Resultative Complement: {好|hǎo} (Completed & Ready)
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use {好|hǎo} after a verb to show that an action is finished and the result is satisfactory or ready.
- Affirmative: Verb + {好|hǎo} (e.g., {写好|xiěhǎo} - finished writing).
- Negative: {没|méi} + Verb + {好|hǎo} (e.g., {没写好|méixiěhǎo} - not finished/not ready).
- Question: Verb + {好|hǎo} + {了|le} + {吗|ma}? (e.g., {写好了吗|xiěhǎolema}? - is it ready?).
Overview
In Chinese grammar, verbs frequently require an additional element to specify the result or outcome of an action. This is the function of resultative complements. Among these, 好 (hǎo) is fundamental and widely used, signifying not merely that an action has been completed, but that it has reached a satisfactory state and is now ready for its intended purpose or the next step.
This article comprehensively explores 好 (hǎo) as a resultative complement, guiding B1-level learners to master its application.
Consider the nuance between 我煮饭 (Wǒ zhǔ fàn) (I cooked rice), which only implies the act of cooking, and 我把饭煮好了 (Wǒ bǎ fàn zhǔ hǎo le) (I finished cooking the rice, and it's ready to eat). The latter explicitly conveys successful completion and a desirable state. 好 (hǎo) is essential for expressing this meaning, moving beyond simple factual completion to convey readiness, appropriateness, or a successful outcome.
At the B1 CEFR level, correctly applying 好 (hǎo) significantly enhances your ability to communicate effectively about completed tasks and their implications, enabling more natural and precise expression.
How This Grammar Works
好 (hǎo) functions as a resultative complement, its inherent meaning of "good" transforms into a specialized grammatical marker. It attaches directly after a verb, forming a tightly bound Verb-Resultative Complement (V-RC) structure. This combination conveys two critical pieces of information about the action, reflecting the outcome-oriented nature of Chinese grammar:- 1Completion: The action has been brought to its natural conclusion. It is no longer ongoing or partially done; it is definitively finished.
- 2Desired Outcome/Readiness: The completion has led to a positive, satisfactory state. The object of the action (or the actor) is now "ready," "prepared," "arranged," or "properly done" according to expectation. This implies a subjective or objective assessment of the result as being
好 (hǎo)– good, correct, or suitable for what comes next.
V) describes the action, and 好 (hǎo) describes the resulting state after V has occurred.写好 (xiě hǎo) means the writing is not just done, but it's well-written or finished and ready for submission. Similarly, 准备好 (zhǔnbèi hǎo) conveys that preparations are not merely complete, but everything is set and in order. Asking `你作业写好了吗？ inquires if your homework is completed and ready to be turned in, implying it meets a satisfactory standard. This evaluative layer provided by 好 (hǎo)` is a linguistic shortcut, communicating both action and the quality or readiness of its result in a single, concise unit.Formation Pattern
Verb + 好 (hǎo) structure is consistent, with minimal exceptions regarding word order. Its rigidity simplifies learning but demands precise application. The optional aspect particle 了 (le) often accompanies the affirmative form, further emphasizing the accomplishment of the entire V-RC unit.
了 (le) is frequently added at the end of the sentence to mark the accomplished aspect or a change of state.
好 (hǎo) | Object (Optional) | 了 (le) (Optional) |
我 (Wǒ) | 准备 (zhǔnbèi) | 好 (hǎo) | 午饭 (wǔfàn) | 了 (le) |
我把行李都收拾好了。 (Wǒ bǎ xíngli dōu shōushi hǎo le.) — I have packed all the luggage, and it's ready (to go). The action 收拾 (shōushi) (to tidy up/pack) is complete and the luggage is in a good, ready state.
他已经把工作做好了。 (Tā yǐjīng bǎ gōngzuò zuò hǎo le.) — He has already finished the work, and it's done well/ready. The work (做 (zuò) – to do/make) is completed to a satisfactory standard.
Verb + 好 (hǎo), you must use 没 (méi) or 没有 (méiyǒu). This is because 好 (hǎo) here denotes a completed state, and 没 (méi) negates actions that have not yet occurred or have not resulted in a certain state. 不 (bù) negates habitual actions, intentions, or capabilities, not the non-accomplishment of a specific past action's result.
没 (méi) / 没有 (méiyǒu) | Verb | 好 (hǎo) | Object (Optional) |
我 (Wǒ) | 没 (méi) | 想 (xiǎng) | 好 (hǎo) | |
饭还没做好。 (Fàn hái méi zuò hǎo.) — The meal isn't ready yet (hasn't been cooked to completion). The desired state of the meal is not yet achieved.
