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Sequencing with 先 ("xiān") and 再 ("zài")

先 xiān

Adverb
HSK 3

Structure

先 ⋯⋯ ，再 ⋯⋯ 先 + [Verb Phrase] + 再说

Translations

  • orders two actions, first one then the other

Definition

表示先后顺序的结构，用于描述两个动作或事件按时间先后发生。

A structure indicating sequence, used to describe two actions or events occurring in chronological order.

Usage

先（xian1）放在第一个动作前，再（zai4）放在第二个动作前，强调先做某事，然后做另一事。

Place 先 before the first action and 再 before the second action, emphasizing doing something first and then the other.

Examples

  • 1 你先吃饭，再看电视。 (Eat first, then watch TV.)
  • 2 我们先讨论问题，再做决定。 (We'll discuss the problem first, then make a decision.)
  • 3 他先去了北京，再去了上海。 (He went to Beijing first, then to Shanghai.)
  • 4 请先完成作业，再出去玩。 (Please finish your homework first, then go out to play.)
  • 5 我先复习，再考试。 (I'll review first, then take the exam.)
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