A1 Time Expressions 16 min read Easy

Doing things again with Zài (再)

Use {再|zài} before a verb to express 'again' for future actions or 'then' in a sequence.

Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Use {再|zài} before a verb to indicate that an action will happen again in the future.

  • Place {再|zài} directly before the verb: {我|wǒ}{再|zài}{说|shuō}{一|yī}{次|cì} (I will say it again).
  • It expresses a future or intended repetition, not a past one.
  • It is often paired with time words like {明天|míngtiān} (tomorrow) or {以后|yǐhòu} (later).
Subject + 再 + Verb + Object

Overview

再 (zài) is a pivotal adverb in Chinese, fundamentally meaning "again," "once more," or "in addition." Unlike its English counterpart, 再 (zài) specifically refers to actions or events that are anticipated to occur in the future. It signals a future repetition, a further instance, or an additional quantity of something. Understanding 再 (zài) is essential from the outset of Chinese learning, as it governs how future actions are expressed in sequence or as repetitions.

Its most universally recognized appearance is in 再见 (zàijiàn), which literally translates to "see again," serving as the standard farewell. This phrase itself encapsulates the forward-looking nature of 再 (zài).

At its core, 再 (zài) directs your attention to an action yet to be performed for a second, third, or subsequent time. It expresses intent or expectation, making it crucial for planning, making requests, and describing sequential events. This word helps you articulate desires like "one more coffee" or structures like "first I'll do X, then I'll do Y." Its correct usage highlights a critical difference in temporal expression between Chinese and many Indo-European languages.

How This Grammar Works

再 (zài) functions as an adverb of time or manner within a Chinese sentence. A foundational rule in Chinese grammar dictates that adverbs typically precede the verb or the verb phrase they modify. This means that the standard placement for 再 (zài) is before the verb it describes, not after it or at the end of the sentence.
This pre-verb positioning is non-negotiable for grammatical correctness and natural speech.
The linguistic principle behind this placement is the topic-comment structure prevalent in Chinese, where modifying elements (like adverbs) often set the stage for the action (the verb). 再 (zài) informs the listener how or when the verb's action will occur—namely, as a repetition or an additional instance. It signifies a continuation or an additive quality to an action or state, not just a simple re-performance.
For example, 我再吃一个苹果 (Wǒ zài chī yí gè píngguǒ) means "I'll eat another apple," implying a future action that adds to previous consumption. This is distinct from simply repeating the act of eating the same apple.
This adverbial function of 再 (zài) also means it can combine with other adverbs or be part of more complex adverbial phrases, always maintaining its position before the core verb. Its immutability across different subjects or tenses simplifies its use for beginners; you don't need to worry about conjugation. The consistency of its placement provides a clear, applicable rule that, once mastered, unlocks precise expression of future repetition and sequencing.

