HSK 4
以 N
yǐ N
with N
Structure
Subject + 以 + Method/Means/Basis + Verb
How it works
The preposition '以' (yǐ) is used in formal Chinese to indicate the means, method, basis, or status by which an action is performed. It is often equivalent to 'with,' 'by means of,' or 'using' in English. It frequently appears in fixed expressions or professional contexts to describe the manner or speed of an action.
Examples
我们应该以积极的态度面对生活。
Wǒmen yīnggāi yǐ jījí de tàidù miànduì shēnghuó.
We should face life with a positive attitude.
这个故事以真实事件为基础。
Zhège gùshì yǐ zhēnshí shìjiàn wéi jīchǔ.
This story is based on real events.
他以第一名的成绩考入了大学。
Tā yǐ dì-yī míng de chéngjì kǎorù le dàxué.
He entered university with the score of first place.
Common mistakes
In informal daily conversation, learners often use '以' where '用' (yòng) would be more natural; '以' is primarily reserved for written or formal spoken Chinese.
Tip
Think of '以' as a more formal version of '用'. It is very commonly used in the structure '以...为...' (take... as...), such as '以茶代酒' (replace wine with tea).
More HSK 4 grammar
See 以 N in real Chinese
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