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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'under (circumstances)' with 下 (xià)

    Condition
    Location & Position

    Structure

    在 + Condition + 下

    Explanation

    The particle 下 (xià) can mean 'under' in the sense of 'under certain circumstances or conditions.' It is used after a noun phrase describing a situation, forming the pattern 在...情况下 or 在...条件下. This structure sets the scene or context for the main clause.

    Examples

    • 在这种情况下,我们只能推迟会议了。

      Zài zhè zhǒng qíngkuàng xià, wǒmen zhǐ néng tuīchí huìyì le.

      Under these circumstances, we have no choice but to postpone the meeting.

    • 在没有网络的条件下,这个软件根本用不了。

      Zài méiyǒu wǎngluò de tiáojiàn xià, zhège ruǎnjiàn gēnběn yòng bù liǎo.

      Without internet access, this software simply cannot be used.

    • 在大家共同努力下,项目终于按时完成了。

      Zài dàjiā gòngtóng nǔlì xià, xiàngmù zhōngyú àn shí wánchéng le.

      With everyone's joint efforts, the project was finally completed on time.

    Expressing 'under (circumstances)' with 下 (xià) | Chinese Grammar