B2 noun Formal 1 min read

每当

měi dāng /meɪ˧˩ tɑŋ˧˥/

Every time a specific situation arises, a corresponding action follows.

Word in 30 Seconds

  • Used to indicate whenever something happens.
  • Highlights a repeating or habitual action.
  • Often paired with '就' in the following clause.

Overview

  1. 1概述:每当(měidāng)是一个典型的条件性时间连词,意为“无论何时”或“每次”。它在句子中引导一个时间状语从句,暗示一种规律性的重复。2) 用法模式:通常结构为“每当……(的时候),就……”。前句说明条件或时间背景,后句说明由此引发的结果。3) 常见语境:常用于抒情、叙事或描述习惯。例如描述童年回忆、季节更替或某种固定的心理反应。4) 同义词辨析:“每当”比“每次”更具文学色彩,常用于书面语或正式表达中;“每次”则更口语化,侧重于次数的统计,而“每当”侧重于情境的触发。

Examples

1

每当夜幕降临,城市就亮起了灯。

everyday

Whenever night falls, the city lights up.

2

每当遇到困难,他总能保持冷静。

formal

Whenever he encounters difficulties, he always stays calm.

3

每当我想起这件事,就忍不住笑。

informal

Whenever I think of this, I can't help but laugh.

4

每当经济波动,物价往往随之变化。

academic

Whenever the economy fluctuates, prices often change accordingly.

Common Collocations

每当...的时候 Whenever [time/situation]
每当...就... Whenever... then...

Common Phrases

每当此时

At such a time

每当想起

Whenever I think of

Often Confused With

每当 vs 每次

Meici focuses on the count of occurrences, while Meidang focuses on the scenario or context.

Grammar Patterns

每当 + [事件/时间] + 就 + [结果] 每当 + [事件] + 的时候 + [结果]

How to Use It

Usage Notes

Meidang is primarily used in formal or literary contexts. It requires a main clause to follow to complete the thought. It is not suitable for simple counting tasks.


Common Mistakes

Learners often place 'meidang' at the end of a sentence. Some confuse it with 'meici' and use it in overly casual daily counting contexts. It is essential to include the consequence clause.

Tips

💡

Pair it with 'jiu'

Using 'jiu' in the main clause makes the sentence flow more naturally and emphasizes the consequence.

⚠️

Don't use as a noun

Remember that '每当' is a conjunction, not a noun. It cannot be used as a subject or object.

🌍

Literary usage

This word is frequently found in Chinese literature and essays to evoke nostalgia or reflection.

Word Origin

Derived from classical Chinese, where 'dang' refers to the appropriate time or place. 'Mei' adds the sense of totality.

Cultural Context

Used often in poems and prose to express deep reflection. It carries a sense of inevitability in human experience.

Memory Tip

Think of 'Mei' (every) + 'Dang' (time/occasion). It acts like a trigger button for a memory or event.

Frequently Asked Questions

4 questions

“每当”带有较强的书面语色彩,常用于描述情境;“每次”更口语化,更强调具体的次数。

不一定,但搭配使用“就”可以使句子结构更严谨,强调因果或触发关系。

不可以,“每当”必须位于从句的开头,引导时间条件状语。

可以,它既可以描述过去的习惯,也可以描述将来可能发生的规律性事件。

Test Yourself

fill blank

___看到这张照片,我就会想起我的童年。

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: 每当

每当引导时间条件,符合语境。

Score: /1

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