Q: How are Chinese sentences arranged?

Chinese is an SVO language. That is, ( S )ubject ( V )erb ( O )bject. This is similar to English and most European languages. In English we would say: Adam eats an apple. In Chinese you would say: 小李 吃 苹果 (xiǎo lǐ chī píngguǒ).

Question 1

Is Chinese an SVO or SOV language?

Accepted Answer

The Chinese language follows an SVO pattern, meaning sentences are formed using the structure Subject + Verb + Object

Question 2

How are Chinese sentences arranged?

Accepted Answer

Chinese is an SVO language.

That is, (S)ubject (V)erb (O)bject. This is similar to English and most European languages.

In English we would say: Adam eats an apple.

In Chinese you would say: 小李吃苹果 (xiǎo lǐ chī píngguǒ).

Question 3

Is Chinese sentence structure hard?

Accepted Answer

Chinese sentence structure is generally straightforward, often following a subject-verb-object (SVO) order, which makes it easier to grasp initially.

However, mastering word order for time, place, and other elements can be challenging for learners.

Question 4

How difficult is Chinese grammar?

Accepted Answer

As for any language, Chinese grammar can be a bit confusing at first, but when you master the basics, you have a strong base of knowledge to build on.

The Chinese language is a very logical language, you’ll be surprise at how easy the grammar can be.

Question 5

How can I learn Chinese effectively?

Accepted Answer

To learn Chinese effectively you can start by learning about the characters and the pinyin, then master the tones as early as possible and learn some basic vocabulary and structures to start putting sentences together.

Most importantly, find good resources to rely on, if you can get yourself a private teacher or some Chinese classes, and finally never give up on your studies.

Question 6

How long does it take to learn Chinese?

Accepted Answer

The time required to learn and master Chinese will depend on a lot of various elements, such as consistency, motivation, quality or study resources, teachers etc.

To give you an idea, a student enrolling into a Semester Program at LTL is expected to reach level HSK 3 in 18 weeks of group class study (20h/week).

It is possible to get to a higher level if the student stays with a Chinese homestay or go out with Chinese friends, for example.

Chinese Grammar Bank

HSK 1