A1 Conjunctions & Connectors 14 min read Easy

As Long As... (只要...就)

Use 只要...就 to show that one simple condition is all it takes to reach a result.
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Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Use '只要...就' to express that one condition is enough to guarantee a result.

  • Place '只要' before the condition: {只要|zhǐyào} {你|nǐ} {来|lái}...
  • Place '就' before the result: ...{就|jiù} {可以|kěyǐ} {吃饭|chīfàn}.
  • The condition must be a sufficient requirement for the result to happen.
只要 (Condition) + 就 (Result)

Overview

In Chinese grammar, expressing conditionality is a nuanced art. The 只要...就 (zhǐyào...jiù) pattern is a fundamental structure used to express a sufficient condition. It conveys the idea that as long as a single, specified condition is met, a particular result is guaranteed to follow.

Its core meaning is equivalent to the English "as long as... then..." or "provided that...". This structure is not about setting a high bar or a strict, exclusive requirement; rather, it emphasizes the simplicity and sufficiency of the condition.

It implies that the condition, while necessary, is all that is needed to trigger the outcome.

Understanding 只要...就 is crucial for moving beyond basic sentence structures. It reflects a common logical framework in the Chinese language: identifying a single, pivotal requirement that unlocks a result. Think of it as a key for a specific door.

There may be other keys for other doors, but as long as you have this particular key (只要), you can open this specific door (就). This contrasts sharply with patterns that express hypothetical situations (like 如果, 'if') or exclusive, necessary conditions (like 只有, 'only if'). Mastering 只要...就 allows you to articulate promises, reassurances, and cause-and-effect relationships with precision and a natural-sounding cadence.

It is a cornerstone of expressing straightforward conditionality in both spoken and written Chinese.

From a linguistic standpoint, 只要 (literally "only need") acts as the protasis, introducing the condition clause. The word 就 (jiù) is an adverb that introduces the apodosis, or the result clause. 就 is a critical functional word in Mandarin that indicates sequence, consequence, or immediacy.

In this pattern, it highlights the direct and often swift connection between the condition being met and the result occurring. The pairing is essential; 只要 sets the stage, and 就 delivers the guaranteed outcome, creating a complete and logical unit of meaning. Its frequent use in daily life makes it an indispensable tool for learners aiming for fluency.

How This Grammar Works

The 只要...就 pattern operates on a principle of sufficiency. The first part, 只要 (zhǐyào), introduces a condition that is enough on its own to cause the result. The second part, 就 (jiù), signals that the result follows directly and certainly from that condition.
The relationship is one of guarantee. If the 只要 clause is true, the 就 clause will also be true. This structure is often used to make a point, offer a simple solution, or give reassurance by highlighting the low threshold for a desired outcome.
Let's break down the components. 只要 (zhǐyào) is composed of 只 (zhǐ), meaning "only" or "just," and 要 (yào), meaning "to want" or "to need." Together, they mean "to only need." This etymology reveals the pattern's essence: it specifies the one thing you need. For example:
只要你努力学习，你的中文就一定会进步。
Zhǐyào nǐ nǔlì xuéxí, nǐ de Zhōngwén jiù yīdìng huì jìnbù.
(As long as you study hard, your Chinese will definitely improve.)
Here, studying hard is presented as the sufficient condition. The sentence implies that other factors, while perhaps helpful, are not the core requirement. Meeting this one condition guarantees the result.
The role of 就 (jiù) is equally important. It is an adverb that connects the two clauses, marking the result as a direct consequence of the condition. It often imparts a sense of immediacy or ease, suggesting the result follows without delay or difficulty once the condition is met.
Omitting 就 would render the sentence grammatically incomplete and unnatural, as the logical link between condition and result would be broken. 就 serves as the grammatical glue that binds the outcome to the premise.
Consider this example:
只要明天不下雨，我们就去爬山。
Zhǐyào míngtiān bù xià yǔ, wǒmen jiù qù páshān.
(As long as it doesn't rain tomorrow, we will go hiking.)
The condition is simple: no rain. If that condition holds, the consequence—going hiking—is set. The 就 reinforces this certainty.
It's not a negotiation or a possibility; it's a stated plan contingent on one single factor. This structure provides clarity and removes ambiguity, which is why it's so common in planning, bargaining, and setting simple rules.