Formation Pattern

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Mastering 再 (zài) involves understanding its various structural applications. Each pattern provides a specific nuance to how future repetitions or sequences are expressed.
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1. Basic Future Repetition:
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This is the most straightforward use, indicating that an action will be performed again or once more in the future. It expresses either a deliberate intention or a planned recurrence.
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| Structure | Example (Chinese) | Pinyin | English Translation | Explanation |
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| :-------- | :---------------- | :----- | :------------------ | :---------- |
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| Subject + 再 (zài) + Verb (+ Object) | 我再看一遍。 | Wǒ zài kàn yí biàn. | I'll watch it again (one time). | Expresses the intention to watch something for a second time. |
7
| Subject + 再 (zài) + Verb (+ Object) | 他明天再来。 | Tā míngtiān zài lái. | He will come again tomorrow. | Indicates a planned return in the future. |
8
| Subject + 再 (zài) + Verb (+ Object) | 请你再说一次。 | Qǐng nǐ zài shuō yí cì. | Please say it one more time. | A polite request for future repetition of speech. |
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2. Sequential Actions: 先 (xiān)...再 (zài)... (First... Then...)
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This structure is indispensable for describing a sequence of actions where one must logically or temporally precede the other. 再 (zài) in this context translates more accurately as "then" or "afterwards," establishing a clear temporal dependency.
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| Structure | Example (Chinese) | Pinyin | English Translation | Explanation |
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| :-------- | :---------------- | :----- | :------------------ | :---------- |
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| Subject + 先 (xiān) + Action 1 + 再 (zài) + Action 2 | 我先吃饭,再学习。 | Wǒ xiān chīfàn, zài xuéxí. | I'll eat first, then study. | Action 2 (studying) will only happen after Action 1 (eating) is complete. |
14
| Subject + 先 (xiān) + Action 1 + 再 (zài) + Action 2 | 你先坐下,我们再谈。 | Nǐ xiān zuòxià, wǒmen zài tán. | You sit down first, then we'll talk. | The conversation (Action 2) is contingent on sitting down (Action 1). |
15
| Subject + 先 (xiān) + Action 1 + 再 (zài) + Action 2 | 我先去商店,再回家。 | Wǒ xiān qù shāngdiàn, zài huí jiā. | I'll go to the store first, then go home. | Outlines a two-step plan; returning home follows the trip to the store. |
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3. Requesting More / Another:
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This pattern is used to ask for an additional item of the same type. It implies a desire for a further quantity or instance, and critically, requires a measure word.
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| Structure | Example (Chinese) | Pinyin | English Translation | Explanation |
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| :-------- | :---------------- | :----- | :------------------ | :---------- |
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| 再 (zài) + Number + Measure Word + Noun | 再一杯咖啡。 | Zài yì bēi kāfēi. | One more cup of coffee. | Requesting an additional cup of coffee. 一 (yī) is often omitted but implied. |
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| 再 (zài) + Number + Measure Word + Noun | 我再要一份米饭。 | Wǒ zài yào yí fèn mǐfàn. | I want one more portion of rice. | Expressing the desire for an additional serving. |
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| 再 (zài) + Number + Measure Word + Noun | 请再给我两本书。 | Qǐng zài gěi wǒ liǎng běn shū. | Please give me two more books. | A request for two additional books. |
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4. Negative Form: 不 (bù) 再 (zài) (No Longer / Not Again):
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This construction signifies the cessation of a previous action or a firm refusal to repeat something. It conveys a resolute stop to a recurring action.
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| Structure | Example (Chinese) | Pinyin | English Translation | Explanation |
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| :-------- | :---------------- | :----- | :------------------ | :---------- |
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| 不 (bù) + 再 (zài) + Verb (+ Object) | 我不再等他了。 | Wǒ bù zài děng tā le. | I won't wait for him anymore. | Expresses a decision to stop waiting, a future non-action. |
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| 不 (bù) + 再 (zài) + Verb (+ Object) | 他不再抽烟了。 | Tā bù zài chōuyān le. | He no longer smokes. | Indicates a permanent cessation of smoking. |
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| 再也不 (zài yě bù) + Verb (+ Object) | 我再也不来了。 | Wǒ zài yě bù lái le. | I will never come again. | Stronger, more emphatic refusal, meaning "never again." |

