Mastering Approximation in Chinese:差不多、左右、大概

Hello, language learners! Welcome back.

How do you talk about a number, time, or amount when you're not 100% sure? In English, we use "about" or "around," but in Chinese, you have three common options that are not perfectly interchangeable!

In this essential lesson, we will break down the grammar, placement, and nuance of three key approximation words:

左右 (Zuǒyòu) – "Around/More or Less": Learn the strict rule of placing this after a number for a precise estimate (e.g., "three o'clock or so").

大概 (Dàgài) – "Roughly/Probably": Discover how to use this adverb before the quantity for a rougher guess, or to express probability.

差不多 (Chàbùduō) – "Almost/The Same": Master this versatile word used for expressing similarity, completion, or that a quantity is "good enough."

Mastering these three words is crucial for making your daily Chinese conversation sound natural and precise.


👍 If this video helped you, please give it a thumbs up! 🔔 Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to our channel for more deep-dive Chinese lessons!

💬 YOUR CHALLENGE: Write three separate sentences in the comments below, one using 左右, one using 大概, and one using 差不多!

#ChineseGrammar #LearnChinese #MandarinLesson #AdvancedChinese #FluentChinese #大約 #差不多 #大概 #左右