Formation Pattern

1
The structure for 只要...就 is consistent and follows a clear logical order. The condition clause with 只要 comes first, followed by the result clause with 就.
2
Basic Structure
3
The most common formation places the subject of the second clause immediately before 就.
4
| | Part 1 | | Part 2 |
5
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
6
| Pattern | 只要 (zhǐyào) + Condition, | Subject + 就 (jiù) + Result. |
7
| Example | 只要你来， | 我就很高兴。 |
8
| | Zhǐyào nǐ lái, | wǒ jiù hěn gāoxìng. |
9
| | (As long as you come,) | (I will be very happy.) |
10
Subject Placement Variations
11
The placement of subjects can vary depending on whether the subject is the same or different in the two clauses.
12
1. Same Subject in Both Clauses
13
If the subject is the same for both the condition and the result, it can be placed at the very beginning of the sentence or omitted from the second clause.
14
| Structure | Example |
15
| :--- | :--- |
16
| Subj. + 只要 + Condition, 就 + Result. | 你只要按这个按钮，就能开机。 Nǐ zhǐyào àn zhège ànniǔ, jiù néng kāijī. (As long as you press this button, you can turn it on.) |
17
| 只要 + Condition, Subj. + 就 + Result. | 只要每天练习，你的口语就一定会变好。 Zhǐyào měitiān liànxí, nǐ de kǒuyǔ jiù yīdìng huì biàn hǎo. (As long as you practice every day, your spoken Chinese will definitely get better. Note: 'You' is the implied subject of 'practice'.) |
18
2. Different Subjects in Each Clause
19
When the subjects are different, the subject for each clause must be stated clearly within its respective clause.
20
| Structure | Example |
21
| :--- | :--- |
22
| 只要 + Subj. 1 + Condition, Subj. 2 + 就 + Result. | 只要老板同意，我们就能提前下班。 Zhǐyào lǎobǎn tóngyì, wǒmen jiù néng tíqián xiàbān. (As long as the boss agrees, we can get off work early.) |
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就 Placement Rule
24
A critical rule is that 就 (jiù) is an adverb and must come after the subject but before the verb in the result clause. It cannot be placed before the subject.
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Correct: ...我们就能去。 (...wǒmen jiù néng qù.) (we then can go.)
26
Incorrect: ...就我们能去。 (...jiù wǒmen néng qù.)
27
This is a fundamental aspect of Chinese syntax, where adverbs typically modify the verb phrase that follows them. Think of 就 as inseparable from the action it introduces.

When To Use It

This pattern is versatile and appears across a wide range of contexts, from casual conversations to formal instructions. Its primary function is to establish a clear, sufficient condition for an outcome.
1. Stating a General Truth or Rule
只要...就 is frequently used to express principles or universal truths where one condition reliably leads to a result.
在中国，只要你努力工作，就有机会成功。
Zài Zhōngguó, zhǐyào nǐ nǔlì gōngzuò, jiù yǒu jīhuì chénggōng.
(In China, as long as you work hard, you have the opportunity to succeed.)
This sentence frames hard work as the sufficient ingredient for the opportunity to succeed, a common cultural sentiment.
2. Making Plans and Setting Conditions
It's ideal for coordinating plans with others, as it clearly states the one requirement for the plan to proceed.
只要你买电影票，我就买爆米花。
Zhǐyào nǐ mǎi diànyǐng piào, wǒ jiù mǎi bàomǐhuā.
(As long as you buy the movie tickets, I'll buy the popcorn.)
This creates a simple, fair condition for a shared activity. It functions as a casual form of social contract.
3. Persuasion and Bargaining
In negotiations, 只要...就 is a powerful tool to propose a compromise, highlighting how a small concession can lead to a desired action (like a purchase).
只要您便宜一点，我现在就买。
Zhǐyào nín piányí yīdiǎn, wǒ xiànzài jiù mǎi.
(As long as you make it a little cheaper, I'll buy it right now.)
Here, it frames the speaker's action (I'll buy it now) as guaranteed if the seller meets their one simple condition.
4. Offering Reassurance
This pattern can also be used to comfort someone or alleviate their worries by simplifying a problem into a single, manageable condition.
别担心，只要我们在一起，就什么都不怕。
Bié dānxīn, zhǐyào wǒmen zài yīqǐ, jiù shénme dōu bùpà.
(Don't worry, as long as we are together, we aren't afraid of anything.)
It presents "being together" as the all-encompassing solution to fear, providing emotional support.

