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    Chinese Grammar

    Describing something as original with 原 (yuán)

    Description & Modification

    Structure

    原 + Noun

    Explanation

    The adjective 原 (yuán) means "original," "raw," or "primary." It is often used as a prefix in compound words to indicate the original or unaltered state of something, such as 原来 (originally) or 原因 (reason/cause). On its own, it can describe something in its natural or unprocessed form.

    Examples

    • 这道菜要用原汁原味的做法才好吃。

      Zhè dào cài yào yòng yuánzhī yuánwèi de zuòfǎ cái hǎochī.

      This dish tastes best when cooked in its original, authentic way.

    • 你能把这篇文章翻译成原文吗？

      Nǐ néng bǎ zhè piān wénzhāng fānyì chéng yuánwén ma?

      Can you translate this article back into the original text?

    • 请保持食材的原味，不要加太多调料。

      Qǐng bǎochí shícái de yuánwèi, bùyào jiā tài duō tiáoliào.

      Please preserve the original flavor of the ingredients and don't add too many seasonings.

    Often Confused With

    Describing something as original with 原 (yuán) | Chinese Grammar