HSK 7-9
姑且
gūqiě
For the time being; tentatively
Structure
Subject + 姑且 + Verb Phrase
How it works
The adverb '姑且' (gūqiě) is used to indicate a temporary action or a tentative decision made under specific circumstances. It suggests that while the current approach may not be ideal or final, it is accepted for the moment to allow for further developments.
Examples
我们姑且把这个问题放在一边，先讨论核心议题。
Wǒmen gūqiě bǎ zhège wèntí fàng zài yībiān, xiān tǎolùn héxīn yìtí.
Let's put this question aside for the time being and discuss the core issues first.
无论消息真假，我们姑且信之，提早做些准备。
Wúlùn xiāoxi zhēn jiǎ, wǒmen gūqiě xìn zhī, tízǎo zuò xiē zhǔnbèi.
Regardless of whether the news is true or false, let's believe it for now and make some preparations early.
这件事由于条件不成熟，姑且搁置起来。
Zhè jiàn shì yóuyú tiáojiàn bù chéngshú, gūqiě gēzhì qǐlái.
Since the conditions are not yet ripe, this matter will be shelved for the time being.
Common mistakes
Confusing '姑且' with '暂时'. While both mean 'temporarily', '姑且' implies a sense of concession or a 'let's just do this for now' attitude, whereas '暂时' is a neutral statement of duration.
Tip
Think of '姑且' as 'for now, as a compromise' or 'tentatively' when you aren't 100% committed to the long-term result.
More HSK 7-9 grammar
See 姑且 in real Chinese
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