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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing pity with 可怜 (kělián)

    Description & Modification

    Structure

    Subject + (好) + 可怜

    Explanation

    可怜 (kělián) is an adjective meaning "pitiful" or "pitiable," used to describe someone or something that evokes sympathy. It can also function as a verb meaning "to feel sorry for." It is common in spoken Chinese when expressing compassion.

    Examples

    • 那只流浪猫看起来好可怜，又瘦又脏。

      nà zhī liúlàng māo kàn qǐlái hǎo kělián, yòu shòu yòu zāng.

      That stray cat looks so pitiful — thin and dirty.

    • 别可怜他了，他自己不努力。

      bié kělián tā le, tā zìjǐ bù nǔlì.

      Stop feeling sorry for him — he doesn't put in any effort himself.

    • 大家都觉得那个小女孩很可怜。

      dàjiā dōu juéde nà gè xiǎo nǚhái hěn kělián.

      Everyone thinks that little girl is very pitiful.

    Often Confused With

    Expressing pity with 可怜 (kělián) | Chinese Grammar