HSK 3
V1 + 着 + V2
V1 + zhe + V2
V1-ing while V2-ing
Structure
Subject + V1 + 着 + (Object 1) + V2 + (Object 2)
How it works
This structure is used to describe two actions happening simultaneously, where the first verb (V1) indicates the state or manner in which the second verb (V2) is performed. In this pattern, V2 is usually the main action, while V1 provides background information or the 'how' of the situation.
Examples
老师站着讲课。
Lǎoshī zhànzhe jiǎngkè.
The teacher gives the lesson while standing.
很多人喜欢听着音乐跑步。
Hěnduō rén xǐhuān tīngzhe yīnyuè pǎobù.
Many people like to run while listening to music.
他笑着对我说话。
Tā xiàozhe duì wǒ shuōhuà.
He spoke to me with a smile (smiling).
Common mistakes
Do not confuse this with '一边...一边...'. While both show simultaneous actions, 'V1着V2' emphasizes the manner of the main action, whereas '一边...一边...' emphasizes two distinct activities being done at once.
Tip
Think of V1+着 as the 'accompanying state'. If you can translate it as 'doing V2 in a state of V1', you are using it correctly.
More HSK 3 grammar
See V1 + 着 + V2 in real Chinese
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