A1 Sentence Structure 12 min read Easy

The 'is' word for descriptions (很 hěn)

Use 很|hěn to connect subjects to adjectives; it acts as a neutral 'is' rather than 'very'.
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Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

In Chinese, you don't use 'to be' (shì) with adjectives; instead, use 'hěn' to connect the subject and the description.

  • Use {很|hěn} + adjective for simple descriptions: {他|tā}{很|hěn}{好|hǎo} (He is good).
  • Do not use {是|shì} with adjectives: {他|tā}{是|shì}{好|hǎo} is grammatically incorrect.
  • In the negative, replace {很|hěn} with {不|bù}: {他|tā}{不|bù}{好|hǎo} (He is not good).
Subject + 很 + Adjective

Overview

很 (hěn) is a fundamental particle in Chinese grammar, frequently encountered in elementary descriptions. While dictionaries often translate 很 (hěn) as "very," its primary function in everyday A1 Chinese is not to intensify but to serve as a neutral degree adverb, effectively completing the predicate when an adjective describes a subject. It provides structural balance and ensures your statements are understood as simple facts rather than comparisons.

Without 很 (hěn), a bare adjective functioning as a predicate can often carry an implied comparative meaning or an emphatic tone, which can unintentionally alter your message. For instance, 我忙 (Wǒ máng) might suggest "I am busy (and you are not)," whereas 我很忙 (Wǒ hěn máng) neutrally states "I am busy." Mastering 很 (hěn) is crucial for forming grammatically correct and naturally sounding descriptive sentences from the outset of your Chinese learning.

很 (hěn) allows you to describe a wide range of qualities and states, from 我很好 (Wǒ hěn hǎo) (I am well) to 这个很贵 (Zhège hěn guì) (This is expensive), without implying an excessive degree. Its role is often compared to the function of "is/am/are" in English adjective clauses, yet it operates under distinct Chinese grammatical principles.

How This Grammar Works

To understand 很 (hěn), you must first grasp a core principle of Chinese grammar: adjectives function as stative verbs. Unlike English, where adjectives require a form of the verb "to be" (e.g., "is," "am," "are") to act as a predicate, Chinese adjectives can, in theory, stand alone. However, this standalone usage is often reserved for specific contexts.
In standard modern Mandarin, a lone adjective serving as the predicate of a sentence typically carries an inherent comparative or emphatic meaning. For instance, simply stating 他高 (Tā gāo) (He is tall) can imply a comparison, such as "He is tall (compared to someone else)," or suggest an exceptionally strong degree: "He's really tall!" This nuance is often subtle but significant.
很 (hěn) resolves this potential ambiguity. When placed before an adjective, it neutralizes any implied comparison or emphasis, rendering the statement a simple, objective fact. It functions as a default intensifier that does not truly intensify.
Linguists sometimes refer to it as a "dummy intensifier" or a "neutral degree adverb" because its primary role is structural completeness rather than semantic augmentation of "very."
Consider the sentence structure: Subject + Adjective. This basic pattern can feel incomplete or grammatically "unbalanced" to a native Chinese speaker's ear when making a neutral descriptive statement. 很 (hěn) acts as the necessary component to complete this predicate structure, making the adjective sound natural and non-comparative.
It serves as a fundamental grammatical link, indicating a neutral degree of the adjective's quality. This is a critical distinction from English, where adding "very" always implies a heightened degree. In Chinese, 很 (hěn) is typically the default, neutral choice.

Word Order Rules

The word order for simple descriptive sentences using 很 (hěn) is consistent and straightforward. It follows a Subject + 很 (hěn) + Adjective pattern. This structure is foundational for A1 learners and deviates significantly from English sentence construction.
Crucially, the Chinese verb 是 (shì) (to be) is never used before an adjective in this descriptive pattern. This is a common and persistent error for learners whose native languages heavily rely on a "to be" verb for adjective predicates. 是 (shì) is reserved for equating nouns or identifying subjects (e.g., "He is a student," 他是学生 (Tā shì xuésheng)), not for linking subjects to adjectives.
Observe the contrast:
| English Example | Incorrect Chinese Translation | Correct Chinese Translation |
| :---------------------- | :---------------------------- | :------------------------------ |
| The weather is good. | 天气是好。 (Tiānqì shì hǎo.) | 天气很好。 (Tiānqì hěn hǎo.) |
| My cat is cute. | 我的猫是可爱。 (Wǒ de māo shì kě'ài.) | 我的猫很可爱。 (Wǒ de māo hěn kě'ài.) |
| He is busy. | 他是忙。 (Tā shì máng.) | 他很忙。 (Tā hěn máng.) |
The placement of 很 (hěn) is invariable: it always directly precedes the adjective it describes. For instance, 这个电脑很新 (Zhège diànnǎo hěn xīn) (This computer is new) places 很 (hěn) immediately before 新 (xīn) (new), adhering strictly to the Subject + 很 (hěn) + Adjective order. This rigid structure is one of the predictable aspects of Chinese grammar that simplifies sentence formation once understood.