Common Mistakes

Learners often make a few predictable errors when first using 只要...就. Understanding these pitfalls is key to mastering the pattern.
1. Forgetting to Use 就
This is the most frequent mistake. English speakers are accustomed to "as long as..." without a mandatory "then," so they often drop the 就. In Chinese, 只要 creates a strong expectation for a result marker. Without 就, the sentence feels incomplete, as if it's hanging without resolution.
  • Incorrect: 只要你喜欢，我送给你。 (Zhǐyào nǐ xǐhuān, wǒ sòng gěi nǐ.)
  • Correct: 只要你喜欢，我就送给你。 (Zhǐyào nǐ xǐhuān, wǒ jiù sòng gěi nǐ.)
(As long as you like it, I'll give it to you.)
2. Misplacing 就 Before the Subject
As an adverb, 就 must follow the subject and precede the verb. Placing it at the beginning of the result clause is a common error stemming from English sentence patterns.
  • Incorrect: 只要天气好，就我们可以去公园。 (Zhǐyào tiānqì hǎo, jiù wǒmen kěyǐ qù gōngyuán.)
  • Correct: 只要天气好，我们就可以去公园。 (Zhǐyào tiānqì hǎo, wǒmen jiù kěyǐ qù gōngyuán.)
(As long as the weather is good, we can go to the park.)
3. Confusing 只要...就 with 如果...就 (If...then)
While both can translate to "if" in some contexts, their implications are different. 如果 (rúguǒ) introduces a hypothetical situation, whereas 只要 introduces a sufficient condition. 只要 implies more certainty and focuses on the condition as being the sole requirement that matters.
| Pattern | Meaning & Nuance | Example |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| 只要...就 | Sufficient Condition: "As long as this one thing is true, the result is guaranteed." Emphasizes the ease or simplicity of the condition. | 只要你道歉，他就会原谅你。 Zhǐyào nǐ dàoqiàn, tā jiù huì yuánliàng nǐ. (As long as you apologize, he will forgive you. Implies apologizing is all that's needed.) |
| 如果...就 | Hypothetical Condition: "If this happens (it may or may not), then that will happen." Simply states a potential cause-and-effect without emphasizing sufficiency. | 如果你道歉，他就会原谅你。 Rúguǒ nǐ dàoqiàn, tā jiù huì yuánliàng nǐ. (If you apologize, he will forgive you. A neutral, hypothetical statement.) |
4. Confusing 只要...就 with 只有...才 (Only if...then)
This is a critical distinction. 只要...就 sets a low bar (sufficiency), while 只有...才 (zhǐyǒu...cái) sets a high, exclusive bar (necessity). 只有 states that the condition is the only way to achieve the result.
  • 只要 (zhǐyào) -> A sufficient condition (easy, one of potentially many ways).
  • 只有 (zhǐyǒu) -> A necessary and exclusive condition (difficult, the only way).
Furthermore, 就 (jiù) implies the result happens easily or quickly, while 才 (cái) often implies the result happens with difficulty or after a delay.
| | 只要...就 | 只有...才 |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Condition Type | Sufficient (This is enough) | Necessary & Exclusive (This is the only way) |
| Implied Ease | Easy, straightforward (就) | Difficult, slow, or with effort (才) |
| Example | 只要有钱，就能买到快乐。 Zhǐyào yǒu qián, jiù néng mǎi dào kuàilè. (As long as you have money, you can buy happiness. - A cynical but grammatically valid view that money is a sufficient condition.) | 只有努力工作，才能赚到钱。 Zhǐyǒu nǔlì gōngzuò, cái néng zhuàn dào qián. (Only if you work hard can you earn money. - Presents hard work as the sole, necessary path to earning money.) |
Using 只要 when you mean 只有 can dramatically change your meaning, turning a strict requirement into a casual suggestion, so this distinction is vital.

Real Conversations

To see how 只要...就 functions in the wild, let's look at some examples from modern, everyday contexts.