我还没准备好出门。 (Wǒ hái méi zhǔnbèi hǎo chūmén.) — I haven't gotten ready to go out yet. My state of preparedness is not yet satisfactory.
吗 (ma): Appended to the end of the affirmative statement.
好 (hǎo) | Object (Optional) | 了 (le) | 吗 (ma) |
你 (Nǐ) | 吃 (chī) | 好 (hǎo) | | 了 (le) | 吗 (ma) |
没 (méi) 有 (yǒu): This pattern directly asks if the action has or has not resulted in the 好 (hǎo) state.
好 (hǎo) | 没 (méi) 有 (yǒu) | Object (Optional) |
你 (Nǐ) | 谈 (tán) | 好 (hǎo) | 没 (méi) 有 (yǒu) | 合同 (hétóng) |
会议室你安排好了吗？ (Huìyìshì nǐ ānpái hǎo le ma?) — Have you arranged the meeting room (and is it ready)? The question seeks confirmation of both arrangement and readiness.
这件事情你考虑好没有？ (Zhè jiàn shìqing nǐ kǎolǜ hǎo méiyǒu?) — Have you considered this matter thoroughly (and made a decision)? This asks if the consideration led to a firm conclusion.
好 (hǎo) has an object, its placement is crucial. The object typically follows the Verb + 好 (hǎo) structure. However, if the object is definite or emphasized, the 把 (bǎ) construction is often preferred, placing the object before the verb.
我已经选好了电影票。 (Wǒ yǐjīng xuǎn hǎo le diànyǐngpiào.) — I have already chosen the movie tickets (and they are settled). (Object after V-RC)
我把电影票选好了。 (Wǒ bǎ diànyǐngpiào xuǎn hǎo le.) — I have chosen the movie tickets (and they are settled). (Object before V-RC using 把 (bǎ) construction) Both sentences convey the same meaning, but the 把 (bǎ) construction foregrounds the object.
When To Use It
好 (hǎo) is used in specific contexts to convey completion coupled with a positive, ready, or satisfactory outcome. Its usage extends beyond mere factual completion, implying a state of being set or appropriately done.好 (hǎo). It indicates that an action has been finished, and as a result, someone or something is now prepared for a subsequent action or event. This implies a transition to a new, ready state.你准备好了吗？ (Nǐ zhǔnbèi hǎo le ma?)- Context: Before leaving for an important meeting.
- Meaning: Are you prepared and ready (to go)? Your preparations are complete, and you are in the correct state to proceed.
行李都收拾好了，我们可以出发了。 (Xíngli dōu shōushi hǎo le, wǒmen kěyǐ chūfā le.)- Context: After packing for a trip.
- Meaning: The luggage is all packed and ready; we can depart now. The act of packing is complete, and the luggage is in a usable state.
我把报告打印好了，就等你签字了。 (Wǒ bǎ bàogào dǎyìn hǎo le, jiù děng nǐ qiānzì le.)- Context: A colleague informing their superior about a document.
- Meaning: I've printed the report (and it's ready for review); I'm just waiting for your signature. The report is physically ready for the next action.
好 (hǎo) emphasizes the quality or appropriateness of the completed action. It means the action was performed correctly, successfully, or to an acceptable standard, often implying that a problem has been resolved or an agreement reached. This usage evaluates the outcome positively.我们谈好了价格，明天就可以签合同。 (Wǒmen tán hǎo le jiàgé, míngtiān jiù kěyǐ qiān hétóng.)- Context: Negotiating a business deal.
- Meaning: We've successfully discussed and agreed upon the price; we can sign the contract tomorrow. The discussion has reached a mutually satisfactory conclusion.
这件衣服你改好了吗？ (Zhè jiàn yīfu nǐ gǎi hǎo le ma?)- Context: Asking a tailor about altered clothing.
- Meaning: Have you altered this piece of clothing (to fit well/correctly)? The alteration is expected to be done properly.
新家已经布置好了，周末请朋友来玩。 (Xīnjiā yǐjīng bùzhì hǎo le, zhōumò qǐng péngyǒu lái wán.)- Context: Moving into a new home and preparing for guests.
- Meaning: The new home has been arranged/decorated properly and is ready (for use/guests); I'll invite friends over this weekend. The arrangement is done to a good standard.
吃 (chī) (eat), 喝 (hē) (drink), 睡 (shuì) (sleep), or 玩 (wán) (play), 好 (hǎo) can express that the action has been completed to the actor's satisfaction, implying they have had enough or enjoyed it sufficiently. This is a common cultural expression of hospitality.你吃好了吗？ (Nǐ chī hǎo le ma?)- Context: A host checking if guests are finished with their meal and satisfied.
- Meaning: Have you finished eating (and are you full/satisfied)? (A very common polite inquiry in Chinese dining etiquette, signifying the host cares about your satiety.)