Formation Pattern

1
Constructing a descriptive sentence with 很 (hěn) involves a simple, three-step process. Once you internalize this pattern, you will be able to form a vast array of basic descriptive statements with confidence.
2
Identify your Subject: This is the noun or pronoun you wish to describe. Examples include 我 (wǒ) (I/me), 你 (nǐ) (you), 他/她/它 (tā) (he/she/it), 我们 (wǒmen) (we/us), 这个 (zhège) (this one), 那个 (nàge) (that one), or specific nouns like 咖啡 (kāfēi) (coffee) or 学校 (xuéxiào) (school).
3
Insert 很 (hěn): Place 很 (hěn) immediately after your chosen subject. This step is crucial for establishing the neutral descriptive tone and completing the predicate structure.
4
Add your Adjective: Conclude the sentence with the adjective that describes your subject. Common A1 adjectives include 好 (hǎo) (good/well), 大 (dà) (big), 小 (xiǎo) (small), 忙 (máng) (busy), 累 (lèi) (tired), 贵 (guì) (expensive), 便宜 (piányi) (cheap), 高兴 (gāoxìng) (happy), 漂亮 (piàoliang) (beautiful).
5
Let's illustrate this process with an example:
6
| Step | Action | Example: 天气 (tiānqì) + 热 (rè) (The weather is hot) |
7
| :----------- | :------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------------ |
8
| 1. Subject | Choose the entity being described | 天气 (tiānqì) (weather) |
9
| 2. 很 (hěn) | Place the neutral degree adverb | 很 (hěn) |
10
| 3. Adjective | Select the descriptive word | 热 (rè) (hot) |
11
| Result | Combine these elements into a sentence | 天气很热。 (Tiānqì hěn rè.) |
12
Using this pattern, you can readily form sentences such as 她很高兴。 (Tā hěn gāoxìng.) (She is happy.), 这个手机很便宜。 (Zhège shǒujī hěn piányi.) (This phone is cheap.), or 我的老师很好。 (Wǒ de lǎoshī hěn hǎo.) (My teacher is good.). This simple sequence forms the backbone of countless descriptive expressions in Chinese.

When To Use It

很 (hěn) is indispensable for forming basic descriptive statements in Chinese, particularly when you aim for a neutral, factual tone. Its utility extends across several common communication scenarios:
  1. 1For Neutral Descriptions of State or Quality: This is the primary and most frequent use of 很 (hěn). Whenever you wish to describe a subject with an adjective without implying comparison or strong emphasis, 很 (hěn) is the correct choice. For example, 这本书很有趣。 (Zhè běn shū hěn yǒuqù.) (This book is interesting.) simply states a fact about the book's quality. Similarly, 他很聪明。 (Tā hěn cōngmíng.) means "He is smart," without suggesting he is smarter than others, but just stating his intelligence.
  1. 1As the Default for Adjective Predicates: Given that Chinese adjectives function as stative verbs, 很 (hěn) acts as the standard structural component to complete the predicate. It fulfills the grammatical expectation for an adverb before an adjective. Even if the English translation uses "is" without "very," the Chinese counterpart will almost always employ 很 (hěn). For instance, "My friend is busy" translates to 我的朋友很忙。 (Wǒ de péngyou hěn máng.).
  1. 1When Describing with Polysyllabic Adjectives: While 很 (hěn) is essential for monosyllabic adjectives to avoid comparative implications, it is also commonly used with polysyllabic adjectives (adjectives with two or more characters). Though sometimes optional for flow with certain polysyllabic adjectives, including 很 (hěn) is always grammatically safe and often preferred for naturalness at the A1 level. For example, 这个地方很漂亮。 (Zhège dìfang hěn piàoliang.) (This place is beautiful.) is a perfectly standard construction.
  1. 1To Convey Emphasis (with Vocal Stress): Although 很 (hěn) is typically neutral, it can be used to convey a stronger sense of "very" or "really" if it is vocally stressed during speech. This is achieved through intonation, making the 很 (hěn) word longer and more pronounced. For example, if you exclaim 这个 HĚN 贵！ (Zhège HĚN guì!), the emphasis on HĚN makes it clear you mean "This is really expensive!" This is a subtle yet effective way to add intensity to your descriptions without resorting to other intensifiers, especially in casual conversation.

