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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "rather than A, would rather B" with 与其 (yǔqí)

    HSK 5
    Comparison
    Wishes & Desires

    Structure

    与其 + A, 不如/宁可 + B

    Explanation

    与其 is used to compare two options and express a preference for one over the other, meaning "rather than A, it would be better to B." It appears in the first clause, and the preferred alternative is introduced by 不如 or 宁可 in the second clause. This pattern is common in both spoken and written Chinese.

    Examples

    • 与其在家发呆，不如出去走走。

      yǔqí zài jiā fādāi, bùrú chūqù zǒuzǒu.

      Rather than sitting at home in a daze, it's better to go out for a walk.

    • 与其花时间抱怨，不如想办法解决问题。

      yǔqí huā shíjiān bàoyuàn, bùrú xiǎng bànfǎ jiějué wèntí.

      Rather than spending time complaining, it's better to find a way to solve the problem.

    • 与其坐出租车堵在路上，不如坐地铁去。

      yǔqí zuò chūzūchē dǔ zài lù shàng, bùrú zuò dìtiě qù.

      Rather than sitting in a taxi stuck in traffic, it's better to take the subway.