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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing to give an order with 下令 (xiàlìng)

    Actions & Events
    Obligation & Necessity

    Structure

    Subject + 下令 + Action/Clause

    Explanation

    下令 (xiàlìng) is a verb meaning 'to give an order,' 'to command,' or 'to decree.' It is typically used for authoritative commands issued by leaders, officials, or those in positions of power, and is common in news and formal contexts.

    Examples

    • 总统下令关闭了所有边境口岸。

      Zǒngtǒng xiàlìng guānbì le suǒyǒu biānjìng kǒu'àn.

      The president ordered all border crossings closed.

    • 市长下令立即展开调查。

      Shìzhǎng xiàlìng lìjí zhǎnkāi diàochá.

      The mayor ordered an investigation to begin immediately.

    • 校长下令禁止学生在教室里使用手机。

      xiàozhǎng xiàlìng jìnzhǐ xuéshēng zài jiàoshì lǐ shǐyòng shǒujī.

      The principal ordered that students be prohibited from using mobile phones in the classroom.

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    Expressing to give an order with 下令 (xiàlìng) | Chinese Grammar