应当
HSK 5- Modal verbs
Structure (结构 jiégòu)
Meaning (意思 yìsi)
应当 is an auxiliary verb meaning "should" or "ought to/must", commonly used in written language or formal contexts.
Explanation (解释 jiěshì)
Like 应该, 应当 (yīngdāng) also means "should" or "ought to." However, 应当 carries a more formal tone and is typically used in written language, regulations, or when giving advice in a serious context.
It emphasizes that an action is reasonable, correct, or an obligation that must be fulfilled. In everyday conversation, 应该 is far more common.
Examples (例句 lìjù)(5)
- 我们应当遵守法律。繁: 我們應當遵守法律。Wǒmen yīngdāng zūnshǒu fǎlǜ.
We should obey the law.
- 学生应当努力学习。繁: 學生應當努力學習。Xuéshēng yīngdāng nǔlì xuéxí.
Students should study diligently.
- 你不应当对他撒谎。繁: 你不應當對他撒謊。Nǐ bù yīngdāng duì tā sāhuǎng.
You should not lie to him.
- 这件事应当由你负责。繁: 這件事應當由你負責。Zhè jiàn shì yīngdāng yóu nǐ fùzé.
This matter should be your responsibility.
- 我们应当互相帮助。繁: 我們應當互相幫助。Wǒmen yīngdāng hùxiāng bāngzhù.
We should help each other.
Common mistakes
- Wrong:咱们晚上应当吃什么？Correct:咱们晚上应该吃什么？
应当 is too formal for everyday situations such as asking what to eat. In this case, 应该 is much more natural.
- Wrong:你没应当这么做。Correct:你不应当这么做。
To negate modal auxiliaries like 应当, use the adverb 不, not 没.