1. Texting / WeChat Conversation

A

A

你周末有什么计划吗？(Nǐ zhōumò yǒu shé me jìhuà ma? - Do you have any plans for the weekend?)
B

B

还没想好。只要不下雨，我就想去海边。(Hái méi xiǎng hǎo. Zhǐyào bùxià yǔ, wǒ jiù xiǎng qù hǎibiān. - Haven't decided yet. As long as it doesn't rain, I want to go to the beach.)
A

Analysis

B sets a single, simple condition (no rain) for their desired plan. It's clear and direct.*

2. At the Office

M

Manager

这个报告什么时候能写完？(Zhège bàogào shénme shíhòu néng xiě wán? - When can this report be finished?)
E

Employee

只要给我今天下午的时间，我下班前就一定能完成。(Zhǐyào gěi wǒ jīntiān xiàwǔ de shíjiān, wǒ xiàbān qián jiù yīdìng néng wánchéng. - As long as you give me this afternoon, I can definitely finish it before leaving work.)
A

Analysis

The employee uses the pattern to make a confident promise contingent on being given the necessary time. It conveys capability and sets a clear expectation.*

3. Social Media Post (e.g., on Weibo or Xiaohongshu)

C

Caption

姐妹们，这家奶茶店太好喝了！只要你喝一次，就一定会爱上！

(Jiěmèimen, zhè jiā nǎichá diàn tài hǎo hēle! Zhǐyào nǐ hē yīcì, jiù yīdìng huì ài shàng!)

(Sisters, this milk tea shop is so good! As long as you drink it once, you will definitely fall in love with it!)

A

Analysis

This is a persuasive use of the pattern common in reviews and advertising. It frames the experience ('falling in love' with the tea) as an inevitable result of trying it just once, emphasizing how good it is.*

4. Parent Talking to a Child

P

Parent

只要你先完成作业，就可以看一个小时的电视。

(Zhǐyào nǐ xiān wánchéng zuòyè, jiù kěyǐ kàn yī個 xiǎoshí de diànshì.)

(As long as you finish your homework first, you can watch one hour of TV.)

A

Analysis

A classic example of setting a simple rule. It establishes a clear cause-and-effect relationship for behavior, a common parenting and educational tool.*

Quick FAQ

Q: Can I use 只要 without 就?

In very casual, clipped speech, native speakers might occasionally omit 就, but it is rare and sounds incomplete. As a learner, you should always use the complete 只要...就 pair. Sticking to the full pattern ensures grammatical correctness and clarity. Dropping 就 is an advanced, context-dependent variation that should be avoided until you have a native-like feel for the language.

Q: Does 只要 always have to be at the start of the sentence?

Mostly, yes. The condition clause introduced by 只要 almost always precedes the result clause. However, if the subject is the same in both clauses, you can place the subject before 只要 for emphasis: 你只要努力，就能成功 (Nǐ zhǐyào nǔlì, jiù néng chénggōng). For clarity and correctness, especially at the A1-B1 levels, starting the entire sentence with 只要 is the safest and most common structure.

Q: Is this pattern formal or informal?

It is remarkably versatile and can be used in almost any register. You will hear it in casual chats with friends, in business negotiations, in academic writing, and in legal documents. Its logical clarity makes it suitable for formal contexts, while its simplicity makes it a staple of informal speech. The tone is dictated by the vocabulary around it, not the pattern itself.

Q: Can I use it to talk about past events?

Yes, absolutely. The pattern works for all tenses. When used for the past, it describes a condition that, when met, triggered a past result.

Example

昨天只要他一笑，那个婴儿就不哭了。

Zuótiān zhǐyào tā yī xiào, nàgè yīng'ér jiù bù kūle.
(Yesterday, as long as he smiled, the baby would stop crying.)
Q: What if there is no subject in the result clause?

This typically happens when the subject is the same as in the first clause and is omitted for brevity. In this case, 就 simply sits right before the verb phrase.

Example

只要想学，就永远不晚。

Zhǐyào xiǎng xué, jiù yǒngyuǎn bù wǎn.
(As long as one wants to learn, it is never too late.) Here, the implied subject ('one') is omitted in the second clause.

Basic Structure Table

Part 1 Condition Part 2 Result
只要
你来
就
可以
只要
有钱
就
能买
只要
下雨
就
不走
只要
努力
就
成功
只要
喜欢
就
买吧
只要
想学
就
能会

Common Variations

Form Usage
只要...就...
Standard
只要...便...
Formal/Literary
只要...即...
Very Formal

Meanings

This structure indicates that a specific condition is sufficient for a certain result to occur.