我睡好了，感觉精神多了。 (Wǒ shuì hǎo le, gǎnjué jīngshén duō le.)- Context: Waking up after sufficient rest.
- Meaning: I've slept enough/well, and I feel much more energetic. The sleep achieved its desired restorative effect.
孩子们玩好了，该回家了。 (Háizimen wán hǎo le, gāi huí jiā le.)- Context: Parents calling children after they've been playing.
- Meaning: The children have finished playing to their satisfaction; it's time to go home. They have had their fill of fun.
Common Mistakes
Verb + 好 (hǎo) involves understanding its precise semantic scope and avoiding common pitfalls. These errors often arise from overgeneralization, direct translation from English, or insufficient grasp of Chinese aspect markers. Recognizing these patterns from typical B1 learner errors is key to improving fluency.不 (bù) instead of 没 (méi)好 (hǎo), describe a completed state or result. To indicate that this state has not been achieved, Chinese consistently uses 没 (méi) or 没有 (méiyǒu). 不 (bù) negates habitual actions, intentions, or inherent qualities/capabilities, not the non-accomplishment of a specific past action's result. This distinction is fundamental to Chinese aspect.- ❌ Wrong:
我不要准备好。 (Wǒ bú yào zhǔnbèi hǎo.)(Incorrectly negates desire, not the state of being ready) - ✅ Right:
我还没准备好。 (Wǒ hái méi zhǔnbèi hǎo.)— I haven't prepared yet/am not ready yet. This correctly uses没 (méi)to indicate the state of readiness has not been reached. - ❌ Wrong:
我不做好。 (Wǒ bù zuò hǎo.)(Incorrectly negates a general intention, not the actual completion of work) - ✅ Right:
饭还没做好。 (Fàn hái méi zuò hǎo.)— The meal isn't ready/cooked yet.没 (méi)accurately negates the successful completion of cooking.
好 (hǎo)Verb + 好 (hǎo) construction is a compound unit. You cannot insert other words, particles, or even direct objects between the verb and 好 (hǎo). This contrasts with some other verb structures where elements like duration or frequency can interrupt a verb-object phrase. The verb and its resultative complement form a tight semantic bond.- ❌ Wrong:
我准备我的行李好。 (Wǒ zhǔnbèi wǒ de xíngli hǎo.)The object我的行李 (wǒ de xíngli)should not be placed between the verb and its complement. - ✅ Right:
我把我的行李准备好了。 (Wǒ bǎ wǒ de xíngli zhǔnbèi hǎo le.)— I have packed my luggage (and it's ready). The把 (bǎ)construction correctly places the object before the V-RC. - ❌ Wrong:
我做很好。 (Wǒ zuò hěn hǎo.)This common error confuses a V-RC with an evaluative complement, where an adjective follows得 (de). - ✅ Right:
我做好了。 (Wǒ zuò hǎo le.)— I have finished doing it (well/ready). This uses好 (hǎo)as a resultative complement. If you want to say "I do it very well," you would use我做得很好。 (Wǒ zuò de hěn hǎo.), which is a degree complement indicating the manner of action.
Verb + 好 (hǎo) with 好 (hǎo) + Adjective/Verb好 (hǎo) can also function as an adjective meaning "good" or an adverb meaning "very" when preceding other adjectives or verbs. Distinguishing its role as a resultative complement from these other uses is crucial for accurate comprehension and expression.好吃 (hǎo chī)(good to eat, delicious) vs.吃好 (chī hǎo)(finished eating to satisfaction).这道菜很好吃。 (Zhè dào cài hěn hǎo chī.)— This dish is delicious. (好 (hǎo)modifies吃 (chī)as an adjective).你吃好了我们就走吧。 (Nǐ chī hǎo le wǒmen jiù zǒu ba.)— If you're finished eating to satisfaction, let's go. (好 (hǎo)is a resultative complement of吃 (chī)).好看 (hǎo kàn)(good to look at, pretty/handsome) vs.看好 (kàn hǎo)(to consider promising, to be optimistic about).这部电影很好看。 (Zhè bù diànyǐng hěn hǎo kàn.)— This movie is good to watch. (好 (hǎo)modifies看 (kàn)).大家都看好这个项目。 (Dàjiā dōu kànhǎo zhège xiàngmù.)— Everyone is optimistic about this project. (好 (hǎo)as a resultative complement indicates a favorable assessment after viewing/considering).