When To Use It

Using 再 (zài) correctly hinges on its inherent forward-looking nature. You should employ 再 (zài) in any context where you are discussing a repetition, an additional instance, or a sequential action that has not yet occurred.
  • Future Repetition or Continuation: This is the primary function of 再 (zài). Whenever you intend to repeat an action, or an action is expected to be repeated, and this event is set in the future, 再 (zài) is the appropriate choice. This could be a planned event, a hopeful re-occurrence, or a simple statement about what comes next.
  • Example: 我明天再联系你。 (Wǒ míngtiān zài liánxì nǐ.) – "I'll contact you again tomorrow." Here, 再 (zài) clearly indicates the contact is a future event, possibly a follow-up to a previous conversation or an initial contact postponed.
  • Sequencing of Events: As demonstrated by the 先 (xiān)...再 (zài)... structure, 再 (zài) is crucial for outlining steps, instructions, or conditions. It conveys that one action logically or temporally follows another, often with the implication that the second action depends on the first's completion.
  • Example: 我们先吃饭,再去看电影。 (Wǒmen xiān chīfàn, zài qù kàn diànyǐng.) – "We'll eat first, then go watch a movie." This sentence maps out a clear chronological order for two distinct activities.
  • Requesting "One More" or "Another": When you desire an additional quantity or another item of the same kind, 再 (zài) is used. It always precedes a number and a measure word, making the request specific.
  • Example: 服务员,再来一个包子。 (Fúwùyuán, zài lái yí gè bāozi.) – "Waiter, one more steamed bun, please." This is a common phrase in restaurants or cafes.
  • Polite Requests for Repetition or Clarification: If you need someone to restate something they've just said because you didn't hear or understand, 再 (zài) is used in a polite request, asking for a future re-statement.
  • Example: 请再说一遍。 (Qǐng zài shuō yí biàn.) – "Please say it again." The 一遍 (yí biàn) (one time) reinforces the request for repetition.
  • Expressions of Farewell: The ubiquitous phrase 再见 (zàijiàn) – "goodbye" (literally, "see again") is perhaps the most familiar example of 再 (zài)'s forward-looking nature. It expresses the hope or intention to meet again in the future, embedding a positive future outlook into the parting.
  • Postponing Actions or Setting Conditions: 再 (zài) can also be used to indicate that an action will happen later, often after a certain condition is met or a prior action is completed.
  • Example: 你先休息一下,我们再开始。 (Nǐ xiān xiūxi yíxià, wǒmen zài kāishǐ.) – "You rest a bit first, then we'll start." The starting of the activity is postponed until after a period of rest.

Common Mistakes

Beginners frequently encounter specific challenges when using 再 (zài), primarily due to direct translation from English or a lack of understanding of Chinese temporal adverbs. Addressing these common pitfalls is crucial for accurate and natural-sounding Chinese.
  • Incorrect Placement of 再 (zài): The most prevalent error among English speakers is placing 再 (zài) at the end of a sentence, mimicking the English adverb "again." In Chinese, adverbs like 再 (zài) must precede the verb they modify.
  • Incorrect: 我吃饭再。 (Wǒ chīfàn zài.)
  • Correct: 我再吃饭。 (Wǒ zài chīfàn.) – "I'll eat again."
  • Why: This error stems from direct translation and a fundamental difference in word order. English often places adverbs at the end of clauses, whereas Chinese places adverbs of manner and time before the verb. 再 (zài) acts as a modifier to the action, specifying its future repetition, thus it belongs with the verb.
  • Confusion with 又 (yòu): This is arguably the most significant source of confusion. Both 再 (zài) and 又 (yòu) can mean "again," but their temporal scopes are distinct.
  • 再 (zài): Exclusively for future actions, unfulfilled repetitions, or additional instances. It generally carries a neutral or positive connotation, indicating intention or planning.
  • 又 (yòu): Used for actions that have already occurred in the past, indicating a completed repetition. 又 (yòu) can sometimes carry a nuance of annoyance, regret, or simply state a factual recurrence.
  • Incorrect: 我昨天再看了一部电影。 (Wǒ zuótiān zài kàn le yí bù diànyǐng.) – This is incorrect because 昨天 (zuótiān) (yesterday) refers to the past, while 再 (zài) refers to the future.
  • Correct: 我昨天又看了一部电影。 (Wǒ zuótiān yòu kàn le yí bù diànyǐng.) – "Yesterday I watched another movie again." (Stating a past repetition).
  • Why: The core difference lies in their temporal orientation. 再 (zài) projects forward in time, indicating something yet to happen. 又 (yòu) reflects backward, describing something that has already happened more than once. Using 再 (zài) for past events creates a temporal paradox in Chinese grammar, making the sentence nonsensical to a native speaker.
  • Omitting Measure Words when Requesting More: When asking for "one more" or "another" of a countable noun, neglecting the measure word is a common mistake.
  • Incorrect: 再一个咖啡。 (Zài yí gè kāfēi.) – While understandable, it's grammatically imprecise.
  • Correct: 再一杯咖啡。 (Zài yì bēi kāfēi.) – "One more cup of coffee."
  • Why: Chinese grammar mandates the use of a measure word (like 杯 (bēi) for cups, 个 (gè) for general items, 份 (fèn) for portions) between the number (even if implied, like 一 (yī)) and the noun for most countable objects. 再 (zài) combined with 一 (yī) (or another number) functions to request an additional unit, and that unit requires its appropriate classifier.
  • Overgeneralization of 再 (zài) as "then": While 再 (zài) can indeed mean "then" in the 先 (xiān)...再 (zài)... construction, it does not broadly function as a standalone conjunction for any sequence. Its "then" meaning is specifically tied to sequential actions by the same agent, often implying a direct or conditional follow-up to the preceding action. Do not substitute 再 (zài) for general sequential adverbs like 然后 (ránhòu) (then, afterwards) or 接着 (jiēzhe) (next, immediately after), which have broader applications for connecting disparate events or different subjects' actions. The 再 (zài) in 先 (xiān)...再 (zài)... maintains its nuance of a subsequent instance or additional step within a planned or logical progression.

