Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing possession with 之 (zhī) as a noun modifier

    HSK 5
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    Modifier + 之 + Noun

    Explanation

    之 can function as a structural particle linking a modifier to a noun, similar to 的 in modern Chinese. It is predominantly found in idiomatic expressions, book titles, and formal or literary contexts. Understanding 之 helps learners recognize classical patterns that survive in modern usage.

    Examples

    • 百分之八十的学生都通过了考试。

      bǎifēn zhī bāshí de xuéshēng dōu tōngguò le kǎoshì.

      Eighty percent of the students passed the exam.

    • 三分之一的时间都花在了路上。

      sān fēn zhī yī de shíjiān dōu huā zài le lù shàng.

      One-third of the time was spent on the road.

    • 他是我们当中最努力之人。

      tā shì wǒmen dāngzhōng zuì nǔlì zhī rén.

      He is the most hardworking person among us.

    Often Confused With