Common Mistakes

Learners of Chinese frequently make several predictable errors when using 很 (hěn), primarily due to interference from their native language's grammatical structures. Recognizing and actively correcting these patterns will significantly improve your fluency and accuracy.
  1. 1The "是 (shì) Addiction": The most prevalent mistake is inserting 是 (shì) before an adjective, mimicking the English "to be" verb. Remember: 是 (shì) is never used directly before an adjective to form a descriptive predicate. 是 (shì) identifies nouns or noun phrases. Therefore, phrases like 我是忙。 (Wǒ shì máng.) or 他是高兴。 (Tā shì gāoxìng.) are grammatically incorrect. The correct forms are 我很忙。 (Wǒ hěn máng.) (I am busy) and 他很高兴。 (Tā hěn gāoxìng.) (He is happy).
  1. 1The "Lonely Adjective": Omitting 很 (hěn) in a neutral descriptive statement. While a bare adjective can function as a predicate, it typically carries an implicit comparative meaning or an emphatic tone. Saying 你漂亮。 (Nǐ piàoliang.) could imply "You are beautiful (compared to others)" or express surprise, rather than a neutral compliment. For a simple, neutral statement like "You are beautiful," always include 很 (hěn): 你很漂亮。 (Nǐ hěn piàoliang.).
  1. 1Overusing 很 (hěn) in Negations and Questions: While 很 (hěn) is standard for positive statements, its usage changes significantly in negative statements and yes/no questions.
  • Negation: To negate an adjective, you typically use 不 (bù) (not) directly before the adjective, and 很 (hěn) is usually omitted. For example, to say "I am not busy," you say 我不忙。 (Wǒ bù máng.). Saying 我不是很忙。 (Wǒ bù hěn máng.) means "I am not very busy," implying you are still somewhat busy. The 很 (hěn) in 不很 (bù hěn) then regains its intensifying meaning.
  • Questions: In standard yes/no questions formed with 吗 (ma), 很 (hěn) is commonly omitted. For instance, to ask "Are you well?" or "How are you?" the standard phrasing is 你好吗？ (Nǐ hǎo ma?), not 你很好吗？ (Nǐ hěn hǎo ma?). Including 很 (hěn) in a question like 你很好吗？ implies asking "Are you very well?" or expressing surprise that the person might be very well.
  1. 1Confusion with Stronger Intensifiers: While 很 (hěn) is a neutral marker, learners sometimes struggle to differentiate its function from truly intensifying adverbs like 太...了 (tài...le) (too, excessively). 这个很好。 (Zhège hěn hǎo.) means "This is good," whereas 这个太好了！ (Zhège tài hǎo le!) means "This is too good!" or "This is terrific!" 太...了 (tài...le) always implies an extreme or excessive degree, which is distinct from the neutral role of 很 (hěn).

