Processing keyword: 毕竟 (bìjìng) - After all / When all is said and done

Mandarin Grammar Point: 毕竟 (bìjìng) - After all / When all is said and done

毕竟 (bìjìng) - After all / When all is said and done

1. Introduction

In Mandarin, the term 毕竟 (bìjìng) is used to express the idea that despite certain circumstances or arguments, a fundamental truth or reality remains. It often translates to "after all" or "when all is said and done" in English.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

毕竟 (bìjìng) can be used to:

• Emphasize a conclusion drawn from previous information.
• Convey a sense of inevitability or a general truth despite specific details. Structure:
• Sentence structure with 毕竟:
  • Subject + 毕竟 + Comment/Conclusion

Formation Diagram

[Subject] + 毕竟 + [Comment/Conclusion]

Meaning:

• 毕竟 implies that after considering all factors or circumstances, there is a shared understanding or acceptance of a conclusion.

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• 毕竟 (bìjìng) vs. 毕竟还是 (bìjìng háishì):
  • 毕竟: Simply emphasizes a statement.
  • 毕竟还是: Adds a contrasting nuance, suggesting "but still" or "after all, it is still true that…"

Examples

1. 毕竟: 这件事情毕竟是我做的。

   • "After all, this matter was handled by me."

2. 毕竟还是: 这件事情毕竟还是很复杂。

   • "After all, this matter is still very complex."

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples:

1. Formal Context:
   • 这位科学家的研究毕竟是颠覆性的。
     • "This scientist's research is, after all, groundbreaking."
2. Informal Context:
   • 他毕竟还是我最好的朋友。
     • "He is, after all, my best friend."
3. Written Context:
   • 毕竟，我们应该尊重每个人的选择。
     • "After all, we should respect everyone's choices."
4. Spoken Context:
   • 毕竟你也知道，天气无法预测。
     • "After all, you know that the weather is unpredictable."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Chinese society, there's a strong emphasis on understanding context and nuances in conversations. Using 毕竟 signals a reflective and considerate attitude, indicating that the speaker is aware of various aspects of a situation.

Levels of Politeness

Using 毕竟 can also serve to soften statements and show humility, making it a polite way to affirm a conclusion in discussions.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 毕竟是经历了很多事情的人。
  • "After all, (he/she) is someone who has gone through many experiences."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Common mistakes include confusing 毕竟 with 否则 (fǒuzé) which means "otherwise." Remember that 毕竟 is NOT for hypothetical or condition-based situations, but rather for affirmations.

Learning Strategies

• Remember the link between 毕竟 and the concept of conclusion: think of it as "ultimately" leading to a decisive statement.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 毕竟 denotes a conclusion after assessing circumstances.
• Useful in both formal and informal contexts.
• Connects well with discussions that require understanding context and nuance.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does 毕竟 mean in English?
2. How do you structure a sentence using 毕竟?
3. Give an example where you wouldn't use 毕竟.

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By understanding and practicing the usage of 毕竟 (bìjìng), you can more effectively express conclusions and affirmations in Mandarin conversations. Happy learning!