A2 Verb Aspects 15 min read Easy

Chinese Particle 着 (zhe): The 'Pause Button' for Actions

{着|zhe} acts like a pause button, freezing an action into a continuous state or describing the manner of a main verb.
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Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

The particle {着|zhe} acts like a pause button, showing that an action is currently ongoing or a state is being maintained.

  • Use {着|zhe} after a verb to show an ongoing action: {他|tā}{正|zhèng}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{书|shū} (He is reading a book).
  • Use {着|zhe} to describe a state: {门|mén}{开|kāi}{着|zhe} (The door is open/in an open state).
  • Use {着|zhe} to indicate background actions: {他|tā}{笑|xiào}{着|zhe}{说|shuō} (He said it while smiling).
Verb + 着 (zhe) + [Object]

Overview

The Chinese grammatical particle 着 (zhe) is a fundamental element for describing continuous states or durative actions. It functions as a linguistic "pause button," capturing an action or condition in its ongoing form. Unlike the English -ing suffix which often denotes an action in progress (e.g., "eating"), 着 (zhe) primarily emphasizes the resultant state of an action.

Consider the difference between actively "putting on a coat" and the passive "wearing a coat." 着 (zhe) addresses the latter: the state of having the coat on.

From a linguistic perspective, 着 (zhe) is an aspect marker, specifically denoting durative aspect. Aspect in grammar indicates the temporal flow or internal structure of an event, rather than its absolute time (tense). 着 (zhe) signifies that an event is ongoing or in a sustained state, without focusing on its beginning or end.

This differentiates it from other aspect markers like 了 (le) (completion) or 过 (guo) (experiential). Understanding 着 (zhe) is crucial for conveying vivid descriptions and nuanced meanings in Chinese.

Historically, 着 (zhe) evolved from an ancient verb meaning "to wear" or "to be attached to." This etymology helps explain its modern function: attaching itself to a verb to signify that the action's effect adheres or persists. This makes it invaluable for painting a picture of static scenes, sustained conditions, or the manner in which an action is performed.

How This Grammar Works

At its core, 着 (zhe) transforms an action verb into a description of a continuous state. When you attach 着 (zhe) to a verb, you are no longer describing the process of the action, but rather the result or continuation of that action. Think of 着 (zhe) as signifying that an action has been completed, and its outcome is still observable or in effect.
This is a critical distinction from verbs indicating an action in progress.
Consider the verb 开 (kāi), meaning "to open." If you say 开门 (kāi mén), it describes the action of opening a door. However, 门开着 (mén kāizhe) means "the door is open," indicating the door's current state after being opened. The focus shifts from the dynamic act to the static condition.
This semantic shift is fundamental to grasping the utility of 着 (zhe).
着 (zhe) serves two primary functions:
  • Describing a Continuous State: This is the most common usage. It indicates that a person or object is in a particular condition, often as the result of a prior action. This applies to body postures, clothing, the condition of inanimate objects, and even certain mental or emotional states. For example, 坐着 (zuòzhe) means "(be) sitting," not "(be) in the process of sitting down."
  • Describing the Manner of an Action: Here, 着 (zhe) is used with a verb that describes how another action is performed. The verb with 着 (zhe) acts as an adverbial modifier, providing background or circumstantial information for the main verb. For instance, 笑着说 (xiàozhe shuō) means "to say while smiling" or "to say smilingly," where smiling is the manner of speaking.
This aspectual function allows for a richer and more descriptive narrative. Instead of just stating actions, you can describe the environment, the posture of people, or the underlying conditions, making your Chinese sound more natural and nuanced. It's the linguistic tool for providing context and sustained reality to your sentences.

