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Phrases › Fixed phrases › Discourse markers
In the HSK 7-9 syllabus, 可不（是嘛） is categorized as a fixed phrase functioning as a discourse marker. Despite containing the negation character 不, it expresses strong, empathetic agreement with an interlocutor's assessment—equivalent to 'tell…
View detailsPhrases › Fixed phrases › Discourse markers
The fixed phrase 老实说 (lǎoshi shuō) functions as a stance-marking discourse marker meaning 'to be honest' or 'frankly speaking.' It signals that the speaker is setting aside polite convention to offer a candid opinion, personal admission, or…
View detailsPhrases › Fixed phrases › Discourse markers
The fixed expression （你）还别说 is an informal spoken discourse marker listed in the HSK 7-9 syllabus. Despite containing the negative imperative 别说, it does not command the listener to be quiet; instead, it signals that the speaker is concedin…
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In spoken Mandarin, 你看你 functions as an interpersonal discourse marker rather than a literal command to look at oneself. Used primarily between familiar speakers, it signals mild reproach, affectionate exasperation, or polite fuss over the …
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In conversation, 说到哪儿去了 can challenge a remark that the speaker regards as off track, mistaken or excessive. It may warmly deflect thanks or praise, or object to a misunderstanding. Its force depends on context and tone; it is not always a …
View detailsPhrases › Fixed phrases › Discourse markers
In the HSK 7-9 syllabus, 说真的 is classified as a fixed phrase functioning as a discourse marker. Speakers use it in conversational and semi-formal spoken Mandarin to signal a shift toward sincerity, drop a joking tone, or preface a candid pe…
View detailsPhrases › Fixed phrases › Discourse markers
At the advanced HSK 7-9 level, 退一步说 (tuì yī bù shuō) is a fixed phrase used as a discourse marker meaning 'taking a step back to say' or 'even if we concede a point.' Speakers use it not to abandon their main argument, but to introduce a hy…
View detailsPhrases › Fixed phrases › Discourse markers
At the advanced HSK 7-9 level, 无论如何 (wúlùnrúhé) is classified as a fixed phrase functioning as a discourse marker meaning 'no matter what,' 'under any circumstances,' or 'in any case.' It signals either unwavering determination despite obst…
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In the HSK 7-9 syllabus, 要（让）我说 is classified as a fixed phrase functioning as a discourse marker. Equivalent to 'if you ask me' or 'if I were to say,' it introduces a speaker's candid assessment, practical recommendation, or frank judgment…
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这不 is a conversational discourse marker used to draw attention to a situation relevant to the discussion, often as supporting evidence or an explanation. The situation may be visible, recently reported, recalled in a story or a known upcomi…
View detailsPhrases › Fixed phrases › Discourse markers
In advanced Chinese, 这样一来 (zhèyàng yī lái) is a fixed discourse marker meaning 'as a result of this' or 'once this happens'. Listed under fixed phrases in the HSK 7-9 outline, it bridges a specific change, action, or proposal to the new sit…
View detailsPhrases › Fixed phrases › Discourse markers
The fixed expression 真是的 functions as a spoken discourse marker expressing mild exasperation, reproach, or affectionate complaint. Advanced learners use it to react to unreasonable, careless, or overly polite behavior in informal conversati…
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