1

Sufficient Condition

Expressing that one requirement is enough.

“{只要|zhǐyào} {有|yǒu} {时间|shíjiān}，{我|wǒ} {就|jiù} {去|qù}.”

“{只要|zhǐyào} {下雨|xiàyǔ}，{我们|wǒmen} {就|jiù} {不|bù} {去|qù}.”

Reference Table

Reference table for As Long As... (只要...就)
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
只要 A 就 B
只要你来，我就开心。
Negative
只要不 A 就 B
只要不迟到，就没问题。
Question
只要 A 就 B 吗？
只要你努力，就能成功吗？
Short Answer
只要 A 就 B
只要有时间，就去。
Emphasis
只要 A，就一定 B
只要你坚持，就一定能赢。
Complex
只要 A，结果就 B
只要你答应，事情就解决了。

Formality Spectrum

Formal
只要您莅临，便可。

只要您莅临，便可。 (Invitation)

Neutral
只要你来，就可以了。

只要你来，就可以了。 (Invitation)

Informal
你来就行。

你来就行。 (Invitation)

Slang
你来就成。

你来就成。 (Invitation)

The Logic of 只要

只要...就

Condition

  • 努力 hard work

Result

  • 成功 success
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Examples by Level

1

{只要|zhǐyào} {你|nǐ} {来|lái}，{就|jiù} {好|hǎo}.

As long as you come, it's good.

2

{只要|zhǐyào} {有|yǒu} {钱|qián}，{就|jiù} {可以|kěyǐ} {买|mǎi}.

As long as you have money, you can buy it.

3

{只要|zhǐyào} {你|nǐ} {吃|chī}，{就|jiù} {不|bù} {饿|è}.

As long as you eat, you won't be hungry.

4

{只要|zhǐyào} {下雨|xiàyǔ}，{就|jiù} {冷|lěng}.

As long as it rains, it's cold.

1

{只要|zhǐyào} {你|nǐ} {努力|nǔlì}，{就|jiù} {会|huì} {成功|chénggōng}.

As long as you work hard, you will succeed.

2

{只要|zhǐyào} {明天|míngtiān} {晴天|qíngtiān}，{我们|wǒmen} {就|jiù} {去|qù} {爬山|páshān}.

As long as it's sunny tomorrow, we'll go hiking.

3

{只要|zhǐyào} {你|nǐ} {告诉|gàosù} {我|wǒ}，{我|wǒ} {就|jiù} {帮|bāng} {你|nǐ}.

As long as you tell me, I will help you.

4

{只要|zhǐyào} {不|bù} {迟到|chídào}，{就|jiù} {可以|kěyǐ} {进|jìn} {教室|jiàoshì}.

As long as you aren't late, you can enter the classroom.

1

{只要|zhǐyào} {你|nǐ} {坚持|jiānchí} {下去|xiàqù}，{就|jiù} {一定|yīdìng} {能|néng} {看到|kàndào} {结果|jiéguǒ}.

As long as you persist, you will definitely see results.

2

{只要|zhǐyào} {产品|chǎnpǐn} {质量|zhìliàng} {好|hǎo}，{就|jiù} {不|bù} {怕|pà} {没有|méiyǒu} {客户|kèhù}.

As long as the product quality is good, you don't have to worry about not having customers.

3

{只要|zhǐyào} {你|nǐ} {愿意|yuànyì} {学|xué}，{就|jiù} {没有|méiyǒu} {学|xué} {不会|bùhuì} {的|de} {东西|dōngxi}.

As long as you are willing to learn, there is nothing you cannot learn.

4

{只要|zhǐyào} {我们|wǒmen} {团结|tuánjié} {一致|yīzhì}，{就|jiù} {能|néng} {克服|kèfú} {困难|kùnnán}.

As long as we are united, we can overcome difficulties.

1

{只要|zhǐyào} {合同|hétóng} {条款|tiáokuǎn} {明确|míngquè}，{就|jiù} {可以|kěyǐ} {签署|qiānshǔ}.

As long as the contract terms are clear, it can be signed.

