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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "on the contrary" with 倒 (dào) as a verb

    HSK 4
    Comparison
    Emphasis

    Structure

    Subject + 倒 + Verb Phrase

    Explanation

    倒 (dào) can function as a verb carrying the meaning of "on the contrary" or "actually," used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or reverses a prior expectation. This usage emphasizes the surprising nature of the actual situation compared to what one might have assumed. It is common in both spoken and written Chinese.

    Examples

    • 这件衣服不贵，倒是质量很好。

      zhè jiàn yīfu bú guì, dàoshi zhìliàng hěn hǎo.

      This piece of clothing isn't expensive, but the quality is actually very good.

    • 他没生气，倒是觉得挺有意思的。

      tā méi shēngqì, dàoshi juéde tǐng yǒu yìsi de.

      He wasn't angry — on the contrary, he found it quite interesting.

    • 工作倒不累，就是离家太远了。

      gōngzuò dào bú lèi, jiùshì lí jiā tài yuǎn le.

      The work isn't tiring; it's just that it's too far from home.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing "on the contrary" with 倒 (dào) as a verb | Chinese Grammar