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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing commands with 命令 (mìnglìng)

    Actions & Events
    Obligation & Necessity

    Structure

    Subject + 命令 + Object + Verb Phrase

    Explanation

    命令 (mìnglìng) is a verb meaning "to command" or "to order," indicating that someone in authority directs others to carry out an action. It conveys a strong, authoritative tone and is used in military, governmental, and formal contexts. It can also function as a noun meaning "a command" or "an order."

    Examples

    • 老师命令学生们立刻安静下来。

      Lǎoshī mìnglìng xuéshēngmen lìkè ānjìng xiàlái.

      The teacher ordered the students to quiet down immediately.

    • 将军命令士兵们马上出发。

      Jiāngjūn mìnglìng shìbīngmen mǎshàng chūfā.

      The general ordered the soldiers to set out immediately.

    • 他被命令在三天内完成报告。

      Tā bèi mìnglìng zài sān tiān nèi wánchéng bàogào.

      He was ordered to finish the report within three days.

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    Expressing commands with 命令 (mìnglìng) | Chinese Grammar