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    Chinese Grammar

    The Verb 弹 (tán): To Play an Instrument

    Actions & Events
    Manner & Method

    Structure

    弹 + Instrument/曲子

    Explanation

    弹 (tán) is a Chinese verb meaning "to play" a stringed or keyboard instrument, such as piano or guitar. Unlike 吹 (to blow, for wind instruments) or 拉 (to pull, for bowed instruments), 弹 specifically refers to plucking or pressing keys.

    Examples

    • 她每天晚上都弹一个小时的钢琴。

      Tā měitiān wǎnshang dōu tán yí ge xiǎoshí de gāngqín.

      She plays the piano for one hour every evening.

    • 你会弹吉他吗？教教我吧。

      Nǐ huì tán jítā ma? Jiāo jiāo wǒ ba.

      Can you play the guitar? Teach me!

    • 小时候妈妈逼我弹琴，现在我很感谢她。

      Xiǎoshíhou māma bī wǒ tánqín, xiànzài wǒ hěn gǎnxiè tā.

      When I was little, my mom forced me to practice piano; now I'm very grateful to her.

    Often Confused With

    The Verb 弹 (tán): To Play an Instrument | Chinese Grammar