Real Conversations

Observing 再 (zài) in authentic contexts helps solidify your understanding of its practical application in daily Chinese communication.

1. Ordering Food/Drinks (Restaurant/Cafe):

- Waiter: 请问您还需要什么? (Qǐngwèn nín hái xūyào shénme?) – "Excuse me, what else do you need?"

- Customer: 嗯,再来一杯冰水。谢谢。 (En, zài lái yì bēi bīngshuǐ. Xièxie.) – "Hmm, one more glass of ice water. Thanks." (Using 再 (zài) to request an additional item.)

- Customer: 这份炒饭很好吃,我下次再点。 (Zhè fèn chǎofàn hěn hǎochī, wǒ xià cì zài diǎn.) – "This fried rice is delicious, I'll order it again next time." (Expressing future intent to repeat an action.)

2. Making Plans / Appointments (Friends/Colleagues):

- Friend A: 今天太晚了,我们明天再讨论吧。 (Jīntiān tài wǎn le, wǒmen míngtiān zài tǎolùn ba.) – "It's too late today, let's discuss it again tomorrow." (Postponing the discussion to a future time.)

- Friend B: 好的,那我们再联系。 (Hǎo de, nà wǒmen zài liánxì.) – "Okay, then we'll be in touch again." (A common way to say "talk to you later," implying future contact.)

- Colleague: 这份报告你先看看,有问题我们再开会。 (Zhè fèn bàogào nǐ xiān kànkan, yǒu wèntí wǒmen zài kāihuì.) – "You look at this report first; if there are issues, we'll have a meeting then." (Using 先 (xiān)...再 (zài)... for conditional sequencing.)

3. Expressing Refusal or Resolution (Family/Social Media):

- Parent: 你再玩一会儿游戏吧? (Nǐ zài wán yí huìr yóuxì ba?) – "Do you want to play games for a little while longer?" (Asking for an additional period of time for an action.)

- Child: 不,我不再玩了,我要去睡觉。 (Bù, wǒ bù zài wán le, wǒ yào qù shuìjiào.) – "No, I'm not playing anymore; I'm going to sleep." (Using 不 (bù) 再 (zài) to state the cessation of an action.)

- Person A: 你还会去那家店吗? (Nǐ hái huì qù nà jiā diàn ma?) – "Will you still go to that store?"

- Person B: 不了,我再也不去那儿了,服务太差了。 (Bù liǎo, wǒ zài yě bù qù nà'er le, fúwù tài chà le.) – "No way, I'll never go there again; the service was terrible." (Emphatic negation using 再也不 (zài yě bù)).

4. Social Interactions / Politeness (Everyday):

- Speaker A (unclear audio): 你说什么?我没听清楚。 (Nǐ shuō shénme? Wǒ méi tīng qīngchu.) – "What did you say? I didn't hear clearly."

- Speaker B: 哦,请你再说一遍好吗? (Ò, qǐng nǐ zài shuō yí biàn hǎo ma?) – "Oh, could you please say it again?" (A polite request for clarification/repetition.)