好 (hǎo) for Simple Completion好 (hǎo) implies completion, it specifically carries the additional nuance of "readiness" or "satisfaction." If you simply want to state that an action is finished without this evaluative component, other resultative complements like 完 (wán) or simply 了 (le) as an aspect marker might be more appropriate. Overusing 好 (hǎo) can make your speech sound slightly unnatural, as it implies a positive assessment that might not always be intended or present. Always consider if the "good/ready" implication is genuinely present in your intended meaning.- If you just finished reading a book:
我看完这本书了。 (Wǒ kàn wán zhè běn shū le.)(I finished reading this book.) This is a neutral statement of completion.我看好这本书了。 (Wǒ kàn hǎo zhè běn shū le.)(I finished reading this book to a satisfactory degree.) This implies you absorbed its content, or that the book is now ready for some other purpose (e.g., lending it out). The nuance is significant.
Real Conversations
To truly grasp Verb + 好 (hǎo), observe its pervasive presence in authentic Chinese communication. It is not limited to formal contexts but thrives in casual chats, professional correspondence, and daily interactions, reflecting its utility in conveying practical outcomes with a sense of completion and readiness.
1. Daily Planning & Coordination
In everyday life, 好 (hǎo) is crucial for confirming readiness and ensuring smooth transitions. It facilitates efficient coordination among individuals.
- Text Message from a Friend:
你到车站了吗？我这边都弄好了，可以出发了。
Nǐ dào chēzhàn le ma? Wǒ zhèbiān dōu nòng hǎo le, kěyǐ chūfā le.
(Have you arrived at the station? Everything on my side is ready (done properly); I can depart now.) 弄好 (nòng hǎo) means "to get something done well/ready."
- During a Family Gathering:
妈，饺子都包好了，可以下锅了吗？
Mā, jiǎozi dōu bāo hǎo le, kěyǐ xiàguō le ma?
(Mom, all the dumplings are wrapped and ready (made properly); can we put them in the pot now?) 包好 (bāo hǎo) indicates the dumplings are correctly made and ready for cooking.
2. Professional & Academic Contexts
Whether for project updates, task assignments, or study plans, 好 (hǎo) indicates completed tasks that meet expectations and are prepared for the next stage. This signals professionalism and efficiency.
- Work Email (internal):
王经理，您要的报告我改好了，已发送到您的邮箱。
Wáng jīnglǐ, nín yào de bàogào wǒ gǎi hǎo le, yǐ fāsòng dào nín de yóuxiāng.
(Manager Wang, the report you needed, I have revised it properly (and it's ready); it has been sent to your inbox.) 改好 (gǎi hǎo) implies the revision was done thoroughly and is satisfactory.
- Student Discussion:
我们小组的任务分配好了吗？谁负责哪部分？
Wǒmen xiǎozǔ de rènwu fēnpèi hǎo le ma? Shuí fùzé nǎ bùfen?
(Have our group's tasks been assigned and settled (arranged properly)? Who is responsible for which part?) 分配好 (fēnpèi hǎo) means the tasks are not just assigned, but the allocation is complete and understood.
3. Social Arrangements & Agreements
Confirming plans, decisions, or agreements relies heavily on 好 (hǎo). It expresses that a consensus has been reached or a plan solidified, leading to a ready state.
- Making Weekend Plans:
电影票我已经买好了，晚上七点那场。
Diànyǐngpiào wǒ yǐjīng mǎi hǎo le, wǎnshang qī diǎn nà chǎng.
(I've bought the movie tickets (and they're settled/ready), for the 7 PM showing.) 买好 (mǎi hǎo) means the purchase is complete and the tickets are secured.
- After a Negotiation:
没问题，我们都商量好了，就按这个方案执行吧。
Méi wèntí, wǒmen dōu shāngliang hǎo le, jiù àn zhège fāng'àn zhíxíng ba.
(No problem, we've discussed and agreed upon (settled) everything; let's proceed with this plan.) 商量好 (shāngliang hǎo) indicates the discussion concluded with a firm, satisfactory agreement.
4. Everyday Actions & Satisfaction
Beyond readiness, 好 (hǎo) expresses contentment or a feeling of being sufficiently indulged, particularly with actions of personal experience.
- A Host to a Guest:
多吃点啊，吃好了再走。
Duō chī diǎn a, chī hǎo le zài zǒu.
(Eat more! Only leave after you've eaten your fill/are satisfied.) This is a polite invitation for the guest to continue enjoying their meal until they are content.
- After a Fun Outing:
今天玩得真好，我玩好了，回家睡觉。
Jīntiān wán de zhēn hǎo, wǒ wán hǎo le, huí jiā shuìjiào.
(Today was really fun; I've played enough/had my fill of fun, time to go home and sleep.) 玩好 (wán hǎo) means the speaker feels they have sufficiently enjoyed the activity.