Formation Pattern

1
The grammatical structures involving 着 (zhe) are relatively straightforward, primarily revolving around placing 着 (zhe) directly after the verb it modifies. There are no conjugations based on person or number, which simplifies its application. Mastery lies in understanding which verbs and contexts are appropriate.
2
Basic Continuous State: Verb + 着 (zhe) (+ Object)
3
This pattern describes the ongoing state or condition that results from an action. The object, if present, follows 着 (zhe). This is the most common and fundamental structure.
4
| Structure | Example (Chinese) | Pinyin | Translation |
5
| :------------------------------ | :----------------------------- | :--------------------------- | :--------------------------------- |
6
| Subject + Verb + 着 (zhe) | 门开着。 | Mén kāizhe. | The door is open. |
7
| Subject + Verb + 着 (zhe) + Obj | 她穿着红裙子。 | Tā chuānzhe hóng qúnzi. | She is wearing a red dress. |
8
| Subject + Verb + 着 (zhe) | 他站着。 | Tā zhànzhe. | He is standing. |
9
Manner/Simultaneous Actions: Verb1 + 着 (zhe) + Verb2 (+ Object)
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In this construction, Verb1 + 着 (zhe) describes the manner or state accompanying the action of Verb2. Verb1 provides contextual information for Verb2. The object of Verb2 follows Verb2.
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| Structure | Example (Chinese) | Pinyin | Translation |
12
| :---------------------------------- | :-------------------------- | :---------------------------- | :----------------------------------------- |
13
| Subj + V1 + 着 (zhe) + V2 | 他笑着说。 | Tā xiàozhe shuō. | He said (it) smilingly / He said while smiling. |
14
| Subj + V1 + 着 (zhe) + V2 + Obj | 我坐着看书。 | Wǒ zuòzhe kànshū. | I read a book while sitting. |
15
| Subj + V1 + 着 (zhe) + V2 | 她躺着听音乐。 | Tā tángzhe tīng yīnyuè. | She listens to music while lying down. |
16
Existential Sentences: Location + Verb + 着 (zhe) + Object
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This pattern is used to describe the existence of objects in a particular location, emphasizing their state of being (e.g., lying, hanging, sitting) there. The object is typically indefinite.
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| Structure | Example (Chinese) | Pinyin | Translation |
19
| :------------------------------------ | :---------------------------------- | :------------------------------------ | :----------------------------------------- |
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| Location + Verb + 着 (zhe) + Object | 墙上挂着一张画。 | Qiáng shàng guàzhe yī zhāng huà. | On the wall hangs a painting. |
21
| Location + Verb + 着 (zhe) + Object | 桌子上放着几本书。 | Zhuōzi shàng fàngzhe jǐ běn shū. | On the table are a few books. |
22
| Location + Verb + 着 (zhe) + Object | 地上坐着一个小孩。 | Dì shàng zuòzhe yī gè xiǎohái. | On the floor sits a child. |
23
Negation with 着 (zhe) is typically done with 没 (méi) or 没有 (méiyǒu) before the verb, keeping 着 (zhe) after the verb. For example, 门没开着 (mén méi kāizhe) means "The door is not open."

When To Use It

Employ 着 (zhe) when your intent is to describe how something is or the conditions under which an action occurs, rather than focusing on the action itself as a dynamic event. It's about setting a scene, detailing an appearance, or specifying the concurrent circumstances of a primary action. Mastering these contexts will significantly enhance the descriptive power of your Chinese.
  • Describing Body Postures and Positions: This is one of the most natural applications. When you talk about someone 坐着 (zuòzhe) (sitting), 站着 (zhànzhe) (standing), or 躺着 (tángzhe) (lying down), you are describing their current physical orientation, not the act of assuming that posture. The action of sitting down or standing up is generally not expressed with 着 (zhe). For example, 她坐在沙发上 (tā zuòzhe shāfā shàng) – "She is sitting on the sofa." (State, not action of sitting down).
  • Describing Clothing, Accessories, and Adornments: To state that someone 穿着 (chuānzhe) (is wearing) clothes or 戴着 (dàizhe) (is wearing/carrying) accessories like glasses, hats, or watches, 着 (zhe) is essential. It indicates the state of having something on your body. The action of putting on these items does not use 着 (zhe). For instance, 他戴着一副眼镜 (tā dàizhe yī fù yǎnjìng) – "He is wearing a pair of glasses."
  • Describing the State of Objects or the Environment: For inanimate objects, 着 (zhe) describes their current status. Common examples include 开着 (kāizhe) (open, e.g., a door or window), 关着 (guānzhe) (closed), 亮着 (liàngzhe) (lit up/on, e.g., lights), or 放着 (fàngzhe) (placed/lying). 窗户开着，有点冷 (chuānghu kāizhe, yǒudiǎn lěng) – "The window is open, it's a bit cold." This usage provides background detail about the setting.
  • Describing the Manner in which an Action is Performed: When one action (V1 + 着 (zhe)) describes how another action (V2) is carried out, 着 (zhe) functions adverbially. The V1 is typically less significant than V2, providing context or a secondary, ongoing condition. For instance, 她哭着跑走了 (tā kūzhe pǎozǒu le) – "She cried as she ran away" or "She ran away crying." 哭 (kū) describes the manner of 跑走 (pǎozǒu).
  • Existential Sentences (Indicating Presence): In sentences that introduce an indefinite object at a specific location, 着 (zhe) highlights the continuous presence or state of that object. These are often structured as Location + Verb + 着 (zhe) + Noun Phrase. For example, 书架上摆着很多书 (shūjià shàng bǎizhe hěn duō shū) – "On the bookshelf are many books" (literally, "many books are arranged and existing there").
These applications demonstrate how 着 (zhe) provides crucial descriptive texture, allowing you to move beyond simple action sequences to construct more immersive and realistic portrayals of events and scenes.