- During farewells: 老师,再见! (Lǎoshī, zàijiàn!) – "Teacher, goodbye!" (The ubiquitous phrase, literally "see again.")

Quick FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about 再 (zài) that often arise for A1 learners.
  • Q: Does 再 (zài) always mean "again"?
  • A: While "again" or "once more" is its primary meaning, especially when referring to future repetition, its function can be more nuanced. In the 先 (xiān)...再 (zài)... structure, it translates more accurately as "then" or "afterwards," indicating a sequence of actions. However, even in this context, the underlying meaning still points to a subsequent instance or an additional step in a process, maintaining its forward-looking essence. It's about what happens next, whether as a repeat or a continuation.
  • Q: What's the core difference between 再 (zài) and 还 (hái) when asking for "more"?
  • A: This distinction is important for precision. 再 (zài) implies an additional item or instance to what has already been consumed, received, or done. It focuses on increasing quantity or repeating an action that has already occurred at least once. For example, 再要一杯茶 (zài yào yì bēi chá) means "I want another cup of tea," suggesting you've had one or more already. 还 (hái), on the other hand, typically means "still" or "in addition." When used to imply "more," 还 (hái) often refers to unfinished consumption or unmet needs from an initial allocation. For instance, 你还要吃吗? (Nǐ hái yào chī ma?) asks "Do you still want to eat?" or "Do you want more (of what you're currently eating)?" If 还 (hái) is paired with a measure word, like 我还要一杯茶 (wǒ hái yào yì bēi chá), it means "I also want a cup of tea" or "I still want a cup of tea (which I haven't received yet)." The key is 再 (zài) for a new, additional action or item, and 还 (hái) for continuation, remaining quantity, or inclusion.
  • Q: Can 再 (zài) be used with other future-oriented time words like 明天 (míngtiān) (tomorrow) or 下次 (xià cì) (next time)?
  • A: Yes, absolutely. 再 (zài) pairs very naturally and frequently with future-oriented time expressions to explicitly reinforce the idea of a future repetition. This combination strengthens the temporal clarity of the sentence. For example, 我明天再来 (wǒ míngtiān zài lái) means "I'll come again tomorrow," clearly situating the repeated action in the next day.
  • Q: Is 再 (zài) used only for positive or neutral actions?
  • A: Primarily, yes, 再 (zài) is used for neutral or positive future repetitions or additions. However, when you want to express a strong negative emphasis, meaning "never again," you combine it with 不 (bù) to form 再也不 (zài yě bù) or 再也不再 (zài yě bù zài). For example, 我再也不相信他了 (wǒ zài yě bù xiāngxìn tā le) means "I will never believe him again," conveying a resolute refusal. The simpler 不 (bù) 再 (zài) is a more general "no longer" or "not again."
  • Q: Does 再 (zài) have any classical Chinese origins that influence its modern usage?
  • A: Indeed. 再 (zài) has deep roots in classical Chinese, where it consistently signified repetition, sequence, or continuation. Its meaning evolved from concepts like "a second time" or "another instance" into its modern function as a future-oriented adverb. The 再 (zài) in 再见 (zàijiàn) is a direct linguistic inheritance from this ancient usage, embodying the timeless wish for a future encounter. This historical continuity underscores 再 (zài)'s fundamental and enduring role in the Chinese language for expressing temporal repetition and sequential events.

Basic Sentence Structure

Subject Adverb Verb Object Example
一个
我再吃一个
一遍
你再说一遍
这里
他再来这里
我们
电影
我们再看电影
明天
学校
明天再去学校
以后
工作
以后再聊工作

Meanings

The adverb {再|zài} indicates the repetition of an action that has not yet occurred or is expected to occur in the future.

1

Future Repetition

Doing something again later.

“{我|wǒ}{再|zài}{看|kàn}{一|yī}{下|xià} (I'll take another look).”

“{请|qǐng}{再|zài}{说|shuō}{一|yī}{遍|biàn} (Please say it again).”

