noun HSK 4
Traditional 語法
yǔfǎ
grammar · syntax

Meaning

语法 refers to the rules and structure that govern how words combine to form correct sentences in a language. It encompasses syntax, morphology, and the systematic patterns that native speakers follow when constructing meaningful utterances.

Usage

This is the standard term used in educational contexts, textbooks, and linguistic discussions. Commonly appears with verbs like 学 (to study), 教 (to teach), 掌握 (to master), and 理解 (to understand). Native speakers often discuss grammar when learning foreign languages or teaching Chinese to non-native speakers.

Examples

  1. 01
    这个句子的语法有问题。
    Zhège jùzi de yǔfǎ yǒu wèntí.
    There's a grammar problem with this sentence.
  2. 02
    学中文的时候,语法和词汇都很重要。
    Xué Zhōngwén de shíhou, yǔfǎ cíhuì dōu hěn zhòngyào.
    When learning Chinese, both grammar and vocabulary are very important.

Characters

Measure words

  • zhǒng一种语法结构
  • tiáo一条语法规则

Common collocations

  • 语法规则
    yǔfǎ guīzé
    grammar rules
  • 语法错误
    yǔfǎ cuòwù
    grammatical error
  • 学习语法
    xuéxí yǔfǎ
    to study grammar
  • 语法
    yǔfǎ shū
    grammar book

Origin

Literally 'language method' or 'language law,' combining 语 (language) and 法 (method/rule). This compound reflects the systematic, rule-based nature of grammatical structure.

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