Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Using 非 (fēi) to express "not" or "non-"

    Negation

    Structure

    非 + Adjective/Noun

    Explanation

    非 (fēi) is a formal negation word meaning "not" or "non-." It is placed directly before a word to negate it, often forming compound expressions like 非法 (illegal) or 非正式 (informal). It is more literary than 不 and commonly appears in written Chinese.

    Examples

    • 这种行为是非法的，不能做。

      Zhè zhǒng xíngwéi shì fēifǎ de, bù néng zuò.

      This kind of behavior is illegal and must not be done.

    • 今天的会议是非正式的，大家随便聊。

      Jīntiān de huìyì shì fēi zhèngshì de, dàjiā suíbiàn liáo.

      Today's meeting is informal; everyone can chat freely.

    • 非本公司人员请勿入内。

      Fēi běn gōngsī rényuán qǐng wù rù nèi.

      Non-company personnel, please do not enter.

    Similar Grammar

    Often Confused With

    Using 非 (fēi) to express "not" or "non-" | Chinese Grammar