These examples underscore how 好 (hǎo) seamlessly integrates into various communicative functions, marking actions as definitively concluded, prepared, or satisfactory in a way that mere verb completion often cannot convey, adding a layer of nuance vital for effective communication.
Quick FAQ
好 (hǎo) as a resultative complement often brings up specific questions, especially when contrasting it with similar-sounding or related grammatical concepts. Here are common queries addressed for B1 learners, providing clear distinctions.好 (hǎo) be used with every verb?No. 好 (hǎo) typically pairs with volitional verbs that describe actions which can be brought to a defined, satisfactory end state. These are often transitive verbs where the actor has control over the outcome. Verbs of perception (like 看见 (kànjiàn) – to see), verbs of existence, or non-volitional verbs are generally incompatible with 好 (hǎo) as a resultative complement. Think of verbs describing actions that produce a result that can be deemed "good" or "ready" such as: 做 (zuò) (do), 写 (xiě) (write), 准备 (zhǔnbèi) (prepare), 收拾 (shōushi) (tidy up), 谈 (tán) (discuss), 买 (mǎi) (buy), 安排 (ānpái) (arrange), 想 (xiǎng) (think/decide), 煮 (zhǔ) (cook), 改 (gǎi) (alter/correct).
Verb + 好 (hǎo) and Verb + 完 (wán)?This is a critical distinction for intermediate learners. Both imply completion, but their connotations differ significantly, reflecting a key aspect of how Chinese describes events.
Verb + 完 (wán) | Verb + 好 (hǎo) |我写完了。 (Wǒ xiě wán le.) (I finished writing.) | 我写好了。 (Wǒ xiě hǎo le.) (I finished writing, and it's good/ready.) |他吃完了饭。 (Tā chī wán le fàn.)— He finished eating the meal (just that, nothing about satisfaction; he simply stopped eating). This is a statement of factual completion.他吃好了饭。 (Tā chī hǎo le fàn.)— He finished eating the meal (and is satisfied/full). This implies the eating experience was satisfactory to him.
Verb + 好 (hǎo) relate to the Potential Complement V + 得 (de) + 好 (hǎo)?These are distinct structures, though both involve 好 (hǎo). Understanding their different grammatical roles is vital to avoid misuse.
Verb + 好 (hǎo)(Resultative Complement): Describes an actual, completed result that is satisfactory or ready. It indicates a achieved state.我做好了作业。 (Wǒ zuò hǎo le zuòyè.)— I finished my homework (and it's done well/ready to submit). This describes a completed action with a positive result.
V + 得 (de) + 好 (hǎo)(Degree Complement/Potential Complement): Describes the potential ability to perform an action well, or evaluates the degree to which an action was performed. It indicates how an action is done.我作业做得很好。 (Wǒ zuòyè zuò de hěn hǎo.)— I do my homework very well (describing the quality/degree of doing homework). Here,好 (hǎo)functions as an adjective in a degree complement, evaluating the manner of action. You cannot say我做得好作业 (Wǒ zuò de hǎo zuòyè)to mean "I do homework well"; this construction is incorrect.我做得好。 (Wǒ zuò de hǎo.)— I can do it well (potential, often in rhetorical questions) or I do it well (evaluation of actual performance). For example,你做得好不好？ (Nǐ zuò de hǎo bù hǎo?)(Can you do it well?).
好 (hǎo) ever stand alone or be used as an interjection?Yes, outside of its role as a resultative complement, 好 (hǎo) is a highly versatile word with several common uses:
- As an interjection:
好！ (Hǎo!)can mean "Okay!", "Good!", "Alright!", or "Done!" depending on context. It expresses agreement, confirmation, or satisfaction. 我帮你拿一下。 — 好！(Wǒ bāng nǐ ná yīxià. — Hǎo!) — Let me help you carry this. — Okay!- Repetition for emphasis:
好了好了 (Hǎo le hǎo le)often means "Enough!" or "That's enough!" when trying to stop an action or conversation, or to indicate a situation is resolved. 别说了，好了好了。 (Bié shuō le, hǎo le hǎo le.)— Stop talking, that's enough now (implying the matter is closed or the discussion should end). The repetition emphasizes the finality.
好 (hǎo) as a resultative complement is crucial for expressing nuanced meanings of completion and readiness in Chinese. By paying close attention to its formation, specific usage contexts, and careful distinctions from similar patterns, you can significantly elevate your communicative precision at the B1 level and beyond.Resultative {好|hǎo} Structure
| Type | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative
|
Verb + {好|hǎo}
|
{做好|zuòhǎo}
|
|
Negative
|
{没|méi} + Verb + {好|hǎo}
|
{没做好|méizuòhǎo}
|
|
Question
|
Verb + {好|hǎo} + {了|le} + {吗|ma}?
|
{做好|zuòhǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}?
|
|
Object Placement
|
Verb + {好|hǎo} + Object
|
{写好|xiěhǎo} {作业|zuòyè}
|
|
Ba-Structure
|
{把|bǎ} + Object + Verb + {好|hǎo}
|
{把|bǎ} {作业|zuòyè} {写|xiě} {好|hǎo}
|
|
Past/Perfective
|
Verb + {好|hǎo} + {了|le}
|
{写好|xiěhǎo} {了|le}
|
Meanings
The resultative complement {好|hǎo} indicates that an action has been completed successfully, resulting in a state of readiness or satisfaction.
