The Chinese particle 了 has been traditionally divided into two broad categories: aspectual particle 了 (AKA 了1) and modal particle 了 (AKA 了2). However, for a word with as many varied grammatical uses, such broad classifications don't seem particularly helpful to learners. This article offers an alternative way to understand 了: by listing out specific uses and patterns without regard for traditional classifications, starting with the ones learners will want to learn right away, and moving into more and more complicated uses.

Beginner (A1) Uses of 了

Grammar Point (English) Pattern Examples 了 Type Expressing "excessively" with "tai" 太 + Adj + 了 太 好 了 ! 了2

Elementary (A2) Uses of 了

Intermediate (B1) Uses of 了

Upper Intermediate (B2) Uses of 了

Grammar Point (English) Pattern Examples 了 Type Intensifying adjectives extreme with "ke" 可 + Adj (+ 了) 你 做 的 菜 可 好吃 了。 了2 Expressing "A bit too" Adj + 了一点(儿) 这个 东西 的 质量 是 差 了 一点 。 了2 Sentence-Final "le 1+2" ⋯⋯了 我 明白 你 为什么 走 了 。 了1, 2





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