HSK 6
足以
zúyǐ
enough to
Structure
Subject + 足以 + Verb/Verb Phrase
How it works
The word '足以' is an adverb used to indicate that something is sufficient or adequate to reach a certain result or state. It is often followed by a verb or a verb phrase and typically appears in formal or written contexts. It highlights that a quantity, quality, or condition meets the necessary requirements for an action to occur.
Examples
他积累的经验足以胜任这项艰巨的任务。
Tā jīlěi de jīngyàn zúyǐ shèngrèn zhè xiàng jiānjù de rènwù.
The experience he has accumulated is enough to be competent for this arduous task.
事实足以证明他的清白。
Shìshí zúyǐ zhèngmíng tā de qīngbái.
The facts are sufficient to prove his innocence.
这点小挫折不足以让他放弃梦想。
Zhè diǎn xiǎo cuòzhé bù zúyǐ ràng tā fàngqì mèngxiǎng.
This small setback is not enough to make him give up his dream.
Common mistakes
Users often treat '足以' like '够' (gòu) by putting it after an adjective; however, '足以' must precede the verb describing the result.
Tip
In negative sentences, '足以' is almost always preceded by '不' to form '不足以' (not sufficient to). Use this pattern to express that a condition falls short of achieving a goal.
More HSK 6 grammar
See 足以 in real Chinese
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