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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to be intentional' with 故意 (gùyì)

    Emphasis
    Manner & Method

    Structure

    故意 + Verb

    Explanation

    The adverb 故意 (gùyì) means 'intentionally' or 'on purpose.' It is placed before a verb to indicate that an action was done deliberately rather than accidentally. It is commonly used in both everyday speech and legal contexts to emphasize willful behavior.

    Examples

    • 他故意把音乐开得很大声，想引起邻居注意。

      Tā gùyì bǎ yīnyuè kāi de hěn dà shēng, xiǎng yǐnqǐ línjū zhùyì.

      He deliberately turned the music up very loud, wanting to get the neighbor's attention.

    • 你是不是故意不告诉我的？

      Nǐ shì bú shì gùyì bù gàosu wǒ de?

      Did you deliberately not tell me?

    • 她故意走得很慢，好欣赏沿途的风景。

      Tā gùyì zǒu de hěn màn, hǎo xīnshǎng yántú de fēngjǐng.

      She deliberately walked very slowly so she could enjoy the scenery along the way.

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    Expressing 'to be intentional' with 故意 (gùyì) | Chinese Grammar