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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'like' or 'prefer' with 喜欢 (xǐhuān)

    Wishes & Desires

    Structure

    Subject + 喜欢 + Object/Verb

    Explanation

    The verb 喜欢 (xǐhuān) means 'to like' or 'to prefer' and is one of the most commonly used verbs in Chinese. It can be followed by a noun or a verb phrase to express fondness, and it combines with 最 (most) to form the superlative 最喜欢 (favorite/like the most).

    Examples

    • 我喜欢周末和朋友一起喝咖啡。

      wǒ xǐhuān zhōumò hé péngyǒu yìqǐ hē kāfēi.

      I like having coffee with friends on weekends.

    • 你最喜欢哪种水果？

      nǐ zuì xǐhuān nǎ zhǒng shuǐguǒ?

      Which kind of fruit do you like the most?

    • 他不太喜欢吃辣的东西。

      tā bú tài xǐhuān chī là de dōngxī.

      He doesn't really like eating spicy food.

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    Expressing 'like' or 'prefer' with 喜欢 (xǐhuān) | Chinese Grammar