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    Chinese Grammar

    Understanding the character 牢 (láo) for 'firm' or 'prison'

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    Location & Position

    Explanation

    牢 (láo) can mean "firm" or "secure" as an adjective, but it also commonly appears as part of the noun 地牢 (dìláo, "dungeon") or 监牢 (jiānláo, "prison"). In classical and literary Chinese, 牢 on its own can refer to a prison or pen. Context determines whether it conveys firmness or confinement.

    Examples

    • 这个笼子很牢，动物跑不出去。

      Zhège lóngzi hěn láo, dòngwù pǎo bù chūqù.

      This cage is very sturdy; the animals can't get out.

    • 请把绳子系牢，别让它松开。

      Qǐng bǎ shéngzi jì láo, bié ràng tā sōngkāi.

      Please tie the rope tightly; don't let it come loose.

    • 犯人被关进了地牢里。

      Fànrén bèi guānjìnle dìláo lǐ.

      The prisoner was locked up in the dungeon.

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    Understanding the character 牢 (láo) for 'firm' or 'prison' | Chinese Grammar