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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'drinking' with 喝 (hē)

    Actions & Events

    Structure

    Subject + 喝 + Liquid

    Explanation

    The verb 喝 (hē) means 'to drink.' It is the standard verb used for consuming any liquid, including water, tea, coffee, soup, and medicine in liquid form. It is one of the most basic and frequently used verbs in daily Chinese.

    Examples

    • 天气太热了，我想喝一杯冰水。

      tiānqì tài rè le, wǒ xiǎng hē yì bēi bīng shuǐ.

      The weather is too hot; I want to drink a glass of ice water.

    • 你平时喜欢喝咖啡还是喝茶？

      nǐ píngshí xǐhuan hē kāfēi háishi hē chá?

      Do you usually prefer drinking coffee or tea?

    • 医生说感冒了要多喝热水。

      yīshēng shuō gǎnmào le yào duō hē rè shuǐ.

      The doctor said you should drink more hot water when you have a cold.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing 'drinking' with 喝 (hē) | Chinese Grammar