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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to speak' with 说话 (shuōhuà)

    Actions & Events
    Manner & Method

    Structure

    和/跟 + Person + 说话

    Explanation

    The verb 说话 (shuōhuà) means "to speak" or "to talk." It is a separable verb, meaning other elements can be inserted between 说 and 话. The pattern 和她说话 means "to talk to/with her."

    Examples

    • 上课的时候不要说话。

      Shàngkè de shíhou bú yào shuōhuà.

      Don't talk during class.

    • 她喜欢和朋友说话聊天。

      Tā xǐhuan hé péngyou shuōhuà liáotiān.

      She likes talking and chatting with friends.

    • 他说话的声音很好听。

      Tā shuōhuà de shēngyīn hěn hǎotīng.

      He has a very pleasant speaking voice.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing 'to speak' with 说话 (shuōhuà) | Chinese Grammar