2

{只要|zhǐyào} {政府|zhèngfǔ} {政策|zhèngcè} {支持|zhīchí}，{这个|zhège} {行业|hángyè} {就|jiù} {会|huì} {快速|kuàisù} {发展|fāzhǎn}.

As long as government policy supports it, this industry will develop rapidly.

3

{只要|zhǐyào} {你|nǐ} {能|néng} {证明|zhèngmíng} {自己|zìjǐ} {的|de} {能力|nénglì}，{就|jiù} {能|néng} {得到|dédào} {这份|zhèfèn} {工作|gōngzuò}.

As long as you can prove your ability, you can get this job.

4

{只要|zhǐyào} {环境|huánjìng} {保护|bǎohù} {得|de} {好|hǎo}，{旅游业|lǚyóuyè} {就|jiù} {能|néng} {持续|chíxù} {增长|zēngzhǎng}.

As long as the environment is well protected, tourism can grow sustainably.

1

{只要|zhǐyào} {逻辑|luójí} {严密|yánmì}，{论点|lùndiǎn} {就|jiù} {站|zhàn} {得|de} {住|zhù} {脚|jiǎo}.

As long as the logic is rigorous, the argument will hold water.

2

{只要|zhǐyào} {我们|wǒmen} {能够|nénggòu} {达成|dáchéng} {共识|gòngshí}，{合作|hézuò} {就|jiù} {指日可待|zhǐrìkědài}.

As long as we can reach a consensus, cooperation is just around the corner.

3

{只要|zhǐyào} {技术|jìshù} {创新|chuàngxīn} {不断|bùduàn}，{企业|qǐyè} {就|jiù} {能|néng} {立于不败之地|lìyúbùbàizhīdì}.

As long as technological innovation continues, the company will remain invincible.

4

{只要|zhǐyào} {人心|rénxīn} {所向|suǒxiàng}，{改革|gǎigé} {就|jiù} {能|néng} {顺利|shùnlì} {推进|tuījìn}.

As long as the people support it, reform can be smoothly advanced.

1

{只要|zhǐyào} {历史|lìshǐ} {的|de} {车轮|chēlún} {滚滚向前|gǔngǔnxiàngqián}，{旧|jiù} {的|de} {秩序|zhìxù} {就|jiù} {终将|zhōngjiāng} {瓦解|wǎjiějiě}.

As long as the wheels of history roll forward, the old order will eventually collapse.

2

{只要|zhǐyào} {艺术|yìshù} {能够|nénggòu} {触动|chùdòng} {灵魂|línghún}，{它|tā} {就|jiù} {具有|jùyǒu} {永恒|yǒnghéng} {的|de} {价值|jiàzhí}.

As long as art can touch the soul, it possesses eternal value.

3

{只要|zhǐyào} {真理|zhēnlǐ} {在|zài} {手|shǒu}，{就|jiù} {无惧|wújù} {任何|rènhé} {挑战|tiǎozhàn}.

As long as one holds the truth, one fears no challenge.

4

{只要|zhǐyào} {生命|shēngmìng} {不息|bùxī}，{奋斗|fèndòu} {就|jiù} {不止|bùzhǐ}.

As long as life continues, the struggle does not end.

Easily Confused

As Long As... (只要...就) vs 如果 vs 只要

Both are conditional. Learners mix them up.

As Long As... (只要...就) vs 只有 vs 只要

Both start with 'zhi'.

As Long As... (只要...就) vs 只要...就 vs 无论...都

Both are connectors.

Common Mistakes

✗

只要你来，我高兴。

✓

只要你来，我就高兴。

Missing '就'.
✗

只要你来就，我高兴。

✓

只要你来，我就高兴。

Misplaced '就'.
✗

只要你来，我就高兴吗？

✓

只要你来，我就高兴。

Unnecessary question particle.
✗

只要你来，就我高兴。

✓

只要你来，我就高兴。

Subject placement error.
✗

如果下雨，我就不去。

✓

只要下雨，我就不去。

Using '如果' for a sufficient condition.
✗

只要你，就开心。

✓

只要你来，我就开心。

Missing verb in condition.
✗

只要你来，就开心。

✓

只要你来，我就开心。

Missing subject in result.
✗

只要你努力，就一定成功。

✓

只要你努力，就一定会成功。

Missing modal verb for naturalness.
✗

只要你努力，就成功了。

✓

只要你努力，就会成功。

Tense mismatch.
✗

只要你努力，就成功。

✓

只要你努力，就会成功。

Missing aspect marker.
✗

只要你努力，就成功。

✓

只要你努力，便能成功。

Register mismatch.
✗

只要你努力，就成功。

✓

只要你努力，即能成功。

Register mismatch.
✗

只要你努力，就成功。

✓

只要你努力，便会成功。

Register mismatch.

