HSK 7-9
该X（就）X，该Y（就）Y
gāi X (jiù) X, gāi Y (jiù) Y
Do X when you should X, do Y when you should Y
Structure
该 + Verb 1 + (就) + Verb 1, 该 + Verb 2 + (就) + Verb 2
How it works
This structure is used to emphasize a balanced approach to life or work, suggesting that one should focus entirely on the appropriate activity for the current situation. It advocates for efficiency and distinct boundaries between different states, such as work and rest, or seriousness and humor.
Examples
我们应该劳逸结合，该学习就学习，该玩儿就玩儿。
Wǒmen yīnggāi láoyì jiéhé, gāi xuéxí jiù xuéxí, gāi wánr jiù wánr.
We should balance work and rest: study when it's time to study, and play when it's time to play.
处理这件事情要果断，该出手时就出手。
Chǔlǐ zhè jiàn shìqing yào guǒduàn, gāi chūshǒu shí jiù chūshǒu.
You must be decisive in handling this; take action when the time is right to take action.
生活不能太紧绷，该吃饭吃饭，该睡觉睡觉。
Shēnghuó bùnéng tài jǐnbēng, gāi chīfàn chīfàn, gāi shuìjiào shuìjiào.
Life shouldn't be too tense; eat when it's time to eat, and sleep when it's time to sleep.
Common mistakes
Mixing different verbs in the pattern (e.g., '该学习就玩儿') which loses the emphasis on doing the 'appropriate' thing for that specific context.
Tip
The '就' (jiù) is optional but adds a sense of decisiveness and natural flow to the sentence.
More HSK 7-9 grammar
See 该X（就）X，该Y（就）Y in real Chinese
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