#AvoidingExactAnswers

Avoiding Exact Answers with “左右(zuǒyòu)” and “大概(dàgài)”

, ,

Do you know the difference between “左右(zuǒyòu)” and “大概(dàgài)?” Give this test a try!
Tā kànqǐlái sānshísuì _____.
他 看起来     三十岁_____。
He looks about 30 years old.
Tā kànqǐlái _____ sānshísuì.
他 看起来   _____   三十岁。
He looks nearly 30 years old.
A. 左右(zuǒyòu); 大概(dàgài)

B. …

Answer to Avoiding Exact Answers with “左右(zuǒyòu)” and “大概(dàgài)”

, ,

Answer: A
“左右(zuǒyòu)” and “大概(dàgài)” both mean “about, nearly or approximately.” Approximate numbers are indicated by putting “左右(zuǒyòu)” or “大概(dàgài)” in front of or after a numeral, such as “六点左右(liùdiǎn zuǒyòu) at about 6 o’clock,” “十二个人左右(shíèrgèrén zuǒyòu) about 12 people,” “大概三个月(dàgài sāngèyuè) nearly 3 months” …

Scroll to Top