indicate that something applies to all members within that category. It emphasizes that every single instance of the noun is included.

Structure

• Structure: 每 + Noun + Verb/Object
• Example: 每个人都很聪明。 (Měi gè rén dōu hěn cōngmíng.) – Every person is very smart.

Formation Diagram

每 (měi) --> Every
   |          
   +--> Noun 
   |
   +--> Verb/Object

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with 其他 (qítā) - Other

• 每 (měi) emphasizes uniformity across all instances (every one).
• 其他 (qítā) refers specifically to other instances that are not the ones being considered. Example:
• 每个人都来了。 (Every person came.)
• 其他人没有来。 (The other people did not come.)

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:
   • 每位员工都应遵守公司规则。
     • (Měi wèi yuángōng dōu yīng zūnshǒu gōngsī guīzé.)
     • Every employee should follow company rules.
2. Informal:
   • 每个周末我都会去看电影。
     • (Měi gè zhōumò wǒ dōu huì qù kàn diànyǐng.)
     • Every weekend, I go to watch movies.
3. Written:
   • 每一本书都有它的故事。
     • (Měi yī běn shū dōu yǒu tā de gùshì.)
     • Every book has its story.
4. Spoken:
   • 每个人的兴趣都不同。
     • (Měi gè rén de xìngqù dōu bùtóng.)
     • Everyone has different interests.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Chinese culture, the concept of “every” can signify inclusivity and respect. The word 每 is often used in polite contexts, reflecting the collectivist nature of Chinese society, where the group is valued over the individual.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 每次 (měi cì) – every time
• 每天 (měi tiān) – every day

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Learners might confuse 每 (měi) with 所有 (suǒyǒu), which means "all" or "everything." Remember that 每 specifies individual items whereas 所有 refers to the totality.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of "每" as "mate," signifying "every mate" or "every friend," to help recall its meaning of every individual.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 每 (měi) means "every" or "each."
• It is used in conjunction with nouns to indicate inclusivity.
• Remember the difference between 每 and 所有.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does 每 (měi) mean in English?
   • A) All
   • B) Every
   • C) Some
2. Provide an example sentence using 每 (měi).
3. How does 每 (měi) compare to 其他 (qítā)? Answers:
4. B
5. (Any correct example sentence)
6. (Describes the differences noted above)