Processing keyword: 还 (hái) - Still/Yet

Mandarin Grammar Point: 还 (hái) - Still/Yet

HSK Grammar Point: 还 (hái) - Still/Yet

1. Introduction

In Mandarin, the word "还 (hái)" is used to indicate that something is still happening or remains in a particular state. It can also mean "yet" when referring to something that is expected but hasn't occurred up to the point of reference.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

"还 (hái)" can be used in different contexts:

1. To indicate continuity of action or state:
   • It expresses that an action is ongoing or a situation remains unchanged.
2. To imply something hasn't happened yet:
   • It is used when discussing expectations or future actions that are pending.

Structure

The basic structure of sentences using "还 (hái)" can be understood as follows:

• Subject + 还 + Verb/Adjective
• Subject + 还 + 有 + Noun (for existence)

Formation Diagram

┌─────────────┐
│    Subject  │
└─────────────┘
         │
  ┌──────┴───────┐
  │      还      │
  └──────────────┘
         │
┌────────┴────────┐
│     Verb/Adj    │
└─────────────────┘

Example Sentence Structures

• 我还在学习中文。

  • (Wǒ hái zài xuéxí zhōngwén.)
  • "I am still studying Chinese."

• 他还没来。

  • (Tā hái méi lái.)
  • "He hasn't come yet."

3. Comparative Analysis

"还 (hái)" is commonly compared with "再 (zài)", which also means "again" or "more." However, "再 (zài)" implies a repetition of an action, while "还 (hái)" focuses on the continuity or the ongoing state of an action or existence. Comparison Example:

• 还 (hái): 我还在工作。(Wǒ hái zài gōngzuò.) - "I am still working."
• 再 (zài): 我再工作一个小时。(Wǒ zài gōngzuò yī gè xiǎoshí.) - "I will work for another hour."

4. Examples in Context

Formal Sentences

• 我们的会议还在进行。
  • (Wǒmen de huìyì hái zài jìnxíng.)
  • "Our meeting is still in progress."

Informal Sentences

• 你还吃饭吗？
  • (Nǐ hái chīfàn ma?)
  • "Are you still eating?"

Written Context

• 虽然下雨，但他们还在踢足球。
  • (Suīrán xiàyǔ, dàn tāmen hái zài tī zúqiú.)
  • "Although it's raining, they are still playing football."

Spoken Context

• 我还没看那部电影呢！
  • (Wǒ hái méi kàn nà bù diànyǐng ne!)
  • "I haven't watched that movie yet!"

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Chinese culture, the use of "还 (hái)" can reflect a person's patience or the acceptance of a situation that has not yet changed. This indirectly embodies the cultural value of endurance and the ability to deal with ongoing circumstances.

Levels of Politeness

Using "还" incorporates a sense of expectation and assumption of ongoing action which can be polite in conversation, showcasing patience or an understanding of the other person's situation.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 还没呢 (hái méi ne): This phrase is used to express that something is still pending or hasn't happened yet, often used in informal dialogues.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Confusing "还" with "再": Learners may incorrectly use "再" where "还" is appropriate. Remember that "还" conveys continuity or existence, while "再" tends to indicate a repetition.

Learning Strategies

To remember the meaning of "还 (hái)", think of the phrase "still waiting" — it conveys continuity, which aligns with the use of "还".

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• "还 (hái)" denotes 'still' or 'yet'.
• Used to express ongoing actions or states and to indicate something that has not happened as expected.
• Structure: Subject + 还 + Verb/Adjective
• Differentiates from "再 (zài)", which signifies repetition.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How would you say "I am still here" in Mandarin?
2. What does "还没" indicate?
3. Differentiate between "还" and "再" with an example. Answer these to reinforce your understanding of "还 (hái)"!