Reference Table

Reference table for Doing things again with Zài (再)
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
Subj + 再 + Verb
我再吃
With Time
Time + Subj + 再 + Verb
明天再吃
With Object
Subj + 再 + Verb + Obj
我再买一个
Request
请 + 再 + Verb
请再试一下
Conditional
再 + Verb + 也 + Result
再试也不行
Emphasis
再三 + Verb
我再三提醒

Formality Spectrum

Formal
我将再次进行。

我将再次进行。 (General)

Neutral
我再做一次。

我再做一次。 (General)

Informal
我再弄一下。

我再弄一下。 (General)

Slang
再搞搞。

再搞搞。 (General)

The Zài Concept

再 (Zài)

Time

  • 明天 tomorrow
  • 以后 later

Actions

  • say
  • eat
  • look

Examples by Level

1

{我|wǒ}{再|zài}{吃|chī}{一|yī}{个|gè}。

I will eat one more.

2

{明|míng}{天|tiān}{再|zài}{见|jiàn}。

See you again tomorrow.

3

{请|qǐng}{再|zài}{说|shuō}{一|yī}{遍|biàn}。

Please say it again.

4

{我|wǒ}{再|zài}{买|mǎi}{一|yī}{个|gè}。

I will buy another one.

1

{我|wǒ}{想|xiǎng}{再|zài}{试|shì}{一|yī}{下|xià}。

I want to try it again.

2

{晚|wǎn}{上|shàng}{再|zài}{聊|liáo}。

Let's talk again tonight.

3

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{太|tài}{贵|guì}{了|le},{我|wǒ}{再|zài}{看|kàn}{看|kàn}。

This is too expensive, I'll look again.

4

{你|nǐ}{再|zài}{帮|bāng}{我|wǒ}{一|yī}{个|gè}{忙|máng}。

Can you help me one more time?

1

{等|děng}{我|wǒ}{回|huí}{家|jiā}{再|zài}{告|gào}{诉|sù}{你|nǐ}。

Wait until I get home, then I'll tell you.

2

{我|wǒ}{再|zài}{也|yě}{不|bù}{想|xiǎng}{见|jiàn}{他|tā}{了|le}。

I don't want to see him ever again.

3

{你|nǐ}{先|xiān}{吃|chī}{饭|fàn},{吃|chī}{完|wán}{再|zài}{去|qù}{学|xué}{习|xí}。

Eat first, then go study.

4

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{问|wèn}{题|tí}{我|wǒ}{再|zài}{考|kǎo}{虑|lǜ}{一|yī}{下|xià}。

I will consider this question again.

1

{不|bù}{管|guǎn}{他|tā}{再|zài}{怎|zěn}{么|me}{说|shuō},{我|wǒ}{都|dōu}{不|bù}{会|huì}{相|xiāng}{信|xìn}。

No matter what he says again, I won't believe it.

2

{我|wǒ}{再|zài}{三|sān}{叮|dīng}{嘱|zhǔ}{他|tā}{要|yào}{小|xiǎo}{心|xīn}。

I repeatedly urged him to be careful.

3

{等|děng}{你|nǐ}{准|zhǔn}{备|bèi}{好|hǎo}{了|le}{再|zài}{开|kāi}{始|shǐ}。

Wait until you are ready, then start.

4

{我|wǒ}{再|zài}{也|yě}{受|shòu}{不|bù}{了|liǎo}{这|zhè}{种|zhǒng}{天|tiān}{气|qì}{了|le}。

I can't stand this weather anymore.

1

{他|tā}{再|zài}{三|sān}{推|tuī}{辞|cí},{最|zuì}{后|hòu}{还|hái}{是|shì}{答|dā}{应|ying}{了|le}。

He declined repeatedly, but finally agreed.

2

{这|zhè}{件|jiàn}{事|shì}{还|hái}{得|děi}{再|zài}{商|shāng}{量|liang}{商|shāng}{量|liang}。

This matter still needs to be discussed again.

3

{再|zài}{不|bù}{走|zǒu}{就|jiù}{要|yào}{迟|chí}{到|dào}{了|le}。

If we don't leave now, we'll be late.

4

{他|tā}{再|zài}{怎|zěn}{么|me}{努|nǔ}{力|lì}{也|yě}{赶|gǎn}{不|bù}{上|shàng}{你|nǐ}。

No matter how hard he tries, he can't catch up to you.