Contrast With Similar Patterns

Understanding 很 (hěn) is often made clearer by contrasting it with other patterns that might seem similar but serve distinct grammatical functions. Recognizing these differences prevents common errors and refines your expressive capabilities.
  1. 1很 (hěn) vs. 是 (shì): This is the most crucial distinction for A1 learners. As established, 很 (hěn) precedes adjectives to form a neutral descriptive predicate, whereas 是 (shì) is used for identity, classification, or to link two nouns/noun phrases.
| Pattern | Function | Example (Chinese) | Example (English) |
| :--------------------- | :---------------------------------- | :------------------------------------ | :------------------------ |
| Subject + 很 + Adj. | Neutral description/state of being | 我很高兴。 (Wǒ hěn gāoxìng.) | I am happy. |
| Subject + 是 + Noun | Identification/classification | 他是一个学生。 (Tā shì yí ge xuésheng.) | He is a student. |
| Subject + 是 + Adj. | Incorrect for simple description | 我是忙。 (Wǒ shì máng.) | (Incorrect: I am busy.) |
Never use 是 (shì) directly before an adjective like 忙 (máng) or 累 (lèi) to describe a state. This is a fundamental structural difference between Chinese and many Indo-European languages.
  1. 1很 (hěn) vs. 不 (bù) (Negation): For simple negation of an adjective, 不 (bù) replaces 很 (hěn). You do not typically use both 不 (bù) and 很 (hěn) for a straightforward negative statement.
  • Positive: 今天很冷。 (Jīntiān hěn lěng.) (Today is cold.)
  • Negative: 今天不冷。 (Jīntiān bù lěng.) (Today is not cold.)
However, 不很 (bù hěn) exists, but it has a different, nuanced meaning: "not very." It implies a moderate degree, rather than a complete absence of the quality. For example: 他不是很帅。 (Tā bù hěn shuài.) (He is not very handsome, implying he is somewhat handsome, just not extremely so).
In contrast, 他不帅。 (Tā bù shuài.) means "He is not handsome (at all)." This distinction is important for precise expression.
  1. 1很 (hěn) vs. Other Intensifiers (非常 (fēicháng), 特别 (tèbié), 太...了 (tài...le)):
很 (hěn) occupies the lowest, neutral position on the spectrum of degree adverbs. Other adverbs convey stronger intensity.
  • 很 (hěn): Neutral, default. 这个饭很好吃。 (Zhège fàn hěn hǎochī.) (This food is delicious.)
  • 比较 (bǐjiào): Relatively, comparatively. 这个饭比较好吃。 (Zhège fàn bǐjiào hǎochī.) (This food is relatively delicious.)
  • 非常 (fēicháng): Very, extremely. A genuine intensifier. 这个饭非常好吃。 (Zhège fàn fēicháng hǎochī.) (This food is very delicious.)
  • 特别 (tèbié): Especially, particularly. 这个饭特别好吃。 (Zhège fàn tèbié hǎochī.) (This food is especially delicious.)
  • 太...了 (tài...le): Too, excessively. Conveys an extreme, often (but not always) negative, degree. 这个饭太好吃了！ (Zhège fàn tài hǎochī le!) (This food is too delicious! / So delicious!) Note the required 了 (le) particle at the end.
Choosing the correct degree adverb depends on the exact nuance of intensity you wish to convey. For neutral, factual statements, 很 (hěn) is the standard and safest option.

Real Conversations

Observe how 很 (hěn) functions in various common conversational contexts, reflecting its natural usage in modern Chinese communication. These examples illustrate its role in both casual and slightly more formal exchanges.

S

Scenario 1

Daily Greetings and Inquiries
A

A

你最近忙吗？ (Nǐ zuìjìn máng ma?) (Are you busy lately?)
B

B

我很忙，你呢？ (Wǒ hěn máng, nǐ ne?) (I am busy, how about you?)
A

A

我不太忙。 (Wǒ bù tài máng.) (I am not too busy.)

Observation*: Here, 我很忙 (Wǒ hěn máng) is a neutral, factual statement of one's current state. Notice 不太 (bù tài) as an alternative to 不很 (bù hěn) for

Adjectival Predicate Formation

Type Structure Example
Affirmative
Subject + 很 + Adj
{我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{忙|máng}
Negative
Subject + 不 + Adj
{我|wǒ}{不|bù}{忙|máng}
Question
Subject + 很 + Adj + 吗
{你|nǐ}{很|hěn}{忙|máng}{吗|ma}?
Emphasis
Subject + 非常 + Adj
{我|wǒ}{非|fēi}{常|cháng}{忙|máng}
Past/Completed
Subject + 很 + Adj + 了
{天|tiān}{很|hěn}{热|rè}{了|le}
Comparison
Subject + Adj + (比 + Object)
{他|tā}{高|gāo}

Meanings

The particle {很|hěn} acts as a required grammatical bridge in sentences where an adjective functions as the predicate. It does not literally mean 'very' in this context.

