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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "so-called" with 所谓 (suǒwèi) in compound sentences

    HSK 4
    Emphasis
    Topic & Focus

    Structure

    所谓 + 的 + Noun, + Clause

    Explanation

    所谓 (suǒwèi) appears in bound clauses to introduce a concept or term being defined or questioned. It can carry a neutral explanatory meaning or convey doubt and sarcasm about the term that follows.

    Examples

    • 他所谓的惊喜，不过是请大家吃了顿饭。

      Tā suǒwèi de jīngxǐ, búguò shì qǐng dàjiā chī le dùn fàn.

      His so-called surprise was nothing more than treating everyone to a meal.

    • 她终于明白了所谓的自由意味着什么。

      Tā zhōngyú míngbái le suǒwèi de zìyóu yìwèizhe shénme.

      She finally understood what so-called freedom really means.

    • 他们所谓的合作根本没有任何诚意。

      Tāmen suǒwèi de hézuò gēnběn méiyǒu rènhé chéngyì.

      Their so-called cooperation had no sincerity whatsoever.

    Similar Grammar

    Expressing "so-called" with 所谓 (suǒwèi) in compound sentences | Chinese Grammar