Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'serious' with 认真 (rènzhēn)

    Degree & Intensity
    Description & Modification
    Manner & Method

    Structure

    Subject + 很 + 认真 / 认真 + 地 + Verb

    Explanation

    The adjective 认真 (rènzhēn) means "serious" or "earnest" and describes a careful, attentive attitude. It can be modified by 很 as a predicate (他很认真) or used adverbially with 地 to describe how an action is performed. For example, 认真地听 means "to listen carefully."

    Examples

    • 他工作很认真,老板很满意。

      Tā gōngzuò hěn rènzhēn, lǎobǎn hěn mǎnyì.

      He works very conscientiously, and his boss is very satisfied.

    • 你应该认真地听老师讲课。

      Nǐ yīnggāi rènzhēn de tīng lǎoshī jiǎngkè.

      You should listen carefully to the teacher's lecture.

    • 她是一个认真负责的人。

      Tā shì yí gè rènzhēn fùzé de rén.

      She is a serious and responsible person.

    Expressing 'serious' with 认真 (rènzhēn) | Chinese Grammar