Completion
The action is finished.
“{作业|zuòyè} {写|xiě} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。”
“{行李|xínglǐ} {收|shōu} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。”
Readiness
Something is prepared for use.
“{准备|zhǔnbèi} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。”
“{饭|fàn} {做|zuò} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative
|
V + {好|hǎo}
|
{买好|mǎihǎo}
|
|
Negative
|
{没|méi} + V + {好|hǎo}
|
{没买好|méimǎihǎo}
|
|
Question
|
V + {好|hǎo} + {吗|ma}?
|
{买好|mǎihǎo} {吗|ma}?
|
|
Past
|
V + {好|hǎo} + {了|le}
|
{买好|mǎihǎo} {了|le}
|
|
Object
|
V + {好|hǎo} + Obj
|
{买好|mǎihǎo} {票|piào}
|
|
Ba-Structure
|
{把|bǎ} + Obj + V + {好|hǎo}
|
{把|bǎ} {票|piào} {买|mǎi} {好|hǎo}
|
Formality Spectrum
{报告|bàogào} {已|yǐ} {撰写|zhuànxiě} {完毕|wánbì}。 (Work)
{报告|bàogào} {写好|xiěhǎo} {了|le}。 (Work)
{报告|bàogào} {写好|xiěhǎo} {啦|la}！ (Work)
{报告|bàogào} {搞定|gǎodìng} {了|le}！ (Work)
The {好|hǎo} Resultative Flow
Action
- {写|xiě} write
- {做|zuò} do
Result
- {写好|xiěhǎo} finished writing
- {做好|zuòhǎo} finished doing
Examples by Level
{我|wǒ} {写|xiě} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
I have finished writing.
{饭|fàn} {做|zuò} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
The food is ready.
{你|nǐ} {准备|zhǔnbèi} {好|hǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}？
Are you ready?
{我|wǒ} {没|méi} {做|zuò} {好|hǎo}。
I didn't finish it well.
{行李|xínglǐ} {收|shōu} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
The luggage is packed.
{票|piào} {买|mǎi} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
The tickets are bought.
{房间|fángjiān} {打扫|dǎsǎo} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
The room is cleaned.
{他|tā} {没|méi} {把|bǎ} {事|shì} {办|bàn} {好|hǎo}。
He didn't get the matter done.
{我们|wǒmen} {把|bǎ} {时间|shíjiān} {约|yuē} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
We have set the time.
{这|zhè} {份|fèn} {报告|bàogào} {我|wǒ} {写|xiě} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
I have finished writing this report.
{你|nǐ} {把|bǎ} {东西|dōngxi} {放|fàng} {好|hǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}？
Have you put the things away properly?
{我|wǒ} {没|méi} {把|bǎ} {菜|cài} {切|qiē} {好|hǎo}。
I haven't finished cutting the vegetables.
{为了|wèile} {考试|kǎoshì}，{我|wǒ} {把|bǎ} {资料|zīliào} {都|dōu} {整理|zhěnglǐ} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
I have organized all the materials for the exam.
{请|qǐng} {把|bǎ} {合同|hétóng} {签|qiān} {好|hǎo}。
Please sign the contract properly.
{他|tā} {没|méi} {把|bǎ} {工作|gōngzuò} {安排|ānpái} {好|hǎo}。
He didn't arrange the work well.
{我们|wǒmen} {已经|yǐjīng} {商量|shāngliáng} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
We have already reached an agreement.
{这|zhè} {项|xiàng} {任务|rènwù} {必须|bìxū} {在|zài} {周五|zhōuwǔ} {前|qián} {完成|wánchéng} {好|hǎo}。
This task must be completed by Friday.
{他|tā} {把|bǎ} {一切|yīqiè} {都|dōu} {部署|bùshǔ} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
He has deployed everything.
{如果|rúguǒ} {没|méi} {准备|zhǔnbèi} {好|hǎo}，{就|jiù} {不要|bùyào} {开始|kāishǐ}。
If you are not prepared, don't start.
{我们|wǒmen} {把|bǎ} {细节|xìjié} {都|dōu} {沟通|gōutōng} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
We have communicated all the details well.