Common Mistakes

Despite its apparent simplicity, 着 (zhe) is a frequent source of errors for learners due to its nuanced distinction from other aspect markers and its specific range of applicable verbs. Understanding these pitfalls is key to accurate usage.
  • Confusing 着 (zhe) with 正在 (zhèngzài) or 在 (zài): This is arguably the most common mistake. 正在 (zhèngzài) or 在 (zài) + Verb focuses on an action in progress (the dynamic process), while Verb + 着 (zhe) emphasizes the continuous state resulting from an action. Think of 正在 (zhèngzài) as a video recording of an action happening, and 着 (zhe) as a still photograph of the state after an action. You would say 我正在吃饭 (wǒ zhèngzài chīfàn) (I am eating) because eating is an active process. You would NOT say 我吃着饭 (wǒ chīzhe fàn) to mean "I am eating," as it implies a weird state, like "I am in the state of having eaten rice." (It can be used in 吃着饭的时候 (chīzhe fàn de shíhòu) – "while eating," but that's V1+zhe+V2 structure). Correcting the error: If you are describing an action actively unfolding, use 在 (zài) or 正在 (zhèngzài). If it's a sustained condition or the manner of another action, use 着 (zhe).
  • Using 着 (zhe) with Instantaneous or Punctual Verbs: 着 (zhe) signifies duration, so it cannot be used with verbs that describe momentary, non-durative actions. Verbs like 死 (sǐ) (to die), 爆炸 (bàozhà) (to explode), 到达 (dàodá) (to arrive), or 开始 (kāishǐ) (to begin) represent single-point events. You cannot say 他死着 (tā sǐzhe) or 飞机爆炸着 (fēijī bàozhàzhe). Correction: These verbs typically combine with 了 (le) to indicate completion, e.g., 他死了 (tā sǐ le) (He died).
  • Incorrect Use with Verbs of Sensation/Perception: Generally, 着 (zhe) is not used with verbs like 看 (kàn) (to see/spot) or 听 (tīng) (to hear) when referring to a sudden perception. You 看见 (kànjiàn) something, you don't 看着见 (kànzhe jiàn). However, there are important exceptions. When 看 (kàn) means "to watch/look at" (durative action) or 听 (tīng) means "to listen to" (durative action), 着 (zhe) is perfectly appropriate to express the ongoing nature of watching or listening. For instance, 他看着电视 (tā kànzhe diànshì) (He is watching TV) or 我听着音乐工作 (wǒ tīngzhe yīnyuè gōngzuò) (I work while listening to music). Distinction: If it's an intentional, ongoing act of perception, 着 (zhe) fits. If it's an involuntary, instantaneous perception, it does not.
  • Misplacing Negation: Learners sometimes put 着 (zhe) before 没 (méi). The correct structure for negation is 没 (méi) or 没有 (méiyǒu) + Verb + 着 (zhe). For example, 门没开着 (mén méi kāizhe) (The door isn't open) is correct, not 门开没着 (mén kāiméizhe).
  • Omitting the Object in Existential Sentences: In the Location + Verb + 着 (zhe) + Object pattern, the object is almost always present and usually indefinite. Saying 墙上挂着 (qiáng shàng guàzhe) (On the wall hangs) without specifying what hangs is incomplete and ungrammatical. You must specify 墙上挂着一幅画 (qiáng shàng guàzhe yī fú huà) (On the wall hangs a painting).
By consciously distinguishing 着 (zhe) from other aspect markers and being mindful of verb types, you can avoid these common pitfalls and use 着 (zhe) with greater precision.

Real Conversations

着 (zhe) is ubiquitous in everyday Chinese communication, from casual chats to more formal descriptions. It allows speakers to provide rich contextual detail and paint vivid pictures of ongoing situations. Pay attention to how native speakers use it to describe the world around them.

Here are some examples of 着 (zhe) in natural contexts:

- Describing a scene:

- 外面下着雨，你带伞了吗？ (Wàimiàn xiàzhe yǔ, nǐ dài sǎn le ma?)

"It's raining outside, did you bring an umbrella?" (Here, 下着雨 describes the ongoing state of rain).

- 咖啡馆里放着轻音乐，很舒服。 (Kāfēiguǎn lǐ fàngzhe qīng yīnyuè, hěn shūfu.)

"There's light music playing in the cafe, it's very comfortable." (放着 indicates the music is continuously being played).

- Giving instructions/descriptions:

- 你看那个穿着白色T恤，戴着墨镜的男人就是老板。 (Nǐ kàn nàge chuānzhe báisè T-xù, dàizhe mòjìng de nánrén jiùshì lǎobǎn.)

"Look, that man wearing a white T-shirt and sunglasses is the boss." (Both 穿着 and 戴着 describe continuous states of adornment).

- 你别躺着玩手机，对眼睛不好。 (Nǐ bié tángzhe wán shǒujī, duì yǎnjīng bù hǎo.)

