很 with adjectives
Mandarin often uses 很 before adjectives in basic descriptive sentences, even when the meaning is fairly neutral.
Examples
Mandarin ChineseTranslation
今天很冷。Jīntiān hěn lěng.
Today is cold.
她很忙。Tā hěn máng.
She is busy.
这个方法很简单。Zhège fāngfǎ hěn jiǎndān.
This method is simple.
Pattern
subject/topic + 很 + adjective
How it works
Mandarin often uses 很 before adjectives in basic descriptive sentences, even when the meaning is fairly neutral. This pattern typically appears as subject/topic + 很 + adjective and becomes easier when you meet it again in short, readable examples.
What to notice
- In many simple descriptions, 很 helps the sentence sound complete rather than strongly emphatic.
- The pattern often works like a neutral descriptive frame.
Why it matters
Use small but powerful words that make simple Mandarin sound natural.
Use in context
This is one of the biggest beginner surprises, and it is much easier once you stop treating 很 as always meaning “very.”