千万
HSK 4- Emphasis
Structure (结构 jiégòu)
Meaning (意思 yìsi)
The adverb 千万 is used to emphasize advice or warnings, meaning "must absolutely" or "whatever you do, don't."
Explanation (解释 jiěshì)
The adverb 千万 (qiānwàn) is used to emphatically urge, request, or warn someone in an earnest manner. It carries the meaning of "must definitely," "be sure to," or "absolutely must not."
千万 typically pairs with 要 (must) in affirmative sentences, and with 别, 不要, or 不能 (don't, must not) in negative sentences. It lends weight to the statement and conveys the speaker's sincere concern.
Examples (例句 lìjù)(5)
- 过马路千万要小心。繁: 過馬路千萬要小心。Guò mǎlù qiānwàn yào xiǎoxīn.
You must be very careful when crossing the street.
- 这件事千万别告诉他。繁: 這件事千萬別告訴他。Zhè jiàn shì qiānwàn bié gàosu tā.
You must not tell him about this matter under any circumstances.
- 你千万要记得带护照。繁: 你千萬要記得帶護照。Nǐ qiānwàn yào jìde dài hùzhào.
You must definitely remember to bring your passport.
- 明天开会，千万不能迟到。繁: 明天開會，千萬不能遲到。Míngtiān kāihuì, qiānwàn bù néng chídào.
Tomorrow's meeting, absolutely don't be late.
- 你千万要注意身体啊！繁: 你千萬要注意身體啊！Nǐ qiānwàn yào zhùyì shēntǐ a!
You must pay close attention to your health!
Common mistakes
- Wrong:你别告诉他千万。Correct:你千万别告诉他。
千万 is an adverb that must precede the verb or verb phrase it emphasizes; it cannot stand at the end of a sentence.
- Wrong:你千万小心。Correct:你千万要小心。
千万 typically appears with 要 or 别 to form a complete, stronger exhortation or warning.