1

{再|zài}{而|ér}{三|sān}{地|de}{提|tí}{醒|xǐng},{他|tā}{终|zhōng}{于|yú}{明|míng}{白|bai}{了|le}。

After repeated reminders, he finally understood.

2

{我|wǒ}{再|zài}{三|sān}{思|sī}{量|liang}{,{觉|jué}{得|de}{这|zhè}{个|gè}{方|fāng}{案|àn}{不|bù}{行|xíng}。

I thought it over repeatedly and felt this plan wouldn't work.

3

{再|zài}{有|yǒu}{什|shén}{么|me}{事|shì}{,{请|qǐng}{随|suí}{时|shí}{联|lián}{系|xì}。

If there is anything else, please contact me anytime.

4

{他|tā}{再|zài}{三|sān}{表|biǎo}{示|shì}{歉|qiàn}{意|yì}。

He expressed his apologies repeatedly.

Easily Confused

Doing things again with Zài (再) vs 再 vs 又

Both mean 'again'.

Doing things again with Zài (再) vs 再 vs 再见

Both contain 再.

Doing things again with Zài (再) vs 再 vs 再三

Both mean repetition.

Common Mistakes

昨天再吃

昨天又吃

再 is for future, not past.

吃再

再吃

Adverb must precede verb.

再了

再 doesn't take aspect markers.

我再明天去

我明天再去

Time usually precedes the adverb.

他再去了

他又去了

Past tense requires 又.

再看再看

再看看

Reduplication is for verbs.

再也不去

再也不去

This is actually correct, but often confused with simple 再.

再三再四

再三

Idiomatic usage.

他再做完

他做完再

Sequence of events.

再是

又是

再 doesn't work with 'to be'.

再怎么说

再怎么说

Correct, but often misused in context.

再三地

再三

Adverbial particle usage.

再有

再有

Correct, but often confused with 'another'.

Sentence Patterns

我 ___ 再 ___

请再 ___ 一遍

再 ___ 也不 ___

再三 ___

Real World Usage

Classroom constant

请再读一遍。

Restaurant very common

再来一碗。

Texting common

明天再聊。

Shopping common

我再看看。

Business occasional

再三考虑。

Travel common

再买一张票。

💡

The 'Wait' Trick

If you want to say 'Let's talk later' or 'Wait and see,' you often use {再说|zàishuō}. It's a great way to delay a conversation politely.
⚠️

Avoid the End

Never put {再|zài} at the end of a sentence. In English we say 'again' at the end, but in Chinese it must go before the verb. Incorrect: {见你再|jiàn nǐ zài}. Correct: {再见你|zàijiàn nǐ}.
🎯

Sequencing Power

Use {先|xiān} + Action 1 + {再|zài} + Action 2 to sound more like a native speaker when explaining your plans for the day.

Smart Tips

Always check if the action is future.

昨天再做 明天再做

Use '请再' for politeness.

再说 请再说

Add '一' + measure word.

再吃 再吃一个

Use '再三'.

考虑 再三考虑

Pronunciation

zài

Tone

Zài is 4th tone (falling).

Request

请再...↗

Polite request.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Zài is for the 'Z'oom into the future.

Visual Association

Imagine a clock with a 'Z' on the future side. Every time you see 'Zài', you are looking at the clock's future.

Rhyme

For the past use Yòu, for the future use Zài, keep this rule in mind and you'll do just fine!

Story

Xiao Ming is hungry. He finishes his apple and says, 'I will eat again!' He uses 'Zài' because he is planning to eat in the future. He doesn't use 'Yòu' because he hasn't eaten the second apple yet.

Word Web

再见再说再来再买再看再试

Challenge

Write down 3 things you plan to do again tomorrow using '再'.

Cultural Notes

Used daily in service industry.

Similar usage, very common in polite requests.

Often used in code-switching contexts.

Zài originally meant 'twice' or 'two times'.

Conversation Starters

你明天做什么?

这个很难吗?

你什么时候再来?

你对这个有什么看法?

