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    Chinese Grammar

    Using 宁可 (nìngkě) for determined sacrifice in compound clauses

    HSK 4
    Emphasis
    Wishes & Desires

    Structure

    宁可 + Sacrifice Clause, 也要 + Goal Clause

    Explanation

    宁可 (nìngkě) in compound clauses expresses a willingness to accept a hardship rather than compromise on something important. It appears in the first clause as a concession, while the second clause states the firm commitment. This pattern highlights the speaker's resolve and sacrifice.

    Examples

    • 他宁可放弃高薪工作,也要回家照顾父母。

      tā nìngkě fàngqì gāoxīn gōngzuò, yě yào huí jiā zhàogù fùmǔ.

      He'd rather give up a high-paying job to go home and take care of his parents.

    • 她宁可自己省吃俭用,也要供孩子上好学校。

      tā nìngkě zìjǐ shěng chī jiǎn yòng, yě yào gōng háizi shàng hǎo xuéxiào.

      She'd rather scrimp and save on herself to send her children to a good school.

    • 我宁可被批评,也不愿意说假话。

      wǒ nìngkě bèi pīpíng, yě bù yuànyì shuō jiǎhuà.

      I'd rather be criticized than tell a lie.

    Using 宁可 (nìngkě) for determined sacrifice in compound clauses | Chinese Grammar