Meaning
要 is one of the most versatile and frequently used words in Mandarin. As a main verb, it means 'to want' or 'to need.' As an auxiliary verb, it expresses future intention ('will', 'going to') or obligation ('must', 'should'). It can also mean 'to ask for' or serve as an adjective meaning 'important.'
Usage
Native speakers use 要 constantly in daily conversation. When expressing wants, 要 is more direct than 想要. For future actions, 要 suggests stronger intention or immediacy than 会. In negative sentences, use 不要 (bù yào) for commands ('don't') but 不想 (bù xiǎng) for 'don't want to.' In questions about wants, 要不要 is very common.
Examples
- 01我要一杯咖啡。.I want a cup of coffee.
- 02明天要下雨。.It's going to rain tomorrow.
Common collocations
- 要是if
- 不要don't
- 要不how about; otherwise
- 主要main; primary
Antonyms
Origin
The character 要 originally depicted a woman (女) with hands at the waist, suggesting the concept of demanding or requiring something important.