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Expressing "for" with 给 ("gei3")

给 gěi

Preposition
HSK 3

Structure

Subj. + 给 + Recipient + [Verb Phrase]

Translations

  • for

Definition

给 (gěi) 作为介词时，表示引出动作的接受者或受益者，意为“为”、“替”或“向”。

As a preposition, 给 (gěi) introduces the recipient or beneficiary of an action, meaning 'for', 'on behalf of', or 'to'.

Usage

结构为：主语 + 给 + 接受者/受益者 + 动词短语。通常位于动词前，强调动作是为谁做的。

The structure is: Subject + 给 + Recipient/Beneficiary + Verb phrase. It is placed before the verb to indicate for whom the action is done.

Examples

  • 1 我给你买了一杯咖啡。(I bought a cup of coffee for you.)
  • 2 他给妈妈打电话。(He is calling his mother.)
  • 3 请给我倒杯水。(Please pour a glass of water for me.)
  • 4 老师给学生讲解问题。(The teacher explains the problem to the students.)
  • 5 她给朋友寄了一封信。(She sent a letter to her friend.)
  • 6 你给我帮个忙好吗？(Can you do me a favor?)

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