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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing hard-won achievement with 容易 (róngyì) in bound forms

    HSK 4
    Degree & Intensity
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    好不容易 + Accomplished Action

    Explanation

    In compound expressions, 容易 (róngyì) can appear in set phrases that emphasize the effort required to achieve something. The bound form reinforces the idiomatic meaning of difficulty overcome, rather than ease. These expressions are commonly used to describe achievements that required perseverance.

    Examples

    • 这个成绩来之不容易，大家都付出了很多。

      Zhège chéngjì lái zhī bù róngyì, dàjiā dōu fùchū le hěn duō.

      This achievement did not come easily; everyone put in a lot of effort.

    • 他好不容易通过了考试，高兴得哭了。

      Tā hǎo bù róngyì tōngguò le kǎoshì, gāoxìng de kū le.

      He finally passed the exam and cried tears of joy.

    • 得来不容易的东西才会更加珍惜。

      Dé lái bù róngyì de dōngxi cái huì gèngjiā zhēnxī.

      Things that are hard to come by are cherished even more.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing hard-won achievement with 容易 (róngyì) in bound forms | Chinese Grammar