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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to act' with 作 (zuò)

    Actions & Events
    Manner & Method

    Structure

    作 + 为 + Role/Identity

    Explanation

    The verb 作 (zuò) means 'to act,' 'to do,' or 'to serve as.' It frequently appears in the compound 作为 (zuòwéi), meaning 'to act as' or 'in the capacity of.' On its own, 作 is more literary and is common in formal or written Chinese.

    Examples

    • 这部电影是他作的曲。

      Zhè bù diànyǐng shì tā zuò de qǔ.

      He composed the music for this movie.

    • 不要无病呻吟、故作姿态。

      Bù yào wúbìng shēnyín, gùzuò zītài.

      Don't moan about imaginary problems or put on airs.

    • 他年轻时曾作过几首诗。

      Tā niánqīng shí céng zuò guò jǐ shǒu shī.

      He wrote a few poems when he was young.

    Expressing 'to act' with 作 (zuò) | Chinese Grammar