1

Predicative Bridge

Connecting a subject to an adjective.

“{她|tā}{很|hěn}{漂亮|piàoliang}”

“{这|zhè}{很|hěn}{贵|guì}”

Reference Table

Reference table for The 'is' word for descriptions (很 hěn)
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
S + 很 + Adj
{他|tā}{很|hěn}{高|gāo}
Negative
S + 不 + Adj
{他|tā}{不|bù}{高|gāo}
Question
S + 很 + Adj + 吗
{他|tā}{很|hěn}{高|gāo}{吗|ma}?
Short Answer (Yes)
很 + Adj
{很|hěn}{高|gāo}
Short Answer (No)
不 + Adj
{不|bù}{高|gāo}
Emphasis
S + 非常 + Adj
{他|tā}{非|fēi}{常|cháng}{高|gāo}
Contrast
S + Adj
{他|tā}{高|gāo}
Past State
S + 很 + Adj + 了
{他|tā}{很|hěn}{高|gāo}{了|le}

Formality Spectrum

Formal
{天|tiān}{气|qì}{很|hěn}{炎|yán}{热|rè}

{天|tiān}{气|qì}{很|hěn}{炎|yán}{热|rè} (Weather report/Casual talk)

Neutral
{天|tiān}{气|qì}{很|hěn}{热|rè}

{天|tiān}{气|qì}{很|hěn}{热|rè} (Weather report/Casual talk)

Informal
{天|tiān}{气|qì}{热|rè}{死|sǐ}{了|le}

{天|tiān}{气|qì}{热|rè}{死|sǐ}{了|le} (Weather report/Casual talk)

Slang
{天|tiān}{气|qì}{热|rè}{炸|zhà}{了|le}

{天|tiān}{气|qì}{热|rè}{炸|zhà}{了|le} (Weather report/Casual talk)

The Role of Hěn

很

Function

  • Bridge Connects S to Adj

Meaning

  • Neutral Not 'very'

Negative

  • 不 Replaces hěn
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Examples by Level

1

{我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{好|hǎo}

I am good.

2

{他|tā}{很|hěn}{忙|máng}

He is busy.

3

{这|zhè}{很|hěn}{贵|guì}

This is expensive.

4

{天气|tiānqì}{很|hěn}{冷|lěng}

The weather is cold.

1

{我|wǒ}{不|bù}{累|lèi}

I am not tired.

2

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{很|hěn}{好|hǎo}{吗|ma}?

Is this good?

3

{她|tā}{很|hěn}{聪明|cōngmíng}

She is smart.

4

{这|zhè}{不|bù}{难|nán}

This is not difficult.

1

{我|wǒ}{觉|jué}{得|de}{这|zhè}{很|hěn}{有|yǒu}{意|yì}{思|si}

I think this is interesting.

2

{他|tā}{并|bìng}{不|bù}{很|hěn}{高|gāo}

He is actually not very tall.

3

{这|zhè}{里|lǐ}{的|de}{菜|cài}{很|hěn}{好|hǎo}{吃|chī}

The food here is delicious.

4

{你|nǐ}{很|hěn}{忙|máng}{吗|ma}?

Are you busy?

1

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{方|fāng}{案|àn}{很|hěn}{完|wán}{善|shàn}

This plan is very complete.

2

{他|tā}{的|de}{态|tài}{度|dù}{很|hěn}{积|jī}{极|jí}

His attitude is very positive.

3

{这|zhè}{种|zhǒng}{情|qíng}{况|kuàng}{很|hěn}{常|cháng}{见|jiàn}

This situation is very common.

4

{这|zhè}{不|bù}{是|shì}{很|hěn}{明|míng}{智|zhì}

This is not very wise.

1

{这|zhè}{种|zhǒng}{说|shuō}{法|fǎ}{很|hěn}{有|yǒu}{争|zhēng}{议|yì}

This statement is quite controversial.

2

{他|tā}{的|de}{表|biǎo}{现|xiàn}{很|hěn}{出|chū}{色|sè}

His performance is outstanding.

3

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{问|wèn}{题|tí}{很|hěn}{复|fù}{杂|zá}

This issue is very complex.

