HSK 1
很
hěn
very
Structure
Subject + 很 + Adjective
How it works
In Chinese, '很' (hěn) is used as a linking word between a noun and an adjective. Unlike English, the verb 'to be' (shì) is generally not used before adjectives. While often translated as 'very,' in many contexts it is simply a grammatical requirement and carries a neutral meaning.
Examples
他很高。
Tā hěn gāo.
He is tall.
天气很热。
Tiānqì hěn rè.
The weather is hot.
汉语很难。
Hànyǔ hěn nán.
Chinese is difficult.
Common mistakes
Using 'shì' (是) with adjectives, such as saying 'Tā shì gāo' instead of 'Tā hěn gāo'.
Tip
If you want to emphasize 'very,' you should stress the word 'hěn' when speaking; otherwise, treat it as a silent partner that connects the subject to the description.
More HSK 1 grammar
See 很 in real Chinese
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