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    Chinese Grammar

    The adjective 非 (fēi) for "non-"

    Description & Modification
    Negation

    Structure

    非 + Noun/Adjective

    Explanation

    非 (fēi) is a prefix meaning "non-" or "not," used to negate or exclude a category. It attaches directly before a noun or adjective to form compound modifiers, such as 非英语 (non-English) or 非法 (illegal). It is widely used in formal, legal, and academic language.

    Examples

    • 这是一个非营利组织,专门帮助贫困地区的孩子。

      Zhè shì yī gè fēi yínglì zǔzhī, zhuānmén bāngzhù pínkùn dìqū de háizi.

      This is a nonprofit organization that specifically helps children in impoverished areas.

    • 非法停车会被罚款,你还是找个停车场吧。

      Fēifǎ tíngchē huì bèi fákuǎn, nǐ háishi zhǎo gè tíngchēchǎng ba.

      You'll get fined for illegal parking — you'd better find a parking lot.

    • 这些非正式的会议反而效率更高。

      Zhèxiē fēi zhèngshì de huìyì fǎn'ér xiàolǜ gèng gāo.

      These informal meetings are actually more efficient.

    The adjective 非 (fēi) for "non-" | Chinese Grammar