4

{这|zhè}{并|bìng}{不|bù}{很|hěn}{合|hé}{理|lǐ}

This is not very reasonable.

1

{这|zhè}{种|zhǒng}{现|xiàn}{象|xiàng}{在|zài}{当|dāng}{今|jīn}{社|shè}{会|huì}{很|hěn}{普|pǔ}{遍|biàn}

This phenomenon is very common in modern society.

2

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{决|jué}{策|cè}{很|hěn}{具|jù}{有|yǒu}{前|qián}{瞻|zhān}{性|xìng}

This decision is very forward-looking.

3

{这|zhè}{不|bù}{很|hěn}{符|fú}{合|hé}{逻|luó}{辑|ji}

This is not very logical.

4

{他|tā}{的|de}{思|sī}{维|wéi}{很|hěn}{敏|mǐn}{捷|jié}

His thinking is very agile.

Easily Confused

The 'is' word for descriptions (很 hěn) vs {是|shì} vs {很|hěn}

Learners think {是|shì} is 'to be' and use it for everything.

The 'is' word for descriptions (很 hěn) vs {很|hěn} vs {非常|fēicháng}

Learners think {很|hěn} means 'very' and use it when they want to emphasize.

The 'is' word for descriptions (很 hěn) vs {不|bù} vs {没|méi}

Learners use {没|méi} to negate adjectives.

Common Mistakes

✗

{我|wǒ}{是|shì}{忙|máng}

✓

{我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{忙|máng}

Using {是|shì} with adjectives.
✗

{我|wǒ}{不|bù}{很|hěn}{忙|máng}

✓

{我|wǒ}{不|bù}{忙|máng}

Keeping {很|hěn} in negative sentences.
✗

{我|wǒ}{忙|máng}

✓

{我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{忙|máng}

Dropping {很|hěn} entirely.
✗

{我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{是|shì}{忙|máng}

✓

{我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{忙|máng}

Combining {很|hěn} and {是|shì}.
✗

{这|zhè}{很|hěn}{是|shì}{好|hǎo}

✓

{这|zhè}{很|hěn}{好|hǎo}

Redundant use of {是|shì}.
✗

{他|tā}{非|fēi}{常|cháng}{很|hěn}{高|gāo}

✓

{他|tā}{非|fēi}{常|cháng}{高|gāo}

Using {很|hěn} with other intensifiers.
✗

{我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{不|bù}{高|gāo}{兴|xìng}

✓

{我|wǒ}{不|bù}{高|gāo}{兴|xìng}

Incorrect negative structure.
✗

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{很|hěn}{是|shì}{复|fù}{杂|zá}

✓

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{很|hěn}{复|fù}{杂|zá}

Trying to force {是|shì} into complex sentences.
✗

{他|tā}{很|hěn}{没|méi}{有|yǒu}{钱|qián}

✓

{他|tā}{没|méi}{有|yǒu}{钱|qián}

Misusing {很|hěn} with non-adjectives.
✗

{这|zhè}{很|hěn}{像|xiàng}{我|wǒ}

✓

{这|zhè}{很|hěn}{像|xiàng}{我|wǒ}

Confusing {像|xiàng} (verb) with adjectives.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + ___ + Adjective

Subject + ___ + Adjective + 吗?

___ + 很 + Adjective

Subject + 不 + ___

Real World Usage

Texting constant

{我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{累|lèi}

Social Media very common

{这|zhè}{很|hěn}{美|měi}

Job Interview common

{我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{细|xì}{心|xīn}

Travel common

{这|zhè}{很|hěn}{远|yuǎn}

Food Delivery common

{这|zhè}{很|hěn}{辣|là}

Classroom very common

{这|zhè}{很|hěn}{难|nán}

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The 'Is' Trap

Whenever you want to say 'is' + adjective, stop! Use {很|hěn} instead.
⚠️

Don't use {是|shì}

Using {是|shì} with adjectives is the #1 mistake for beginners.
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Negative Rule

Remember to drop {很|hěn} when you use {不|bù}.
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Natural Sounding

Using {很|hěn} makes your Chinese sound much more natural and native.

Smart Tips

Always check if you are using an adjective. If yes, use {很|hěn}!

我忙 → 我很忙

Remember to remove {很|hěn} before adding {不|bù}.

