- 11 Feb, 2025
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Mastering HSK 4 Grammar: Understanding 以 N1 为 N2 (yǐ N1 wéi N2)
If you’re studying for HSK 4, learning how to use 以 N1 为 N2 is essential. This grammar structure is frequently used in both formal and spoken Chinese to express considering N1 as N2 or regarding N1 as N2.
In this post, we’ll break down its meaning, structure, and usage with clear examples to help you master it.
What Does 以 N1 为 N2 Mean?
The phrase 以 (yǐ) means “to use” or “to take”, and 为 (wéi) means “as” or “to be”. Together, 以 N1 为 N2 means “consider/treat N1 as N2” or “regard N1 as N2”.
This structure is commonly used to show attitudes, values, or principles in both everyday and formal language.
Structure:
以 + N1 + 为 + N2
Translation: Consider N1 as N2
This pattern is used to indicate that something or someone is treated, regarded, or considered in a certain way.
Examples and Explanation
- 我们应该以历史为镜子。
Pinyin: wǒmen yīnggāi yǐ lìshǐ wéi jìngzi.
Translation: We should take history as a mirror.
Explanation: This means that we should learn from history and use it as a guide for self-reflection. - 他一直以工作为最重要的事情。
Pinyin: tā yīzhí yǐ gōngzuò wéi zuì zhòngyào de shìqing.
Translation: He has always considered work as the most important thing.
Explanation: This sentence emphasizes that the person prioritizes work above all else. - 公司以客户的满意为目标。
Pinyin: gōngsī yǐ kèhù de mǎnyì wéi mùbiāo.
Translation: The company takes customer satisfaction as its goal.
Explanation: This highlights that customer satisfaction is the company’s main objective. - 他们以环保为核心理念。
Pinyin: tāmen yǐ huánbǎo wéi héxīn lǐniàn.
Translation: They take environmental protection as their core concept.
Explanation: This sentence shows that environmental protection is the central value of a group or organization.
Key Tips for Using 以 N1 为 N2
- Formal and Polite Tone: This structure is commonly used in speeches, official statements, and written articles.
- Shows Strong Emphasis: It emphasizes what is being valued, considered, or prioritized.
- Commonly Used in Business & Education: This phrase often appears in corporate missions, educational principles, and philosophical discussions.
Practice This Grammar!
Try translating this sentence:
“She considers her mother as her role model.”
Answer: 她以妈妈为榜样。
Pinyin: tā yǐ māmā wéi bǎngyàng.
Why Master 以 N1 为 N2 for HSK 4?
Understanding 以 N1 为 N2 will make your Mandarin more advanced and expressive. Whether discussing personal values, business goals, or historical lessons, this structure will help you sound more fluent and natural.
Conclusion
The 以 N1 为 N2 structure is powerful for expressing values and perspectives in Mandarin. By practising it with real-world examples, you’ll be able to use it confidently in conversations, writing, and HSK exams.
If you found this guide helpful, check out more HSK 4 grammar lessons to enhance your Mandarin skills!