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    Chinese Grammar

    Referring to "command" with 命 (mìng)

    Actions & Events
    Obligation & Necessity

    Structure

    命 + Person + Verb + Object

    Explanation

    The noun 命 (mìng) can mean "command," "order," or "life/fate" depending on context. When used as a verb meaning "to command," it describes ordering someone to carry out a task. In the pattern 命 + person + verb, it functions similarly to 命令, meaning "to order someone to do something."

    Examples

    • 将军命士兵立刻出发。

      Jiāngjūn mìng shìbīng lìkè chūfā.

      The general ordered the soldiers to set out immediately.

    • 国王命大臣去调查此事。

      Guówáng mìng dàchén qù diàochá cǐ shì.

      The king ordered the minister to investigate this matter.

    • 老板命手下准备好明天的会议材料。

      Lǎobǎn mìng shǒuxià zhǔnbèi hǎo míngtiān de huìyì cáiliào.

      The boss ordered his subordinates to prepare the meeting materials for tomorrow.

    Referring to "command" with 命 (mìng) | Chinese Grammar