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    Chinese Grammar

    Marking a topic with 的话 (dehuà)

    HSK 4
    Condition
    Topic & Focus

    Structure

    Topic + 的话, + Comment Clause

    Explanation

    的话 (dehuà) is placed after a topic or condition to mean "as for" or "if we're talking about." It highlights the topic of discussion and sets the stage for a comment or further information about that topic.

    Examples

    • 天气的话，我觉得明天会好一点。

      Tiānqì de huà, wǒ juéde míngtiān huì hǎo yìdiǎn.

      As for the weather, I think tomorrow will be a bit better.

    • 价格的话，这家店比那家便宜多了。

      Jiàgé de huà, zhè jiā diàn bǐ nà jiā piányi duō le.

      As for the price, this store is much cheaper than that one.

    • 时间的话，我周六下午有空。

      Shíjiān de huà, wǒ zhōuliù xiàwǔ yǒu kòng.

      As for the time, I'm free on Saturday afternoon.

    Often Confused With

    Marking a topic with 的话 (dehuà) | Chinese Grammar