Sentence Patterns

只要___，就___。

只要___，就一定___。

只要___，就没问题。

只要___，就___吗？

Real World Usage

Texting very common

只要你到了，就告诉我。

Job Interview common

只要我有机会，就会努力。

Food Delivery common

只要下单，就送。

Travel common

只要有地图，就不会迷路。

Social Media very common

只要点赞，就送礼。

Rules common

只要遵守规则，就没问题。

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💡

Don't forget 就

The '就' is the bridge. Without it, the sentence feels incomplete.
⚠️

Not 'If'

Remember it's for sufficient conditions, not just 'if'.
🎯

Use it for promises

It's great for making promises to friends.
💬

Common in business

Used to define terms clearly.

Smart Tips

Use 只要 to make your requirement clear.

你来，我高兴。 → 只要你来，我就高兴。

Use 只要 to show your commitment.

我帮你。 → 只要你需要，我就帮你。

Use 只要 to define conditions.

你付钱，我们送货。 → 只要你付钱，我们就送货。

Use 只要 to point out the solution.

你努力，会成功。 → 只要你努力，就会成功。

Pronunciation

jiù (falling tone)

Tone of 就

就 (jiù) is 4th tone. It should be sharp and decisive.

Condition-Result

只要... (pause) 就...

The pause emphasizes the condition.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of '只要' as a key. If you have the key (condition), the door (result) opens.

Visual Association

Imagine a light switch. '只要' is flipping the switch, '就' is the light turning on immediately.

Rhyme

只要你努力，成功就来临。

Story

Xiao Ming wanted a cake. His mom said, 'As long as you finish your homework, you get cake.' Xiao Ming finished his homework. He got his cake.

Word Web

只要就条件结果如果一定

Challenge

Write 3 sentences using '只要...就' about your daily life in 5 minutes.

Cultural Notes

Used frequently in workplace settings to define tasks.

Often used in casual conversation with '就行了'.

Similar usage, often mixed with Cantonese particles.

Derived from classical Chinese logical structures.

Conversation Starters

“

只要有时间，你最想做什么？

“

只要努力，就能学好中文吗？

“

只要有钱，就能买到幸福吗？

“

只要政策支持，这个行业就能发展吗？

Journal Prompts

Write about what you need to be happy.
Write about your goals for learning Chinese.
Write about a business idea you have.
Write an argument about a social issue.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

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Test Yourself

Fill in the blank.

只要你来，___高兴。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 就
就 is the required bridge.
Fix the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

只要你来，我高兴。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要你来，我就高兴
Missing 就.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要下雨就冷
Correct structure.
Reorder the words. Sentence Reorder

Arrange the words in the correct order:

All words placed

Click words above to build the sentence

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要你来就开心
Correct order.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

As long as you study, you will succeed.

Answer starts with: 只要你...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要你学习，就会成功
Correct translation.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

Use 只要...就 to talk about money.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要有钱，就能买东西
Correct structure.
Match condition to result. Match Pairs

Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 就会成功
Logical match.
Complete the dialogue. Dialogue Completion

A: 我想学中文。 B: ___

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要你学，就能学会
Natural response.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the blank.