{经过|jīngguò} {多次|duōcì} {修改|xiūgǎi}，{这|zhè} {篇|piān} {文章|wénzhāng} {终于|zhōngyú} {写|xiě} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
After many revisions, this article is finally written well.
{为了|wèile} {确保|quèbǎo} {万无一失|wànwúyīshī}，{我们|wǒmen} {把|bǎ} {预案|yùàn} {都|dōu} {制定|zhìdìng} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
To ensure no mistakes, we have formulated all contingency plans.
{他|tā} {没|méi} {把|bǎ} {心态|xīntài} {调整|tiáozhěng} {好|hǎo}。
He didn't adjust his mindset properly.
{这|zhè} {场|chǎng} {会议|huìyì} {的|de} {议程|yìchéng} {已经|yǐjīng} {安排|ānpái} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
The agenda for this meeting has been well-arranged.
Easily Confused
Both indicate completion, but {完|wán} is about the process ending, while {好|hǎo} is about the result being ready.
Learners mix up the complement with the adjective 'good'.
Learners use {不|bù} for past negation.
Common Mistakes
{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {写好|xiěhǎo}
{我|wǒ} {没|méi} {写好|xiěhǎo}
{写好|xiěhǎo} {作业|zuòyè} {了|le}
{把|bǎ} {作业|zuòyè} {写好|xiěhǎo} {了|le}
{我|wǒ} {好|hǎo} {写|xiě} {了|le}
{我|wǒ} {写好|xiěhǎo} {了|le}
{我|wǒ} {写|xiě} {好|hǎo} {不|bù}
{我|wǒ} {没|méi} {写好|xiěhǎo}
{我|wǒ} {准备|zhǔnbèi} {了|le} {好|hǎo}
{我|wǒ} {准备好|zhǔnbèihǎo} {了|le}
{饭|fàn} {做|zuò} {不|bù} {好|hǎo}
{饭|fàn} {没|méi} {做好|zuòhǎo}
{行李|xínglǐ} {收|shōu} {了|le} {好|hǎo}
{行李|xínglǐ} {收好|shōuhǎo} {了|le}
{我|wǒ} {把|bǎ} {报告|bàogào} {写|xiě} {完|wán} {好|hǎo}
{我|wǒ} {把|bǎ} {报告|bàogào} {写好|xiěhǎo}
{他|tā} {没|méi} {把|bǎ} {事|shì} {做|zuò} {好|hǎo} {了|le}
{他|tā} {没|méi} {把|bǎ} {事|shì} {做好|zuòhǎo}
{我|wǒ} {买|mǎi} {好|hǎo} {票|piào} {了|le}
{我|wǒ} {把|bǎ} {票|piào} {买好|mǎihǎo} {了|le}
{他|tā} {把|bǎ} {计划|jìhuà} {安排|ānpái} {好|hǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}？
{他|tā} {把|bǎ} {计划|jìhuà} {安排好|ānpáihǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}？
{我们|wǒmen} {没|méi} {把|bǎ} {细节|xìjié} {沟通|gōutōng} {好|hǎo} {了|le}
{我们|wǒmen} {没|méi} {把|bǎ} {细节|xìjié} {沟通好|gōutōnghǎo}
{任务|rènwù} {没|méi} {完成|wánchéng} {好|hǎo}
{任务|rènwù} {没|méi} {完成|wánchéng}
{他|tā} {把|bǎ} {心态|xīntài} {调整|tiáozhěng} {好|hǎo} {了|le}
{他|tā} {把|bǎ} {心态|xīntài} {调整好|tiáozhěnghǎo} {了|le}
Sentence Patterns
{我|wǒ} ___ {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
{把|bǎ} ___ {写|xiě} {好|hǎo}。
{你|nǐ} ___ {好|hǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}？
{他|tā} {没|méi} {把|bǎ} ___ {做|zuò} {好|hǎo}。
Real World Usage
{餐|cān} {做|zuò} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
{时间|shíjiān} {约|yuē} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
{报告|bàogào} {写|xiě} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
{票|piào} {买|mǎi} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
{房间|fángjiān} {打扫|dǎsǎo} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
{东西|dōngxi} {买|mǎi} {好|hǎo} {了|le}。
Focus on the Result
Negation Rule
Ba-Structure
Politeness
Smart Tips
Use the Verb + {好|hǎo} structure.
Always use {没|méi}.
Use the {把|bǎ} structure.
Distinguish between {完|wán} and {好|hǎo}.
Pronunciation
Tone of {好|hǎo}
It is a third tone, but when followed by another third tone, it changes to a second tone (tone sandhi).
Neutral tone
In some fast speech, {好|hǎo} can sound slightly neutral, but keep the third tone for clarity.
