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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'illegal' with 非法 (fēifǎ)

    Description & Modification
    Negation

    Structure

    非法 + 的 + Noun

    Explanation

    The adjective 非法 (fēifǎ) means 'illegal' or 'unlawful.' It is formed from 非 (not) and 法 (law), and is used to describe actions, activities, or entities that violate the law. It typically modifies nouns directly as 非法 + noun or appears as a predicate.

    Examples

    • 这家公司因非法经营被警方调查了。

      Zhè jiā gōngsī yīn fēifǎ jīngyíng bèi jǐngfāng diàochá le.

      This company was investigated by the police for illegal business operations.

    • 非法停车会被罚款，你最好找个正规停车场。

      Fēifǎ tíngchē huì bèi fákuǎn, nǐ zuìhǎo zhǎo gè zhèngguī tíngchēchǎng.

      Illegal parking will result in a fine; you'd better find a proper parking lot.

    • 警察在边境查获了大量非法物品。

      Jǐngchá zài biānjìng cháhuò le dàliàng fēifǎ wùpǐn.

      Police seized a large quantity of illegal goods at the border.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing 'illegal' with 非法 (fēifǎ) | Chinese Grammar