只要你来，___高兴。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 就
就 is the required bridge.
Fix the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

只要你来，我高兴。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要你来，我就高兴
Missing 就.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要下雨就冷
Correct structure.
Reorder the words. Sentence Reorder

你 / 只要 / 就 / 来 / 开心

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要你来就开心
Correct order.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

As long as you study, you will succeed.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要你学习，就会成功
Correct translation.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

Use 只要...就 to talk about money.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要有钱，就能买东西
Correct structure.
Match condition to result. Match Pairs

Match: 只要努力 -> ?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 就会成功
Logical match.
Complete the dialogue. Dialogue Completion

A: 我想学中文。 B: ___

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要你学，就能学会
Natural response.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

15 exercises
Fill in the missing part of the pair. Fill in the Blank

___不下雨，我们就出去玩。

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

只要 / 便宜 / 就 / 我 / 买

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要便宜我就买
Translate 'As long as you are here, I am happy' into Chinese. Translation

As long as you are here, I am happy.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要你在，我就开心。
Identify the natural response. Multiple Choice

只要你帮我，___。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我就谢谢你
Match the beginning to the correct ending. Match Pairs

Match the clauses:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要有钱... | ...我就买新衣服
Fix the placement of '就'. Error Correction

只要他请客，就我们去。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要他请客，我们就去。
Fill in the blank. Fill in the Blank

只要扫这个二维码，___可以领优惠券。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 就
Translate: 'As long as it's delicious, I'll eat it.' Translation

As long as it's delicious, I'll eat it.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要好吃，我就吃。
Reorder: {努力|nǔlì} / {只要|zhǐyào} / {就|jiù} / {能|néng} / {成功|chénggōng} Sentence Reorder

努力 / 只要 / 就 / 能 / 成功

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要努力就能成功
Which sounds most natural for a promise? Multiple Choice

I promise: As long as I have time, I will call you.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要我有时间，我就给你打电话。
Fill in the blank. Fill in the Blank

只要你告诉我真相，我___不生气。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 就
Correct the conjunction. Error Correction

只有不下雪，我们就去跑步。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要不下雪，我们就去跑步。
Match the condition to the result. Match Pairs

Match conditions and results:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要手机有电... | ...我就不担心
Translate: 'As long as you study, you'll learn.' Translation

As long as you study, you'll learn.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要你学习，就能学会。
Reorder: {明天|míngtiān} / {只要|zhǐyào} / {空|kòng} / {有|yǒu} / {就|jiù} / {我|wǒ} / {来|lái} Sentence Reorder

明天 / 只要 / 空 / 有 / 就 / 我 / 来

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 只要明天有空，我就来。

Score: /15

FAQ (8)

No, '就' is necessary to connect the two parts.

No, '只要' is for sufficient conditions.

Yes, it is very common in formal writing.

You can use different subjects.

Yes, it is very common in daily speech.

Yes, it works for past conditions too.

No, it's one of the easier structures.

Yes, '只要不...就...'.

Scaffolded Practice

1

1

2

2

3

3

4

4

Mastery Progress

Needs Practice

Improving

Strong

Mastered

Sign up free to practice

In Other Languages

Spanish high

siempre que

Spanish uses subjunctive mood.

French high

tant que

French structure is more temporal.

German high

solange

German word order changes.

Japanese high

さえ...ば

Japanese uses particles.

Arabic moderate

طالما

Arabic is more verb-focused.

Chinese none

只要

N/A

Learning Path

Prerequisites

Next
Expressing 'As Long As' ({只要|zhǐyào}...{就|jiù})

Learn These First

A2 Builds On

If... Then... (Ruguo... Jiu...)

Overview The ability to express conditions and their consequences is fundamental in any language. In Chinese, the `如果...

Continue With

A1 Recommends

Expressing 'As Long As' ({只要|zhǐyào}...{就|jiù})

Overview `只要...就...` (zhǐyào... jiù...) is a fundamental Chinese grammatical pattern used to express a **sufficient c...

Related Grammar Rules

C2

Advanced Causality: So... That (以致, 致使, 从而)

Overview Mastering advanced causal connectors is a hallmark of the C2 level, allowing you to articulate complex cause-a...
A1

Doing two things at once (一边...一边)

Overview In Chinese, expressing two actions occurring simultaneously is a fundamental aspect of clear communication. The...
A1

Using `虽然...但是` (suīrán...dànshì) to Say "Although... But..."

Overview The Chinese conjunction pair `虽然...但是` (`suīrán...dànshì`) is a fundamental structure for expressing contra...
A1

Casual 'If' in Chinese: Using 要是 (yàoshi)

Overview The ability to discuss conditions—"if this, then that"—is fundamental to any language. In Chinese, the concept...
B2

As Soon As... Then... (一...就...)

Overview The structure **`一...就...` (yī...jiù...)** is one of the most fundamental and high-frequency patterns in Man...
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