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The modal particle 吧
The modal particle 吧
A modal particle (语气词) is a function word that adds additional semantic meanings to the sentence or emotionally colors it. It is usually placed at the end of a sentence.
HSK 1
new HSK 1
Particles
The
吧
particle has several functions. It can express: 1) suggestion and command. It can be translated as “let’s”, “let”.
Examples
我介绍我的丈夫
吧
Let me introduce you to my husband
wǒ jièshào wǒ de zhàngfu ba
快出门
吧
!
Exit a little faster!
kuài chūmén ba
Pay attention
The particle 吧 softens the tone of the statement by removing the commanding tone of the imperative sentence.
2) agreement. It is not usually translated in any way.
Examples
好,我问她一下
吧
!
Okay, I'll ask her!
hǎo wǒ wèn tā yíxià ba
好
吧
Okay
hǎo ba
3) guessing and assuming in a question sentence. It can be translated as “must be”, “most likely” or not translated at all.
Examples
你新生
吧
?
Are you a new student? (I think you're a new student, aren't you?)
nǐ shì xīnshēng ba
你要买水果
吧
?
Do you want to buy fruits? (You must want to buy fruits?)
nǐ yào mǎi shuǐguǒ ba
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