我不很忙 → 我不忙

Don't just use {很|hěn}, use {非常|fēicháng} for 'very'.

我很很忙 → 我非常忙

If the word after is an adjective, {是|shì} is probably wrong.

他是累 → 他很累

Pronunciation

hén hǎo (instead of hěn hǎo)

Tone of {很|hěn}

It is a third tone, but when followed by another third tone, it changes to a second tone (sandhi).

Declarative

Subject + 很 + Adj ↘

Neutral statement of fact.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Hěn' as a 'Handshake' between the subject and the adjective.

Visual Association

Imagine a person (Subject) and a quality (Adjective) trying to hold hands, but they can't reach. The 'Hěn' is a bridge they stand on to hold hands.

Rhyme

When you describe, don't use 'shì', use 'hěn' to make it fit.

Story

Little Bear wanted to say he was happy. He tried to say 'I am happy' using 'shì', but the words fell apart. He added a bridge called 'Hěn', and suddenly the sentence stood strong. Now he tells everyone: 'I am happy' is '{我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{高|gāo}{兴|xìng}'!

Word Web

很不吗好忙累高冷

Challenge

Describe 5 things in your room using the [Subject + 很 + Adjective] pattern in 5 minutes.

Cultural Notes

Using {很|hěn} is standard in all regions, but in some southern dialects, it might be omitted more frequently in casual speech.

Taiwanese speakers often use '挺' (tǐng) or '很' (hěn) interchangeably for emphasis in casual settings.

Cantonese speakers learning Mandarin often carry over the omission of the copula from Cantonese, so they must be extra careful to include {很|hěn}.

Originally, {很|hěn} meant 'to be fierce' or 'to be very'. Over time, it became a filler word for adjectival predicates.

Conversation Starters

“

{你|nǐ}{很|hěn}{忙|máng}{吗|ma}?

“

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{很|hěn}{难|nán}{吗|ma}?

“

{你|nǐ}{觉|jué}{得|de}{这|zhè}{里|lǐ}{很|hěn}{漂|piào}{亮|liàng}{吗|ma}?

“

{你|nǐ}{的|de}{工|gōng}{作|zuò}{很|hěn}{累|lèi}{吗|ma}?

Journal Prompts

Describe your best friend in 3 sentences.
Describe the weather today and how you feel.
Compare your city to another city.
Describe your favorite food and why you like it.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

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Test Yourself

Fill in the blank.

{我|wǒ} ___ {忙|máng}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 很
Use {很|hěn} as the bridge.
Which sentence is correct? Multiple Choice

Choose the correct sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我很忙
The structure is S + 很 + Adj.
Fix the mistake. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

{他|tā}{是|shì}{高|gāo}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他很高
Don't use {是|shì} with adjectives.
Reorder the words. Sentence Building

{很|hěn} / {我|wǒ} / {好|hǎo}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我很好
S + 很 + Adj.
Choose the negative form. Multiple Choice

What is the negative of {我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{累|lèi}?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我不累
Replace {很|hěn} with {不|bù}.
Fill in the question particle.

{你|nǐ}{很|hěn}{忙|máng} ___?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 吗
{吗|ma} is for yes/no questions.
Transform to a question. Sentence Transformation

{他|tā}{很|hěn}{高|gāo}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他很高吗
Add {吗|ma} at the end.
Match the sentence to its meaning. Match Pairs

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

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 1. I am busy, 2. I am not busy
Basic translation.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the blank.

{我|wǒ} ___ {忙|máng}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 很
Use {很|hěn} as the bridge.
Which sentence is correct? Multiple Choice

Choose the correct sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我很忙
The structure is S + 很 + Adj.
Fix the mistake. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

{他|tā}{是|shì}{高|gāo}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他很高
Don't use {是|shì} with adjectives.
Reorder the words. Sentence Building

{很|hěn} / {我|wǒ} / {好|hǎo}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我很好
S + 很 + Adj.
Choose the negative form. Multiple Choice

What is the negative of {我|wǒ}{很|hěn}{累|lèi}?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我不累
Replace {很|hěn} with {不|bù}.
Fill in the question particle.