"Don't play on your phone lying down, it's bad for your eyes." (躺着 specifies the manner of playing on the phone).

- In social media/messaging:

- (Text message) 我到门口了，等你开着门。 (Wǒ dào ménkǒu le, děng nǐ kāizhe mén.)

"I'm at the door, waiting for you with the door open." (开着门 describes the desired state of the door).

- (Social media caption for a photo of a pet) 我的猫睡着了，姿势好可爱！ (Wǒ de māo shuìzhe le, zīshì hǎo kě'ài!)

"My cat is sleeping, such a cute pose!" (睡着了 means "has fallen asleep and is still sleeping.")

- In more complex narratives:

- 他微笑着听完我的故事，没有说什么。 (Tā wēixiàozhe tīng wán wǒ de gùshì, méiyǒu shuō shénme.)

"He listened to my story with a faint smile, without saying anything." (微笑着 describes the continuous manner of his listening).

Notice how 着 (zhe) adds layers of detail, making descriptions more complete and conveying the ongoing nature of states or the background conditions of actions. It's a linguistic tool that allows for efficiency in expression, merging action and circumstance.

Quick FAQ

This section addresses common questions about 着 (zhe) to clarify its usage and prevent misunderstandings.
  • Q: Can 着 (zhe) be used with every verb?

No. 着 (zhe) is best suited for verbs that inherently denote a state or can result in a sustained state. This includes verbs like 坐 (zuò) (sit), 站 (zhàn) (stand), 躺 (táng) (lie), 穿 (chuān) (wear), 戴 (dài) (wear accessories), 挂 (guà) (hang), 放 (fàng) (place), 开 (kāi) (open), 关 (guān) (close), 拿 (ná) (hold/carry). It generally cannot be used with instantaneous verbs (e.g., 死 (sǐ) to die, 爆炸 (bàozhà) to explode) or verbs that describe active, dynamic processes where the action itself is the focus (e.g., 吃 (chī) to eat, 跑 (pǎo) to run), unless these verbs are used to describe the manner of a secondary action (e.g., 跑着去 (pǎozhe qù) - to go by running, i.e., runningly).

  • Q: How do I negate sentences with 着 (zhe)?

To negate a statement involving 着 (zhe), you place 没 (méi) or 没有 (méiyǒu) before the verb. The 着 (zhe) particle remains after the verb. For example:

  • Affirmative: 灯亮着。 (Dēng liàngzhe.) – "The light is on."
  • Negative: 灯没亮着。 (Dēng méi liàngzhe.) – "The light is not on."
  • Affirmative: 他穿着外套。 (Tā chuānzhe wàitào.) – "He is wearing a coat."
  • Negative: 他没穿着外套。 (Tā méi chuānzhe wàitào.) – "He is not wearing a coat."
  • Q: What is the difference between V + 着 (zhe) and 一边...一边... (yībiān...yībiān...) for simultaneous actions?

Both can describe simultaneous events, but their emphasis differs:

  • V1 + 着 (zhe) + V2: V1 describes the manner or background state for V2. V2 is the primary action. The V1 action is often more static or supportive. Example: 他坐着吃饭。 (Tā zuòzhe chīfàn.) – "He eats while sitting." (Sitting is the manner of eating).
  • 一边V1...一边V2... (yībiān V1... yībiān V2...): This construction implies two equally important actions happening concurrently. The emphasis is on the parallel nature of two distinct activities. Example: 他一边吃饭一边看电视。 (Tā yībiān chīfàn yībiān kàn diànshì.) – "He eats while watching TV." (Both eating and watching TV are equally significant actions).
The choice depends on whether one action is merely the circumstance of another, or if two actions are equally foregrounded.
  • Q: Is the character 着 always pronounced zhe?

No, 着 has multiple pronunciations and meanings. While its grammatical particle function is almost exclusively zhe (light, neutral tone), it can also be pronounced:

  • zháo (second tone) when it means "to touch," "to come into contact," "to fall asleep," or as a resultative complement indicating success (e.g., 找到 zhǎodào - to find successfully).
  • zhuó (second tone) when it's the verb "to wear" (formal), "to apply," or "to play (chess)." This zhuó pronunciation is closer to its ancient etymological roots.
It is crucial to distinguish these pronunciations and their corresponding meanings to avoid confusion. For the grammatical particle discussed here, it is always zhe.
  • Q: Does 着 (zhe) imply something will continue indefinitely?

Not necessarily. 着 (zhe) indicates that a state is currently ongoing or durative at the moment of speech or observation. It does not inherently carry a connotation of permanence or an indefinite future. The duration can be short or long, as long as it is continuous within the described timeframe. For example, 门开着 (mén kāizhe) means the door is open now; it doesn't guarantee it will remain open forever.

