Meaning
很好 is one of the most fundamental phrases in Mandarin, combining the adverb 很 (very) with the adjective 好 (good). It expresses approval, satisfaction, or that something meets expectations. This phrase is extremely common in everyday conversation and is typically one of the first expressions beginners learn.
Usage
Native speakers use 很好 as a polite, neutral response to questions about how things are going, or to evaluate quality. It can range from genuine enthusiasm to a polite, measured approval depending on tone and context. Often used in responses like 很好，谢谢 when someone asks how you are. In formal settings, it remains appropriate, though speakers might elaborate further.
Examples
- 01你的中文说得很好。.You speak Chinese very well.
- 02今天天气很好，我们去公园吧。, .The weather is very nice today, let's go to the park.
Characters
Common collocations
- 很好吃very delicious
- 很好看very good-looking, attractive
- 很好玩very fun
Antonyms
Origin
很 originally meant 'disobedient' in Classical Chinese but evolved to function as an intensifying adverb. 好 has meant 'good' since ancient times, depicting a woman and child together, symbolizing something favorable.