When learning Chinese, understanding the various ways to express companionship and relationships can significantly enhance your conversational skills. One of the key words you will come across is “跟” (gēn), which translates to “with” in English. This small but powerful word is incredibly versatile and essential for expressing companionship, actions done together, and relationships in Chinese. In this article, we will delve into the different uses of “跟“, providing examples and explanations to help you master its usage in everyday conversation.
Basic Usage of 跟
跟 is a preposition that primarily means “with” and is used to indicate companionship, cooperation, or involvement with someone or something. It can be used in various contexts, from casual conversations to more formal settings. Here are some of the fundamental ways to use “跟“:
1. Expressing Companionship
When you want to say that you are with someone, the word “跟” is your go-to. Here are some examples:
– 我跟朋友一起去看电影。
(Wǒ gēn péngyǒu yīqǐ qù kàn diànyǐng.)
I am going to watch a movie with my friend.
– 他跟他的家人住在一起。
(Tā gēn tā de jiārén zhù zài yīqǐ.)
He lives with his family.
In these sentences, “跟” is used to indicate that the subject is performing the action in the company of another person.
2. Indicating Actions Done Together
“跟” can also be used to show that an action is being done together with someone else. For example:
– 我跟我的同事一起工作。
(Wǒ gēn wǒ de tóngshì yīqǐ gōngzuò.)
I work together with my colleague.
– 她跟我一起学习中文。
(Tā gēn wǒ yīqǐ xuéxí zhōngwén.)
She studies Chinese with me.
Here, “跟” emphasizes that the action (working, studying) is being carried out in collaboration with someone else.
3. Describing Relationships
“跟” is also commonly used to describe relationships between people. For example:
– 他跟他的女朋友关系很好。
(Tā gēn tā de nǚpéngyǒu guānxì hěn hǎo.)
He has a good relationship with his girlfriend.
– 你跟你的父母关系怎么样？
(Nǐ gēn nǐ de fùmǔ guānxì zěnme yàng?)
How is your relationship with your parents?
In these cases, “跟” is used to describe the nature of the relationship between two parties.
Advanced Uses of 跟
While the basic uses of “跟” are relatively straightforward, there are some more advanced applications that can add nuance to your Chinese. Let’s explore some of these.
1. Expressing Comparison
“跟” can be used to make comparisons between two entities. Here are some examples:
– 这个房间跟那个房间一样大。
(Zhège fángjiān gēn nàgè fángjiān yīyàng dà.)
This room is as big as that room.
– 你的中文跟我的一样好。
(Nǐ de zhōngwén gēn wǒ de yīyàng hǎo.)
Your Chinese is as good as mine.
In these sentences, “跟” is used to set up the comparison, indicating that two things are being compared in terms of size, quality, or other attributes.
2. Expressing Opposition or Disagreement
“跟” can also be used to express opposition or disagreement. For instance:
– 我跟他的看法不一样。
(Wǒ gēn tā de kànfǎ bù yīyàng.)
My opinion is different from his.
– 他跟老板吵架了。
(Tā gēn lǎobǎn chǎojià le.)
He had an argument with the boss.
In these examples, “跟” indicates a contrast or conflict between two parties.
3. Expressing Sequential Actions
In some contexts, “跟” can be used to indicate that one action follows another. For example:
– 他先吃饭，跟着去工作。
(Tā xiān chīfàn, gēnzhe qù gōngzuò.)
He eats first, and then goes to work.
– 我们先讨论计划，跟着开始工作。
(Wǒmen xiān tǎolùn jìhuà, gēnzhe kāishǐ gōngzuò.)
We discuss the plan first, and then start working.
Here, “跟” is used to link two actions, showing that one follows the other in sequence.
Common Phrases and Idioms with 跟
To further enhance your understanding of “跟“, let’s look at some common phrases and idioms that frequently use this word.
1. 跟着感觉走
This phrase means “follow your feelings” and is often used to encourage someone to trust their instincts.
– 你应该跟着感觉走。
(Nǐ yīnggāi gēnzhe gǎnjué zǒu.)
You should follow your feelings.
2. 跟不上
This phrase means “can’t keep up” and is used to describe situations where someone is unable to match the pace or level of others.
– 我跑得太慢了，跟不上他们。
(Wǒ pǎo de tài màn le, gēnbushàng tāmen.)
I run too slowly; I can’t keep up with them.
3. 跟风
Literally translating to “follow the wind,” this idiom means to follow the trend or do what everyone else is doing.
– 不要总是跟风，要有自己的想法。
(Bùyào zǒngshì gēnfēng, yào yǒu zìjǐ de xiǎngfǎ.)
Don’t always follow the trend; have your own ideas.
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of “跟“, let’s go through some practice exercises. Try to fill in the blanks with the correct use of “跟“.
1. 我______我的朋友去逛街。
(I go shopping with my friend.)
2. 你______他吵架了吗？
(Did you argue with him?)
3. 她______她的妹妹一样聪明。
(She is as smart as her sister.)
4. 我们______他一起完成了这个项目。
(We completed this project together with him.)
5. 他总是______着别人的意见走。
(He always follows others’ opinions.)
Answers:
1. 跟
2. 跟
3. 跟
4. 跟
5. 跟
Conclusion
The word “跟” is an indispensable part of Chinese grammar, offering a versatile way to express companionship, cooperation, comparison, and even opposition. By mastering its various uses, you will be able to communicate more effectively and naturally in Chinese. Remember to practice using “跟” in different contexts, and don’t hesitate to incorporate it into your daily conversations. Happy learning!
