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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "collect" or "receive" with 收 (shōu)

    Actions & Events
    Existence & Possession

    Structure

    Subject + 收 + Object

    Explanation

    收 (shōu) is a verb meaning "to collect," "to receive," or "to gather." It is a versatile word used in many contexts, from receiving money or goods to collecting taxes or fees. In trade contexts, 收关税 means "to impose or collect tariffs."

    Examples

    • 快递员今天收了三十多个包裹。

      Kuàidìyuán jīntiān shōu le sānshí duō gè bāoguǒ.

      The delivery person picked up over thirty packages today.

    • 政府每年都要收个人所得税。

      Zhèngfǔ měi nián dōu yào shōu gèrén suǒdéshuì.

      The government collects personal income tax every year.

    • 我刚收到你发的消息，马上回复你。

      Wǒ gāng shōu dào nǐ fā de xiāoxi, mǎshàng huífù nǐ.

      I just received the message you sent; I'll reply right away.

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    Expressing "collect" or "receive" with 收 (shōu) | Chinese Grammar