HSK 1
怎么 V
zěnme V
how to V
Structure
Subject + 怎么 + Verb + Object?
How it works
The word '怎么' (zěnme) is used before a verb to ask about the manner, method, or way of performing an action. It is the standard way to ask 'how' to do something in Chinese.
Examples
这个汉字怎么写？
Zhège Hànzì zěnme xiě?
How do you write this Chinese character?
你的名字怎么读？
Nǐ de míngzi zěnme dú?
How do you read your name?
去火车站怎么走？
Qù huǒchēzhàn zěnme zǒu?
How do I get to the train station?
Common mistakes
Placement of '怎么' after the verb. Unlike English 'How do you write?', in Chinese '怎么' must always come before the verb.
Tip
Think of '怎么' as replacing the 'instruction' or 'method' part of the sentence. If you want to ask for directions, always use '怎么 + 走' (zěnme zǒu).
More HSK 1 grammar
See 怎么 V in real Chinese
Import an article and tap any sentence using it. The explanation comes back about the sentence in front of you, not a textbook example.
Try InputDojo free