Formation of {着|zhe} Sentences

Form Structure Example
Affirmative
Subject + Verb + 着 + Object
{他|tā}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{书|shū}
Negative
Subject + 没(有) + Verb + 着 + Object
{他|tā}{没|méi}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{书|shū}
Question
Subject + Verb + 着 + Object + 吗?
{他|tā}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{书|shū}{吗|ma}?
Alternative Q
Subject + Verb + 着 + Object + 没(有)?
{他|tā}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{书|shū}{没|méi}{有|yǒu}?
State
Subject + Verb + 着
{门|mén}{开|kāi}{着|zhe}
Manner
Subject + Verb + 着 + Verb
{他|tā}{笑|xiào}{着|zhe}{说|shuō}

Common Contractions

Full Short
正在
正

Meanings

The particle {着|zhe} is used to indicate that an action is in progress or that a state is being maintained over a period of time.

1

Ongoing Action

An action currently happening.

“{我|wǒ}{听|tīng}{着|zhe}{音|yīn}{乐|yuè}。”

“{他|tā}{跑|pǎo}{着|zhe}{步|bù}。”

2

Continuous State

A state that persists.

“{墙|qiáng}{上|shàng}{挂|guà}{着|zhe}{一|yī}{幅|fú}{画|huà}。”

“{他|tā}{穿|chuān}{着|zhe}{红|hóng}{色|sè}{的|de}{衣|yī}{服|fu}。”

3

Manner of Action

Describes how an action is performed.

“{他|tā}{哭|kū}{着|zhe}{离|lí}{开|kāi}{了|le}。”

“{请|qǐng}{坐|zuò}{着|zhe}{说|shuō}。”

Reference Table

Reference table for Chinese Particle 着 (zhe): The 'Pause Button' for Actions
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
V + 着
{坐|zuò}{着|zhe}
Negative
没 + V + 着
{没|méi}{坐|zuò}{着|zhe}
Question
V + 着 + 吗
{坐|zuò}{着|zhe}{吗|ma}?
State
N + V + 着
{灯|dēng}{亮|liàng}{着|zhe}
Manner
V1 + 着 + V2
{跑|pǎo}{着|zhe}{去|qù}
Duration
V + 着 + Time
{等|děng}{着|zhe}{三|sān}{天|tiān}

Formality Spectrum

Formal
{他|tā}{正|zhèng}{在|zài}{阅|yuè}{读|dú}{着|zhe}{书|shū}。

{他|tā}{正|zhèng}{在|zài}{阅|yuè}{读|dú}{着|zhe}{书|shū}。 (Daily life)

Neutral
{他|tā}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{书|shū}。

{他|tā}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{书|shū}。 (Daily life)

Informal
{他|tā}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{书|shū}{呢|ne}。

{他|tā}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{书|shū}{呢|ne}。 (Daily life)

Slang
{他|tā}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{书|shū}{呢|ne}。

{他|tā}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{书|shū}{呢|ne}。 (Daily life)

The Three Uses of {着|zhe}

{着|zhe}

Action

  • {看|kàn}{着|zhe} Watching

State

  • {开|kāi}{着|zhe} Open

Manner

  • {笑|xiào}{着|zhe} Smiling
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Examples by Level

1

{我|wǒ}{站|zhàn}{着|zhe}。

I am standing.

2

{他|tā}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{我|wǒ}。

He is looking at me.

3

{门|mén}{开|kāi}{着|zhe}。

The door is open.

4

{灯|dēng}{亮|liàng}{着|zhe}。

The light is on.

1

{他|tā}{穿|chuān}{着|zhe}{蓝|lán}{色|sè}{的|de}{衣|yī}{服|fu}。

He is wearing blue clothes.

2

{墙|qiáng}{上|shàng}{贴|tiē}{着|zhe}{一|yī}{张|zhāng}{地|dì}{图|tú}。

A map is stuck on the wall.

3

{我|wǒ}{没|méi}{有|yǒu}{听|tīng}{着|zhe}{音|yīn}{乐|yuè}。

I am not listening to music.

4

{你|nǐ}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{这|zhè}{个|gè}{吗|ma}？

Are you looking at this?

1

{他|tā}{唱|chàng}{着|zhe}{歌|gē}{走|zǒu}{进|jìn}{了|le}{房|fáng}{间|jiān}。

He walked into the room singing.

2

{外|wài}{面|miàn}{下|xià}{着|zhe}{大|dà}{雨|yǔ}。

It is raining heavily outside.

3

{他|tā}{一|yī}{直|zhí}{忙|máng}{着|zhe}{工|gōng}{作|zuò}。

He has been busy working.

4

{书|shū}{放|fàng}{着|zhe}{在|zài}{桌|zhuō}{子|zi}{上|shàng}。

The book is placed on the table.

1

{他|tā}{躺|tǎng}{着|zhe}{看|kàn}{书|shū}。

He is reading while lying down.

