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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "softly" or "in a low voice" with 轻声 (qīngshēng)

    Description & Modification
    Manner & Method

    Structure

    轻声 + Verb

    Explanation

    The adverb 轻声 (qīngshēng) means "softly," "gently," or "in a low voice." It is placed before a verb to indicate that the action is performed quietly or in a hushed manner. For example, 轻声说 means "to say softly" or "to speak in a low voice."

    Examples

    • 她轻声对孩子说了句晚安。

      Tā qīngshēng duì háizi shuōle jù wǎn'ān.

      She softly said goodnight to the child.

    • 他轻声叫了我的名字。

      Tā qīngshēng jiàole wǒ de míngzì.

      He called my name softly.

    • 图书馆里大家都在轻声交谈。

      Túshūguǎn lǐ dàjiā dōu zài qīngshēng jiāotán.

      Everyone in the library was speaking softly.

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