HSK 7-9
X就X个Y
X jiù X ge Y
If X then at least do it Y-ly
Structure
Verb/Adjective + 就 + Verb/Adjective + 个 + Result/Degree (Adjective/Noun)
How it works
This structure is used to express a sense of resignation, pragmatism, or a 'minimalist' resolution when faced with an unsatisfactory situation. It conveys that since a certain action (X) is going to happen anyway, one might as well do it in a way that is thorough, satisfying, or extreme (Y).
Examples
既然要买，买就买个痛快，别在这儿犹豫了。
Jìrán yào mǎi, mǎi jiù mǎi ge tòngkuài, bié zài zhèr yóuyù le.
Since you're going to buy it, just buy it to your heart's content and stop hesitating.
既然决定去旅行，走就走个彻底，去远一点的地方。
Jìrán juédìng qù lǚxíng, zǒu jiù zǒu ge chèdǐ, qù yuǎn yīdiǎn de dìfāng.
Since you've decided to travel, go all the way and visit somewhere far.
难得聚一回，喝就喝个尽兴，谁也不许提前走。
Nándé jù yī huí, hē jiù hē ge jìnxìng, shéi yě bùxǔ tíqián zǒu.
It's rare for us to get together, so since we are drinking, let's drink until we're fully satisfied; no one is allowed to leave early.
Common mistakes
Forgetting that the 'Y' component must describe a high degree or a clear result; using a neutral or weak adjective makes the structure sound unnatural.
Tip
Think of this as the Chinese equivalent of 'If you're going to do it, do it right' or 'Go big or go home.'
More HSK 7-9 grammar
See X就X个Y 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