HSK 7-9
自A自B
zì A zì B
Self A self B; doing both by oneself
Structure
自 + Monosyllabic Verb/Noun (A) + 自 + Monosyllabic Verb/Noun (B)
How it works
The '自A自B' structure is a four-character idiom pattern used to describe an action that is performed independently by the subject, often implying a sense of self-sufficiency, isolation, or satisfaction without external input. The characters occupying slots A and B are typically related verbs or nouns that form a cohesive action.
Examples
他晚年喜欢在书房里自斟自饮，享受那份宁静。
Tā wǎnnián xǐhuān zài shūfáng lǐ zì zhēn zì yǐn, xiǎngshòu nà fèn níngjìng.
In his later years, he enjoyed pouring and drinking by himself in the study, savoring that tranquility.
这部电影从剧本到导演都是他自编自导的。
Zhè bù diànyǐng cóng jùběn dào dǎoyǎn dōu shì tā zì biān zì dǎo de.
This movie, from the script to the directing, was both written and directed by him.
他经常在园子里自言自语，仿佛在和花草对话。
Tā jīngcháng zài yuánzi lǐ zì yán zì yǔ, fǎngfú zài hé huācǎo duìhuà.
He often talks to himself in the garden, as if having a conversation with the plants.
Common mistakes
Users sometimes attempt to pair two unrelated or antonymous verbs (e.g., 自买自卖), whereas the pattern usually requires verbs that naturally complement each other within a single process.
Tip
Memorize these as fixed idiomatic blocks (Chengyu-like). Common versions include 自言自语 (talking to oneself), 自作自受 (suffering from one's own actions), and 自给自足 (self-sufficient).
More HSK 7-9 grammar
See 自A自B in real Chinese
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