Learn how to express direction and duration using the Verb + 到 (dào) structure in Chinese
1 Basic Sentence Pattern
The Verb + 到 (dào) structure is used to express direction or destination when combined with motion verbs. It indicates that an action reaches or arrives at a specific place or point.
Direction and Movement Visualization
Complete Sentence: 妈妈要走到商场来。
(Mom wants to walk to the shopping mall.)
Common Motion Verbs
Motion Verbs are action words that involve physical movement. When combined with 到, they indicate movement toward a destination.
跑 (pǎo)
走 (zǒu)
飞 (fēi)
回 (huí)
Direction Indicators: 来 (lái) and 去 (qù)
来 (lái) and 去 (qù) are directional complements that indicate whether the movement is toward or away from the speaker.
来 (lái) – Toward Speaker
去 (qù) – Away from Speaker
Key point: 来/去 indicate the direction relative to the speaker’s position
2 Motion Verbs + 到 Examples
When motion verbs are used with 到, the structure expresses movement to a specific location. The basic pattern is: Verb + 到 + Place Word.
3 Expressing “Until” with 到
Unlock this content and all our premium features with a membership. Get access to graded HSK video lessons, grammar breakdowns, vocab lists, online tests, and more!
Already a member? Sign in.
Practice Exercises
Unlock this content and all our premium features with a membership. Get access to graded HSK video lessons, grammar breakdowns, vocab lists, online tests, and more!
Already a member? Sign in.