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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to pass down' with 传 (chuán)

    Actions & Events
    Sequence & Order

    Structure

    Subject + 传 + 下来 / 传 + 给 + Recipient

    Explanation

    The verb 传 (chuán) means to pass down, hand down, or transmit from one generation to the next. It is used for heirlooms, traditions, knowledge, and stories that are inherited over time. The phrase 传下来 emphasizes that something has been handed down to the present.

    Examples

    • 这个手艺是从祖父那里传下来的。

      Zhège shǒuyì shì cóng zǔfù nàlǐ chuán xiàlái de.

      This craft was passed down from grandfather.

    • 这个故事在我们村子里传了好几代。

      Zhège gùshi zài wǒmen cūnzi lǐ chuán le hǎo jǐ dài.

      This story has been passed down for several generations in our village.

    • 中国人把很多传统节日一代代传了下来。

      Zhōngguó rén bǎ hěn duō chuántǒng jiérì yí dài dài chuán le xiàlái.

      Chinese people have passed down many traditional festivals from generation to generation.

    Expressing 'to pass down' with 传 (chuán) | Chinese Grammar