2

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{问|wèn}{题|tí}{困|kùn}{扰|rǎo}{着|zhe}{我|wǒ}。

This problem has been bothering me.

3

{他|tā}{笑|xiào}{着|zhe}{对|duì}{我|wǒ}{说|shuō}。

He said to me with a smile.

4

{这|zhè}{家|jiā}{店|diàn}{开|kāi}{着|zhe}{很|hěn}{多|duō}{年|nián}{了|le}。

This shop has been open for many years.

1

{他|tā}{怀|huái}{着|zhe}{一|yī}{颗|kē}{感|gǎn}{恩|ēn}{的|de}{心|xīn}。

He carries a heart of gratitude.

2

{这|zhè}{种|zhǒng}{现|xiàn}{象|xiàng}{持|chí}{续|xù}{着|zhe}。

This phenomenon is continuing.

3

{他|tā}{带|dài}{着|zhe}{疑|yí}{问|wèn}{走|zǒu}{了|le}。

He left with questions.

4

{他|tā}{坚|jiān}{持|chí}{着|zhe}{自|zì}{己|jǐ}{的|de}{理|lǐ}{想|xiǎng}。

He is persisting in his ideals.

1

{他|tā}{正|zhèng}{处|chǔ}{于|yú}{发|fā}{展|zhǎn}{着|zhe}{的|de}{阶|jiē}{段|duàn}。

He is in a developing stage.

2

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{传|chuán}{统|tǒng}{流|liú}{传|chuán}{着|zhe}。

This tradition is being passed down.

3

{他|tā}{沉|chén}{浸|jìn}{着|zhe}{在|zài}{艺|yì}{术|shù}{中|zhōng}。

He is immersed in art.

4

{他|tā}{背|bēi}{着|zhe}{沉|chén}{重|zhòng}{的|de}{包|bāo}{袱|fu}。

He is carrying a heavy burden.

Easily Confused

Chinese Particle 着 (zhe): The 'Pause Button' for Actions vs {着|zhe} vs {正在|zhèngzài}

Both indicate ongoing action.

Chinese Particle 着 (zhe): The 'Pause Button' for Actions vs {着|zhe} vs {了|le}

Both are aspect markers.

Chinese Particle 着 (zhe): The 'Pause Button' for Actions vs {着|zhe} vs {过|guò}

Both modify verbs.

Common Mistakes

✗

{不|bù}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}

✓

{没|méi}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}

Use {没|méi} for negation.
✗

{吃|chī}{着|zhe}{饭|fàn}{了|le}

✓

{正|zhèng}{在|zài}{吃|chī}{饭|fàn}

Don't use {着|zhe} with completed actions.
✗

{他|tā}{着|zhe}{跑|pǎo}

✓

{他|tā}{跑|pǎo}{着|zhe}

Particle follows the verb.
✗

{我|wǒ}{着|zhe}{去|qù}

✓

{我|wǒ}{走|zǒu}{着|zhe}{去|qù}

Need a verb before {着|zhe}.
✗

{门|mén}{开|kāi}{了|le}{着|zhe}

✓

{门|mén}{开|kāi}{着|zhe}

Only one aspect marker.
✗

{他|tā}{没|méi}{有|yǒu}{穿|chuān}{着|zhe}{衣|yī}{服|fu}

✓

{他|tā}{没|méi}{穿|chuān}{着|zhe}{衣|yī}{服|fu}

Keep it simple.
✗

{我|wǒ}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{电|diàn}{影|yǐng}{了|le}

✓

{我|wǒ}{在|zài}{看|kàn}{电|diàn}{影|yǐng}

Avoid mixing aspects.
✗

{他|tā}{笑|xiào}{着|zhe}{说|shuō}{了|le}

✓

{他|tā}{笑|xiào}{着|zhe}{说|shuō}

The main verb shouldn't have {了|le}.
✗

{他|tā}{一|yī}{直|zhí}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{电|diàn}{视|shì}{了|le}

✓

{他|tā}{一|yī}{直|zhí}{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{电|diàn}{视|shì}

Continuous state.
✗

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{问|wèn}{题|tí}{困|kùn}{扰|rǎo}{着|zhe}{了|le}{我|wǒ}

✓

{这|zhè}{个|gè}{问|wèn}{题|tí}{困|kùn}{扰|rǎo}{着|zhe}{我|wǒ}

Redundant marker.
✗

{他|tā}{带|dài}{着|zhe}{了|le}{书|shū}

✓

{他|tā}{带|dài}{着|zhe}{书|shū}

Avoid redundant markers.
✗

{这|zhè}{种|zhǒng}{情|qíng}{况|kuàng}{持|chí}{续|xù}{着|zhe}{了|le}

✓

{这|zhè}{种|zhǒng}{情|qíng}{况|kuàng}{持|chí}{续|xù}{着|zhe}

State is ongoing.
✗

{他|tā}{沉|chén}{浸|jìn}{着|zhe}{在|zài}{了|le}{艺|yì}{术|shù}{中|zhōng}

✓

{他|tā}{沉|chén}{浸|jìn}{着|zhe}{在|zài}{艺|yì}{术|shù}{中|zhōng}

Grammar flow.
✗

{他|tā}{背|bēi}{着|zhe}{了|le}{包|bāo}{袱|fu}

✓

{他|tā}{背|bēi}{着|zhe}{包|bāo}{袱|fu}

State marker.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + ___ + 着 + Object

