Processing keyword: 除了...都 (chúle...dōu) - Except for..., all...

Mandarin Grammar Point: 除了...都 (chúle...dōu) - Except for..., all...

除了...都 (chúle...dōu) - Except for..., all....

1. Introduction

The Chinese structure 除了...都 (chúle...dōu) is used to express exceptions in a statement. This structure emphasizes that everything or everyone except the specified subject applies to the following statement.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• 除了 (chúle) means "except for" or "besides".
• 都 (dōu) translates to "all" or "both".
• This structure highlights that everything or everyone is included in a statement except for the mentioned exception.

Structure

The basic structure of this grammar point is:

除了 + [exception] + 都 + [statement]

Formation Diagram

[不包括的部分] - 除了 + [包括的部分]
               ┘
          [都...] 提供的信息

3. Comparative Analysis

• 与...不同 (yǔ...bùtóng) - "Different from...": It marks differences without focusing on exceptions.
• 除了...以外 (chúle...yǐwài): This has a similar meaning, meaning "besides...". However, 除了...都 emphasizes that all except for the exception apply.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context
   • 除了老师，所有的学生都参加了会议。
   • Chúle lǎoshī, suǒyǒu de xuéshēng dōu cānjiāle huìyì.
   • "Except for the teacher, all students attended the meeting."
2. Informal Context
   • 除了他的朋友，大家都喜欢这个电影。
   • Chúle tā de péngyǒu, dàjiā dōu xǐhuān zhège diànyǐng.
   • "Except for his friend, everyone likes this movie."
3. Written Context
   • 除了这个问题，所有的答案都很清楚。
   • Chúle zhège wèntí, suǒyǒu de dá'àn dōu hěn qīngchǔ.
   • "Except for this question, all the answers are very clear."
4. Spoken Context
   • 除了周末，我每天都去健身。
   • Chúle zhōumò, wǒ měitiān dōu qù jiànshēn.
   • "Except for the weekend, I go to the gym every day."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• The structure reflects a common way of expressing exceptions in Mandarin, making it vital in both formal and informal conversations.
• In social interactions, being polite and structured in communication is valued; thus, using this structure can enhance formal discourse.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 常言道，除了父母，朋友是最重要的。
• Cháng yán dào, chúle fùmǔ, péngyǒu shì zuì zhòngyào de.
• "As the saying goes, except for parents, friends are the most important."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Learners often omit either 除了 or 都, which can lead to misunderstanding.
• Failing to align the noun with both 除了 and 都 (e.g., singular/plural mismatch) is a common mistake.

Learning Strategies

• Remember the phrase: "Except for X, everything counts!" This helps in remembering the structure.
• Practice this structure in various contexts to gain confidence.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 除了...都 is used to indicate exceptions in a general statement.
• "除了" introduces the exception while "都" emphasizes the inclusion of all other elements.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you say "except for my mom, everyone else has come" in Chinese using 除了...都?
2. Provide an example of 除了...都 in a formal context.
3. What are two similar grammar points to 除了...都? Feel free to practice and reinforce your understanding of this important structure in Mandarin!