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    Chinese Grammar

    Describing something as basic or fundamental with 基本 (jīběn)

    Degree & Intensity
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    基本 + Noun / 基本 + 上

    Explanation

    基本 (jīběn) means "basic," "fundamental," or "essential" and describes something that forms the foundation or core of a larger whole. It can function as an adjective modifying nouns like 基本权利 (basic rights) or as an adverb meaning "basically" or "essentially." It emphasizes what is most important or foundational.

    Examples

    • 学好基本语法是学外语的第一步。

      Xué hǎo jīběn yǔfǎ shì xué wàiyǔ de dì yī bù.

      Mastering basic grammar is the first step in learning a foreign language.

    • 这个方案基本上没有问题，可以执行。

      Zhège fāng'àn jīběn shàng méiyǒu wèntí, kěyǐ zhíxíng.

      This plan basically has no problems and can be carried out.

    • 每个公民都有基本的权利和义务。

      Měi gè gōngmín dōu yǒu jīběn de quánlì hé yìwù.

      Every citizen has basic rights and obligations.

    Similar Grammar

    Describing something as basic or fundamental with 基本 (jīběn) | Chinese Grammar