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    Chinese Grammar

    Using 紧 (jǐn) to express 'tightness'

    Degree & Intensity
    Manner & Method

    Structure

    紧紧 + 地 + Verb / Verb + 得 + 紧

    Explanation

    The adjective 紧 (jǐn) means 'tight' or 'firm,' describing something held closely or securely. It often appears in its reduplicated adverb form 紧紧 (jǐnjǐn), meaning 'tightly,' to emphasize the intensity of a gripping or holding action. It commonly modifies verbs like 抓住 (to grab) or 抱住 (to hold).

    Examples

    • 她紧紧抓住妈妈的手，不肯松开。

      Tā jǐnjǐn zhuāzhù māma de shǒu, bù kěn sōngkāi.

      She held tightly onto her mother's hand and refused to let go.

    • 这条裤子太紧了，我穿不上。

      Zhè tiáo kùzi tài jǐn le, wǒ chuān bù shàng.

      These pants are too tight; I can't put them on.

    • 他紧紧抱住孩子，生怕弄丢了。

      Tā jǐnjǐn bàozhù háizi, shēngpà nòng diū le.

      He held the child tightly, afraid of losing him.

    Using 紧 (jǐn) to express 'tightness' | Chinese Grammar