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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to leave behind' with 留下 (liúxià)

    Actions & Events
    Direction & Movement

    Structure

    Subject + 留下 + 了 + Object

    Explanation

    The verb 留下 (liúxià) means 'to leave behind,' 'to stay,' or 'to remain.' It can describe physically leaving something in a place, or abstractly leaving an impression or mark. It combines 留 (to stay/keep) with 下 (down/behind) to emphasize something remaining after departure.

    Examples

    • 他走的时候给我留下了一封信。

      Tā zǒu de shíhòu gěi wǒ liúxià le yī fēng xìn.

      When he left, he left me a letter.

    • 这部电影给我留下了很深的印象。

      Zhè bù diànyǐng gěi wǒ liúxià le hěn shēn de yìnxiàng.

      This movie left a very deep impression on me.

    • 你先走吧，把钥匙留下就行。

      Nǐ xiān zǒu ba, bǎ yàoshi liúxià jiù xíng.

      You go ahead; just leave the keys behind.

    Expressing 'to leave behind' with 留下 (liúxià) | Chinese Grammar