HSK 6
难以 V
nányǐ V
hard to
Structure
Subject + 难以 + Verb (Formal, 2 characters)
How it works
The structure '难以' (nányǐ) is used before a disyllabic (two-character) formal verb to indicate that an action is difficult to carry out or achieve. It is a more formal and written alternative to '很难', often used in literature, news, or professional contexts.
Examples
这种复杂的情感难以用言语表达。
Zhè zhǒng fùzá de qínggǎn nányǐ yòng yányǔ biǎodá.
This kind of complex emotion is hard to express in words.
面前的景象让他难以置信。
Miànqián de jǐngxiàng ràng tā nányǐ zhìxìn.
The scene before him was hard to believe.
双方在核心问题上难以达成一致。
Shuāngfāng zài héxīn wèntí shàng nányǐ dáchéng yīzhì.
It is difficult for both parties to reach an agreement on core issues.
Common mistakes
Avoid using '难以' with single-character verbs (e.g., do not say '难以吃' or '难以做'); it must be followed by a formal two-character verb.
Tip
Most verbs used with '难以' are abstract or formal, such as 想象 (imagine), 接受 (accept), or 说明 (explain). Think of it as 'beyond the capacity of' rather than just physical difficulty.
More HSK 6 grammar
See 难以 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