Journal Prompts

Write about your plans for tomorrow.
Describe a task you need to repeat.
Explain why you are reconsidering a decision.
Write a formal request for a second chance.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct

Test Yourself

Fill in the blank.

明天我___来。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Future repetition.
Fix the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

昨天我再去了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 昨天我又去了
Past needs 又.
Choose the correct word. Multiple Choice

___说一遍。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Request for future.
Reorder. Sentence Reorder

Arrange the words in the correct order:

All words placed

Click words above to build the sentence

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我明天再来
Standard order.
Translate. Translation

I will eat again.

Answer starts with: 我再吃...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我再吃
Correct structure.
Choose the correct word. Multiple Choice

他___三考虑。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Idiomatic expression.
Fill in the blank.

___不去了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Persistence.
Reorder. Sentence Reorder

Arrange the words in the correct order:

All words placed

Click words above to build the sentence

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我再三考虑
Idiom order.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the blank.

明天我___来。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Future repetition.
Fix the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

昨天我再去了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 昨天我又去了
Past needs 又.
Choose the correct word. Multiple Choice

___说一遍。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Request for future.
Reorder. Sentence Reorder

明天 / 再 / 我 / 来

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我明天再来
Standard order.
Translate. Translation

I will eat again.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我再吃
Correct structure.
Choose the correct word. Multiple Choice

他___三考虑。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Idiomatic expression.
Fill in the blank.

___不去了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Persistence.
Reorder. Sentence Reorder

再 / 考虑 / 我 / 三

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我再三考虑
Idiom order.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

10 exercises
Fill in the blank Fill in the Blank

{老师|lǎoshī},{请|qǐng} {您|nín} ___ {讲|jiǎng} {一|yī} {次|cì}。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Put the words in the correct order Sentence Reorder

{想|xiǎng} / {我|wǒ} / {再|zài} / {一个|yī gè} / {买|mǎi}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {再|zài} {买|mǎi} {一个|yī gè}
Which sentence is correct? Multiple Choice

Asking for another beer:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {再|zài} {一|yī} {杯|bēi} {啤酒|píjiǔ}。
Fix the mistake: 'I won't watch this movie again.' Error Correction

{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {看|kàn} {这|zhè} {部|bù} {电影|diànyǐng} {再|zài} {了|le}。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {我|wǒ} {不再|bù zài} {看|kàn} {这|zhè} {部|bù} {电影|diànyǐng} {了|le}。
Translate into Chinese Translation

See you again.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {再见|zàijiàn}
Match the Chinese to the English Match Pairs

Match the pairs:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {再试一次|zài shì yīcì} : Try again
Fill in the blank Fill in the Blank

{你|nǐ} {先|xiān} {洗手|xǐshǒu},___ {吃饭|chīfàn}。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Which sentence is correct? Multiple Choice

Ordering one more boba tea:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {再|zài} {来|lái} {一|yī} {杯|bēi} {奶茶|nǎichá}。
Reorder the words Sentence Reorder

{作业|zuòyè} / {再|zài} / {写|xiě} / {你|nǐ} / {一遍|yībiàn}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {你|nǐ} {再|zài} {写|xiě} {一遍|yībiàn} {作业|zuòyè}
Fix the mistake: 'He went back again.' (Future context) Error Correction

{他|tā} {回|huí} {去|qù} {再|zài} {了|le}。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {他|tā} {再|zài} {回|huí} {去|qù} {了|le}。

Score: /10

FAQ (8)

No, use Yòu.

Before the verb.

It is neutral.

Use '再也不'.

No, it is invariant.

No, Zài is for future.

Yes, same usage.

再试一下.

Scaffolded Practice

1

1

2

2

3

3

4

4

Mastery Progress

Needs Practice

Improving

Strong

Mastered

In Other Languages

Spanish partial

otra vez

Chinese distinguishes by time (past/future).

French partial

encore

Temporal restriction.

German partial

wieder

Future vs past.

Japanese partial

また

Temporal split.

Arabic partial

مرة أخرى

Morphology.

Chinese high

再/又

None, this is the native system.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

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