{你|nǐ}{很|hěn}{忙|máng} ___?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 吗
{吗|ma} is for yes/no questions.
Transform to a question. Sentence Transformation

{他|tā}{很|hěn}{高|gāo}.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他很高吗
Add {吗|ma} at the end.
Match the sentence to its meaning. Match Pairs

Match: 1. 我很忙 2. 我不忙

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 1. I am busy, 2. I am not busy
Basic translation.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

10 exercises
Translate to Chinese Translation

This is expensive.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 这个很贵。
Which sentence is a natural question? Multiple Choice

Asking if someone is busy:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 你忙吗？
Match English to Chinese Match Pairs

Match the pairs:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: I am tired = 我很累
Complete the negative sentence: 'I'm not hungry.' Fill in the Blank

我 ___ 饿。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 不
Say 'The weather is good.' Sentence Reorder

Arrange these:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 天气很好
Fix: 'They are very handsome.' Error Correction

他们是很帅。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他们很帅。
How do you say 'very popular' in modern slang? Multiple Choice

Choose the best fit:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 很火
Translate 'The cat is cute.' Translation

The cat is cute.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 猫很可爱。
Match the intensity Match Pairs

Intensity levels:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Neutral 'is' = 很
Complete: 'This movie is great.' Fill in the Blank

这个电影 ___ 好看。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 很

Score: /10

FAQ (8)

No. In adjectival sentences, it is just a grammatical bridge.

No, that is incorrect. Never use {是|shì} with adjectives.

It is required for rhythm and to avoid comparison.

Replace {很|hěn} with {不|bù}.

No, {很|hěn} is only for adjectives.

Yes, just add {吗|ma} at the end.

Use {非常|fēicháng} or {特别|tèbié}.

Yes, in very casual speech, but learners should use it to be safe.

Scaffolded Practice

1

1

2

2

3

3

4

4

Mastery Progress

Needs Practice

Improving

Strong

Mastered

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In Other Languages

Spanish low

Ser/Estar + Adjective

Chinese uses a particle {很|hěn} instead of a verb.

French low

Être + Adjective

Chinese avoids the copula for adjectives.

German low

Sein + Adjective

Chinese uses {很|hěn} as a structural bridge.

Japanese partial

Adjective + Desu

Chinese adjectives are invariant.

Arabic moderate

Nominal sentence (no verb)

Chinese requires the {很|hěn} particle.

Chinese high

Subject + 很 + Adjective

The core rule.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

Previous
Chinese Adjectives Don't Need 'is' (No 是)
Next
Simple Descriptions with {很|hěn}

Learn These First

A1 Requires

Chinese Adjectives Don't Need 'is' (No 是)

Overview In Chinese, directly describing a subject using an adjective often does not involve the verb `是 (shì)`. Unlike...

Continue With

A2 Requires

Comparing Things with Bǐ (比)

Overview The Chinese particle `比 (bǐ)` is fundamental for expressing comparisons of inequality. At the A2 CEFR level, m...
A2 Builds On

Chinese Comparisons: Saying 'Even More' (`更`)

Overview In Chinese grammar, expressing degrees of comparison is a fundamental skill. While an adjective like `{热|rè}`...
C1 Builds On

Formal Degree Modifiers: 极其, 至为, 颇为

Overview In Chinese, expressing degrees of intensity goes far beyond the common adverbs `很` (hěn) and `非常` (fēicháng...

Related Grammar Rules

A1

Having things and 'There is' ({有|yǒu})

Overview In Chinese, the character `{有|yǒu}` is a foundational verb with two primary functions: expressing **possession...
B1

Emphasizing Details with 是...的 (shì...de)

Overview The `是...的 (shì...de)` construction is a fundamental Chinese grammar pattern. It acts as a linguistic spotlig...
B2

Explaining the 'Why' (之所以...是因为...)

Overview At the B2 level, you have likely mastered the fundamental cause-and-effect pattern `因为...所以...` (yīnwèi......
B1

Explaining 'Why': Emphasizing Reasons (之所以...是因为...)

Overview The Chinese correlative conjunction pattern `之所以...是因为...` (zhīsuǒyǐ...shìyīnwèi...) serves a crucial fun...
C1

Formal Topic-Comment Structures: Guanyu, Zhiyu, and Lun (关于、至于、论)

Overview In English, we structure sentences around a subject performing an action: "**The team** will discuss **the bud...
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