Subject + 没 + ___ + 着 + Object

Subject + ___ + 着 + Verb + Object

Subject + ___ + 着 + Object + 吗?

Real World Usage

Texting very common

{我|wǒ}{等|děng}{着|zhe}{你|nǐ}。

Social Media common

{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{这|zhè}{个|gè}{风|fēng}{景|jǐng}。

Job Interview common

{我|wǒ}{一|yī}{直|zhí}{做|zuò}{着|zhe}{这|zhè}{个|gè}{项|xiàng}{目|mù}。

Travel common

{地|dì}{图|tú}{放|fàng}{着|zhe}{在|zài}{这|zhè}{里|lǐ}。

Food Delivery occasional

{外|wài}{卖|mài}{放|fàng}{着|zhe}{在|zài}{门|mén}{口|kǒu}。

Classroom very common

{大|dà}{家|jiā}{听|tīng}{着|zhe}{老|lǎo}{师|shī}。

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💡

The 'Pause' Rule

If you can imagine a photo of the action, use {着|zhe}.
⚠️

No {不|bù}

Never use {不|bù} with {着|zhe}. Always use {没|méi}.
🎯

State vs Action

Use {着|zhe} for states (e.g., 'the door is open') and ongoing actions.
💬

Dialect Variation

Don't be surprised if you hear different particles in different regions.

Smart Tips

Use {着|zhe} to list items in a room.

桌子上有书。 → 桌子上放着书。

Use {着|zhe} for background actions.

他笑，他说话。 → 他笑着说话。

Use {着|zhe} for what they are wearing.

他穿蓝衣服。 → 他穿着蓝衣服。

Use {等着} for 'waiting'.

我等。 → 我等着。

Pronunciation

zhe (light, short)

Neutral Tone

{着|zhe} is almost always pronounced in the neutral tone.

Statement

V + 着 + O ↘

Neutral declarative tone.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of {着|zhe} as a 'glue' that sticks a verb to the present moment.

Visual Association

Imagine a person walking while holding a book; the book is 'stuck' to their hand, and the walking is 'stuck' in the present.

Rhyme

Action flows or state stays, add a {着|zhe} to show the ways.

Story

Xiao Wang is sitting ({坐|zuò}{着|zhe}) on a chair. He is reading ({看|kàn}{着|zhe}) a book. He is smiling ({笑|xiào}{着|zhe}) because the story is good. The door is open ({开|kāi}{着|zhe}) behind him.

Word Web

{看|kàn}{着|zhe}{听|tīng}{着|zhe}{坐|zuò}{着|zhe}{站|zhàn}{着|zhe}{穿|chuān}{着|zhe}{拿|ná}{着|zhe}

Challenge

Describe 3 things in your room using {着|zhe} right now.

Cultural Notes

Used extensively in daily speech to describe surroundings.

Similar usage, but sometimes {在|zài} is preferred for progressive.

Often use {紧|gan2} instead of {着|zhe} in their native dialect.

Originated from the verb {着|zháo} meaning 'to touch' or 'to attach'.

Conversation Starters

“

{你|nǐ}{桌|zhuō}{子|zi}{上|shàng}{放|fàng}{着|zhe}{什|shén}{么|me}？

“

{你|nǐ}{现|xiàn}{在|zài}{穿|chuān}{着|zhe}{什|shén}{么|me}{颜|yán}{色|sè}{的|de}{衣|yī}{服|fu}？

“

{你|nǐ}{的|de}{朋|péng}{友|yǒu}{在|zài}{做|zuò}{着|zhe}{什|shén}{么|me}？

“

{你|nǐ}{觉|jué}{得|de}{这|zhè}{个|gè}{城|chéng}{市|shì}{正|zhèng}{在|zài}{发|fā}{生|shēng}{着|zhe}{什|shén}{么|me}{变|biàn}{化|huà}？

Journal Prompts

Describe your room right now.
Describe what you are wearing and why.
Write about a time you were waiting for someone.
Reflect on a change in your life that is currently happening.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

Incorrect

Correct

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Test Yourself

Fill in the blank with {着|zhe}.