Question
{做|zuò} {好|hǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}↑?
Rising intonation for yes/no questions.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of {好|hǎo} as 'Good to Go'. If you add it to a verb, the action is 'Good to Go'.
Visual Association
Imagine a chef placing a finished, perfect dish on a counter and giving a thumbs up. That thumbs up is the {好|hǎo} complement.
Rhyme
Verb plus {好|hǎo}, the task is through, it's ready now for me and you.
Story
Xiao Wang was cooking. He finished chopping the vegetables ({切好|qiēhǎo}). He finished cooking the rice ({煮好|zhǔhǎo}). Finally, he served the meal ({做好|zuòhǎo}). Everything was ready for his guests.
Word Web
Challenge
For the next 5 minutes, look around your room and say 5 things you have 'finished' using the {好|hǎo} structure (e.g., {书|shū} {放|fàng} {好|hǎo} {了|le}).
Cultural Notes
Very common in daily life. Used to show efficiency and reliability.
Similar usage, often used with {啦|la} for a softer tone.
Often used in code-switching, but the structure remains the same.
The use of {好|hǎo} as a resultative complement evolved from its meaning as an adjective 'good'.
Conversation Starters
{你|nǐ} {准备|zhǔnbèi} {好|hǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}？
{你|nǐ} {把|bǎ} {作业|zuòyè} {写|xiě} {好|hǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}？
{这|zhè} {个|gè} {项目|xiàngmù} {你|nǐ} {安排|ānpái} {好|hǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}？
{你|nǐ} {觉得|juéde} {我们|wǒmen} {把|bǎ} {细节|xìjié} {沟通|gōutōng} {好|hǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}？
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
{我|wǒ} {写} ___ {了|le}。
{我|wǒ} ___ {做|zuò} {好|hǎo}。
Find and fix the mistake:
{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {写好|xiěhǎo}。
Arrange the words in the correct order:
All words placed
Click words above to build the sentence
I have finished packing.
Answer starts with: {我|...
Which sentence implies readiness?
{你|nǐ} {把|bǎ} {票|piào} ___ {好|hǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}？
Find and fix the mistake:
{我|wǒ} {准备|zhǔnbèi} {了|le} {好|hǎo}。
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercises{我|wǒ} {写} ___ {了|le}。
{我|wǒ} ___ {做|zuò} {好|hǎo}。
Find and fix the mistake:
{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {写好|xiěhǎo}。
{了|le} / {好|hǎo} / {做|zuò} / {饭|fàn}
I have finished packing.
Which sentence implies readiness?
{你|nǐ} {把|bǎ} {票|piào} ___ {好|hǎo} {了|le} {吗|ma}？
Find and fix the mistake:
{我|wǒ} {准备|zhǔnbèi} {了|le} {好|hǎo}。
Score: /8
Practice Bank
11 exercises{行李|Xíngli} {收|shōu} ___ {了|le}。
{你|Nǐ} {坐|zuò} ___ {了|le} {吗|ma}?
Match correctly:
{我|Wǒ} / {好|hǎo} / {机票|jīpiào} / {没|méi} / {买|mǎi}
What does he say?
{我|Wǒ} {看|kàn} {好|hǎo} {那|nà} {本|běn} {书|shū}。
Is the food ready?
{把|Bǎ} {房间|fángjiān} {打扫|dǎsǎo} ___!
Context: Business meeting.
{车|Chē} / {停|tíng} / {好|hǎo} / {了|le} / {吗|ma}
{拿|Ná} ___ {你|nǐ} {的|de} {东西|dōngxi}。
Score: /11
FAQ (8)
No, it works best with verbs of creation, preparation, or arrangement.
Because resultative complements refer to completed actions, and {没|méi} is the negation for perfective aspect.
It is often used to indicate the state has been achieved, but it depends on the context.
{写完|xiěwán} means you finished the act of writing. {写好|xiěhǎo} means you finished writing and the result is good/ready.
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable in professional communication.
You can say {我|wǒ} {没|méi} {做|zuò} {好|hǎo}.
It adds a resultative meaning to the verb.
Yes, e.g., {我|wǒ} {明天|míngtiān} {会|huì} {把|bǎ} {事|shì} {做|zuò} {好|hǎo} (I will get it done tomorrow).
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
Estar listo
Chinese incorporates the action verb directly into the state.
Être prêt
Chinese is more verb-centric.
Fertig sein
German uses an adjective, Chinese uses a verbal complement.
～てしまう
Japanese focuses on the completion of the action, Chinese on the result.
جاهز (Jahiz)
Chinese structure is verbal, Arabic is nominal/adjectival.
Resultative {好|hǎo}
None.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
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