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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to take a bath' with the separable verb 洗澡 (xǐzǎo)

    Actions & Events

    Structure

    洗 + (Modifier) + 澡

    Explanation

    洗澡 (xǐzǎo) is a separable verb meaning 'to take a bath' or 'to shower.' Because it is separable, other elements like aspect particles or duration phrases can be inserted between 洗 and 澡. For example, 洗了个澡 means 'took a bath.'

    Examples

    • 她洗了个热水澡，感觉舒服多了。

      Tā xǐle ge rè shuǐ zǎo, gǎnjué shūfu duō le.

      She took a hot bath and felt much better.

    • 你先洗个澡再吃饭吧。

      Nǐ xiān xǐ ge zǎo zài chīfàn ba.

      Take a shower first before eating.

    • 他洗了半天澡还没出来。

      Tā xǐle bàntiān zǎo hái méi chūlái.

      He's been in the shower forever and still hasn't come out.

    Expressing 'to take a bath' with the separable verb 洗澡 (xǐzǎo) | Chinese Grammar