他看___书。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 着
Ongoing action.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他没看着书
Use {没|méi} for negation.
Correct the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

他吃着饭了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他吃着饭
No {了|le} with {着|zhe}.
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: 门开着
Subject + Verb + {着|zhe}.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

He is standing.

Answer starts with: 他站着...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他站着
Continuous state.
Complete the dialogue. Dialogue Completion

A: 你在做什么？ B: 我___音乐。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 听着
Ongoing action.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

他 / 笑着 / 说

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他笑着说
Manner of action.
Match the meaning. Match Pairs

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

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 1. Watching, 2. Smiling
Continuous meanings.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the blank with {着|zhe}.

他看___书。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 着
Ongoing action.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他没看着书
Use {没|méi} for negation.
Correct the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

他吃着饭了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他吃着饭
No {了|le} with {着|zhe}.
Reorder the words. Sentence Reorder

着 / 门 / 开

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 门开着
Subject + Verb + {着|zhe}.
Translate to Chinese. Translation

He is standing.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他站着
Continuous state.
Complete the dialogue. Dialogue Completion

A: 你在做什么？ B: 我___音乐。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 听着
Ongoing action.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

他 / 笑着 / 说

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他笑着说
Manner of action.
Match the meaning. Match Pairs

Match: 1. 看着, 2. 笑着

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 1. Watching, 2. Smiling
Continuous meanings.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

11 exercises
Complete the sentence: He likes to read while lying down. Fill in the Blank

{他|Tā} {喜|xǐ}{欢|huan} ___ {着|zhe} {看|kàn} {书|shū}。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {躺|tǎng}
Match the Chinese phrase to the English meaning. Match Pairs

Match the pairs:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: ["Sitting","Wearing","Holding","Watching\/Looking at"]
Arrange the words to say: 'There is a computer on the desk.' Sentence Reorder

{放|fàng} {着|zhe} / {桌|zhuō}{子|zi} {上|shàng} / {电|diàn}{脑|nǎo} / {一|yī} {台|tái}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {桌|zhuō}{子|zi} {上|shàng} {放|fàng} {着|zhe} {一|yī} {台|tái} {电|diàn}{脑|nǎo}
Which implies the person is CURRENTLY putting on the shoes? Multiple Choice

Select the progressive action:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {他|Tā} {在|zài} {穿|chuān} {鞋|xié}。
Fix the negative sentence. Error Correction

{门|Mén} {不|bù} {开|kāi} {着|zhe}。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {门|Mén} {没|méi} {开|kāi} {着|zhe}。
Translate: 'He is speaking with a smile.' Translation

He speaks smiling.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {他|Tā} {笑|xiào} {着|zhe} {说|shuō} {话|huà}。
Don't just stand there! = {别|Bié} ___ {着|zhe}！ Fill in the Blank

{别|Bié} ___ {着|zhe}！

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {站|zhàn}
Context: You see a picture on the wall. What do you say? Multiple Choice

Which sentence fits?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {墙|Qiáng} {上|shàng} {挂|guà} {着|zhe} {画|huà}。
Reorder: 'She is watching TV while eating apples.' Sentence Reorder

{吃|chī} {着|zhe} / {她|tā} / {电|diàn}{视|shì} / {苹|píng}{果|guǒ} / {看|kàn}

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Both are grammatically possible but mean slightly different things.
She came in crying. = {她|Tā} ___ {着|zhe} {进|jìn} {来|lái} {了|le}。 Fill in the Blank

{她|Tā} ___ {着|zhe} {进|jìn} {来|lái} {了|le}。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {哭|kū}
Select the sentence that means 'The AC is on'. Multiple Choice

Translate: The air conditioner is on.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: {空|Kōng}{调|tiáo} {开|kāi} {着|zhe}。

Score: /11

FAQ (8)

Most verbs work, but some stative verbs or resultative verbs don't fit well.

Yes, it is almost always pronounced as a light, neutral tone.

You can use {当时|dāngshí} (at that time) + Verb + {着|zhe}.

Because {着|zhe} is an aspect marker, and aspect negation in Chinese uses {没|méi}.

Yes, it is common in both formal and informal writing.

{正在|zhèngzài} is for the process, {着|zhe} is for the state.

Generally no, they represent different aspects.

It changes the *aspect* of the verb, not the core meaning.

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 high

estar + gerundio

Spanish conjugates the verb 'estar', while {着|zhe} is an invariant particle.

French moderate

être en train de

French structure is a prepositional phrase, Chinese is a suffix.

German partial

dabei sein zu

German uses a separate adverbial, Chinese uses a particle.

Japanese high

-te iru

Japanese conjugates 'iru', Chinese {着|zhe} does not.

Arabic moderate

qā'id + verb

Arabic marker is a separate word, Chinese is a suffix.

Chinese (Dialects) high

Various

The function is the same, but the character/sound varies.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

Next
The Ongoing State Particle 着 (zhe)

Continue With

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